DFW has some of the worst road rage in the country. TxDOT ranked the I-35/I-30 interchange as the #2 road rage hotspot in Texas for 2025. Here's how to handle it.
If someone is following you aggressively:
- Do NOT go home. You don't want them to know where you live.
- Drive to the nearest police station. Closest DPD substations: Jack Evans HQ (1400 S. Lamar), Northeast (9915 E. Northwest Hwy), Northwest (9801 Harry Hines).
- Call 911 while driving. Texas law allows phone use to call 911 while driving. Give them your location, vehicle description, their vehicle description.
- Stay in your car with doors locked. The car is your protection.
- Do NOT engage. No gestures, no eye contact, no rolling down windows.
Your legal rights:
- Texas Penal Code 22.07 — Terroristic Threat: If someone threatens you with violence during road rage, it's a Class B misdemeanor.
- Texas Penal Code 42.03 — Obstructing Highway: Brake-checking or boxing someone in is illegal.
- Texas Penal Code 9.31-9.32 — Self-defense: You can use force (including deadly force) if you reasonably believe it's immediately necessary to protect yourself from another's use of unlawful deadly force. Castle Doctrine extends to your occupied vehicle in Texas.
Dashcam is your best witness. A front/rear dashcam provides evidence. Recommended: Viofo A129 Pro Duo (~$170). Records front and rear simultaneously.
Sources:
- TxDOT — 2025 Road Rage Report
- Texas Penal Code 22.07, 42.03, 9.31, 9.32
- DPD substation locations (dallaspolice.net)
De-escalate. Always de-escalate. Your ego is not worth your life.
Castle Doctrine applying to your vehicle is important to know. But the best defense is always to disengage and drive away if possible.