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 Washington State (WA), 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 behaviors such as speeding, reckless driving, tailgating, and illegal passing can lead to traffic infractions, which may result in fines and points on a driver's license. More serious offenses, such as reckless driving, can be charged as gross misdemeanors, potentially leading to significant fines, driver's license suspension, and even jail time. If aggressive driving escalates to the point where another person is threatened or harmed, charges could include assault or vehicular assault, especially if a vehicle is used as a weapon. These charges can carry severe penalties, including substantial fines and imprisonment. Washington State law enforcement agencies and courts take aggressive driving and road rage incidents seriously due to the risks they pose to public safety.