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 West Virginia (WV), 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 driving, tailgating, and illegal passing are traffic violations that can result in fines, points on a driver's license, and potentially license suspension. More serious offenses, such as using a vehicle to commit an assault (considered assault with a deadly weapon), can lead to significant criminal charges, including potential jail or prison time. West Virginia Code §17C-5-3 defines reckless driving as driving with 'willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property,' and this can encompass many road rage behaviors. Penalties for reckless driving can include fines, jail time, and license suspension. It is important for drivers to understand that while 'road rage' is not a standalone offense, the actions stemming from it can have serious legal consequences.