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Aggressive Truck Driving in Virginia: How to Spot the Warning Signs

We’ve all heard the term aggressive driving, but what exactly does it mean? Not all states define aggressive driving the same way, but the common consensus is that, to be considered aggressive, a driver will have to exhibit several different behaviors of poor driving. For example, speeding alone would not be considered aggressive—but speeding, not signaling and dangerous merging would.

So when is a trucker an aggressive trucker, rather than just a poor driver? Check for these common signs of aggressive truck driving in Virginia:

• Tailgating
• Passing in the right lane
• Ignoring traffic signals
• Dangerously close contact with other vehicles
• Sudden stops
• Cutting vehicles off
• Speeding
• Changing lanes without signaling
• Failure to check mirrors before merging

Speeding and tailgating are doubly dangerous in an 18-wheeler. Due to its size and weight, it can be much harder to stop in an emergency—causing greater damage to the vehicle and passengers it slams into.

Here are a few specific factors that you can report to the authorities—and how to handle them when you’re sharing the road:

• Exasperated or impatient gestures. If you are riding alongside the truck, take a look into the cab. Is the driver throwing his hands up, leaning forward, or making jerky, frustrated movements?
• Mishandled speed. Aggressive drivers will often speed when a light is green, resulting in slamming on the brakes when they have to come to a stop.
• Aggressive city driving. Failing to yield to pedestrians, creeping up at stoplights, honking behind slower vehicles and lack of proper signaling are all signs of an aggressive driver.
• Look for the phone number on the vehicle. Truck drivers are required to have a sign on the back of their vehicle with a number you can call to report their driving. Do not be afraid to do so—and note if the sign is dirty or illegible.
• Get advice from a DC trucking accident attorney. Many personal injury firms do not have experience with trucking cases. Due to regulations, unions, and trucking companies, a truck accident case can differ greatly from an ordinary Virginia car accident. Call Shevlin Smith today to get the advantage of our attorneys’ experience.

If someone you love has been injured by an aggressive truck driver, you need advice from an experienced Fairfax truck accident attorney. Contact Shevlin Smith at (703) 591-0067 for more information—including a free consultation on your case.

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