Road rage incidents are escalating, with Florida ranking second in the nation for road rage-related shootings. Tampa, in particular, has witnessed a concerning surge in such incidents. As a driver, it is crucial to comprehend the implications of road rage and the potential legal consequences associated with aggressive behaviors on the road.
Road Rage Laws in Tampa
While there isn’t a specific law explicitly targeting road rage, many behaviors associated with road rage are illegal. Recognizing these actions can aid in avoiding legal troubles. Some of the common road rage behaviors include:
- Speeding
- Yelling or gesturing at other drivers
- Tailgating and aggressive racing
- Weaving between lanes
- Excessive honking
- Disregarding traffic signals and signs
Speeding
Speeding, a common manifestation of road rage, carries varying consequences. Exceeding the speed limit by 10 mph may result in a ticket. However, surpassing the limit by more than 30 mph can lead to misdemeanor charges, escalating to a felony if exceeding 50 mph.
Harassment
Road rage often involves harassment, ranging from gestures to tailgating. While a single gesture may not lead to an arrest, persistent harassment can result in legal consequences. If reported to law enforcement, actions such as hand gestures and tailgating may lead to serious trouble.
Assault
Some road rage incidents extend beyond the confines of a vehicle, leading to assault charges. Drivers leaving their vehicles to intimidate or harm others may face assault charges. If the assault involves a potentially lethal object, it may escalate to aggravated assault.
Assault with a Deadly Weapon: A Grave Offense
As road rage shootings become more prevalent, law enforcement may consider a vehicle as a deadly weapon if used to harm others. Even without causing harm, using a vehicle aggressively may lead to assault with a deadly weapon charge.
Reckless Driving
Road rage is often intertwined with reckless driving, constituting violations of Florida traffic laws. While reckless driving itself is against the law, arrests hinge on specific circumstances, such as causing serious bodily harm to another road user, resulting in potential felony charges.
Legal Consequences
Even without an arrest, road rage incidents may result in tickets and points on one’s driving record. Misdemeanors and felonies amplify the fines and consequences. A first-time traffic felony can lead to arrest and prison time, while misdemeanors may result in jail time or driving privilege revocation.
Three-in-36 Months Law
Florida’s Three-in-36 Months Law intensifies consequences for repeat offenders. If a driver causes an accident resulting in serious injury or death, followed by two more accidents within 36 months, completion of a driver improvement course within 90 days becomes mandatory. Failure to comply leads to license revocation.
This post was written by a professional at Ticket Shield. Ticket Shield understands that life can sometimes throw unexpected challenges your way. That’s why Ticket Shield is here to help you navigate through legal roadblocks when you need it most. Their team of experienced lawyers specializes in a range of traffic-related legal matters, ensuring you have the best defense possible. Types of teams available:
- Traffic Ticket Lawyer
- DUI Lawyer
- Speeding Ticket Lawyer
- Reckless Driving Lawyer
- Suspended License Lawyer
- Red Light Ticket Lawyer
- Stop Sign Ticket Lawyer
- Seat Belt Ticket Lawyer
Don’t let traffic tickets or driving-related charges weigh you down. Contact our Traffic Ticket Attorney in Kendall, FL today for a free consultation, and let Ticket Shield be your shield in the legal arena. Your peace of mind is their priority!
LAWYERIST 
Leave a comment