There is not a criminal offense called road rage in most states, but there are criminal offenses for the aggressive, reckless driving motivated by anger, rage, and frustration that often leads to motor vehicle accidents and dangerous or deadly confrontations between drivers in road rage incidents. Aggressive driving behavior may also lead to traffic tickets and driver’s license suspensions for related offenses such as speeding, reckless driving, tailgating, lane blocking, illegal passing, racing, and assault with a deadly weapon (motor vehicle). And some states have passed laws that include significant fines and potential jail or prison time for such reckless driving.

In Iowa, while there is no specific criminal offense termed 'road rage,' behaviors typically associated with road rage can fall under various traffic and criminal laws. Aggressive driving actions such as speeding, reckless driving, tailgating, and illegal passing are traffic offenses that can result in citations, fines, and potentially points on a driver's license, which could lead to suspension. More serious incidents may be classified as reckless driving, which is a more severe offense and can carry heavier penalties including fines and imprisonment. If aggressive driving escalates to the point of physical confrontation or the use of a vehicle as a weapon, it could lead to charges of assault or even assault with a deadly weapon. These offenses can result in significant legal consequences, including jail or prison time. Iowa law enforcement agencies and courts treat these matters seriously due to the potential harm to public safety.