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 Ohio, while there is no specific criminal offense termed 'road rage,' behaviors typically associated with road rage can lead to criminal charges under various traffic and criminal statutes. Aggressive driving behaviors such as speeding, reckless operation of a vehicle, tailgating, and improper passing are traffic offenses that can result in citations, fines, and points on a driver's license. More serious incidents may be charged under Ohio's OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired) laws if the driver is under the influence, or as assault or vehicular assault if the aggressive driving results in harm to another person. Ohio law also includes specific penalties for reckless operation, with potential jail time for offenders. Repeat offenses or particularly dangerous driving can lead to driver's license suspensions or revocations. It's important to note that the consequences for these offenses can be severe, including significant fines and the possibility of jail or prison time, especially if the aggressive driving leads to an accident or injury.
