Aggressive Driving by Teen Motorists
Aggressive driving is a problem that is all too common on the roads lately, and teen motorists are not exempt from this issue.
Aggressive driving
Aggressive driving is considered by most to be angry driving such as what happens with road rage, however aggressive driving can involve being reckless such as:
• Speeding
• Running red lights
• Cutting another vehicle off, or
• Following too close
Road rage on the other hand, is usually angry or violent actions behind the wheel that are targeted at a single motorist.
More than inexperience
Being an inexperienced driver can lead to an increase in accidents due to the inability to make proper judgements when behind the wheel. This is one reason why a high number of wrecks implicate young drivers. Another cause of collisions involving teens is aggressive driving. Some teens may exhibit aggressive driving due to:
• Arrogance. Believing they are better drivers than they really are.
• Thrill. The rush of driving fast or taking chances.
• Showing off. Either for friends in the car or the attractive driver in a vehicle nearby.
• Stress. Being late for classes or a job.
• Inconsideration. Not being thoughtful or kind to others on the road.
Criminal charges
Aggressive driving is known by Utah state law as reckless driving. Utah Code 41-6a-528 states: “A person is guilty of reckless driving who operates a vehicle: in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property; or while committing three or more moving traffic violations ( . . . ) in a series of acts occurring within a single continuous period of driving covering three miles or less in total distance.” Reckless or aggressive driving is a class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Things can escalate quickly
Beyond criminal charges, aggressive driving can also escalate into a dangerous incident of road rage, either by the reckless driver or other motorists on the road. To prevent charges or road rage, it is imperative to constantly obey traffic laws and treat fellow motorists respectfully.
