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How Can Road Rage Incidents Affect Auto Insurance Rates?

Aug 10, 2022

Auto Insurance

How Can Road Rage Incidents Affect Auto Insurance Rates?

Road rage is becoming a significant problem all across the country. Colorado seems the epicenter, routinely ranking among the top states for road rage violence per capita. This article will shed some light on the consequences of driving aggressively and its negative impact on you and everyone else on the road.

What Is Known as Road Rage?

Road rage is defined as aggressive or furious driving conduct. In an attempt to intimidate or vent irritation, these actions include threats of violence or risky driving practices directed toward other drivers.

How Can Road Rage Lead to Accidents?

Intense anger can limit the focus of an individual and cause them to make reckless decisions. This impairs judgment and results in purposefully neglecting traffic safety regulations resulting in increased potential for accidents.

What Is the Difference Between Road Rage and Aggressive Driving?

Aggressive driving is a traffic offense, but when the intent becomes purposefully endangering others by using your car as a weapon, it is classified as road rage and a criminal offense.

Legal Consequences of Road Rage

A road rage collision can result in criminal penalties and civil restitution. Additionally, your insurance premiums will increase significantly.

How to Reduce Your Insurance Rates?

Unfortunately, road rage affects everyone, but there are several ways of reducing your monthly premiums and deductibles. These include:

  • Taking defensive driving courses
  • Comparing insurance companies
  • Installing a car alarm
  • Opting out of add-ons
  • Maintaining a clean driving record

FAQs About Road Rage

  • Does drinking cause road rage?

    Most accidents involving road rage do not include a drunk driver.
  • Why are road rage-related accidents rising so quickly?

    According to the NHSTA, there's an indication that increased traffic after covid has impacted the increase of these accidents.
  • How can I avoid aggressive drivers?

    Simply not reacting to the aggressor is the best course of action. Let them pass or pull into a busy gas station for a few minutes.

Road Rage's Impact on Car Insurance

The increased number of accident claims submitted to insurance raises the rates for all drivers. However, if you are found responsible for an accident due to road rage, expect your premiums to increase drastically. You may have to file for SR-22 insurance, which will increase your average premiums by $1,300 yearly.

What Are the Common Types of Road Rage?

There are several common behaviors associated with road rage. A few examples include:

  • Longhorn honks
  • Swerving
  • Tailgating
  • Brake checking
  • Shouting profanities

What Can Road Rage Incidents Lead To?

  • Increased insurance premiums
  • Serious bodily harm or even death
  • Suspension of license
  • Criminal and civil charges

In conclusion, road rage is an epidemic that affects us all to varying degrees. If you feel an aggressive driver is targeting you, it's best not to react and do what you can to let the aggressor proceed on their way.

Spotlight Insurance Agency Can Help You!

Contrarily, if you feel a sudden urge to - œget back at -  the person who cut you off in traffic, it's best to pull over and take a few deep breaths. Are you looking an auto insurance? If yes, contact our team here at Spotlight Insurance Agency today to learn about your options. 


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