Although the term has become synonymous with aggressive drivers who take their frustrations out on other motorists, the term road rage is a recent addition to the American lexicon. The term was coined by a Los Angeles news station after a string of shootings occurred on freeways throughout the city. Road rage is now referenced to when a driver commits moving traffic offenses so as to endanger other people or property. Usually, road rage is done out of anger or spite for another driver.
Though the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, there is a difference between road rage and aggressive driving. The former is a criminal offense while the second is a traffic violation. Still, according to statistics, 66% of traffic fatalities are caused by people who are driving aggressively. Males under the age of 19 are most likely to exhibit road rage.
The Sun-Sentinel reports that a fatal car crash in Taramac has left two teenagers dead.
The crash occurred just before 10 p.m. on Saturday on North State Road 7 according to the Broward County Sheriff’s Office.
Crystal McLeod was speeding along the highway when she aggressively changed lanes. This caused her to lose control of her vehicle. She overcorrected, causing her to steer sideways. She then crashed into a pole, ripping the car in two.
The driver and four passengers were taken to Broward Health Medical Center. There, McLeod and a 14-year-old old passenger succumbed to their injuries. The two other passengers remained in serious condition.