When Does Road Rage Lead to Criminal Charges in Charlotte County?

Road rage incidents are increasing throughout Charlotte County, the State of Florida, and the entire nation. According to Pew Research Center, about half of all Americans say people in their area are driving more dangerously compared to before the COVID-19 pandemic. Road rage can lead to serious criminal charges in Charlotte County – and you may face much more than a traffic ticket. If you find yourself in this situation, you might want to have a conversation with a Fort Myers criminal defense attorney.

Motorcyclists Arrested After Alleged Road Rage Incident in Charlotte County 

In February of 2025, the Sheriff’s Office of Charlotte County announced that they had arrested two members of a motorcycle club after an alleged road incident in Punta Gorda. This incident involved the discharge of firearms, although no one was injured. The incident occurred on US 41, and the Gilchrist Bridge was closed for several hours while investigators surveyed the scene. Eventually, police located several motorcycles at a nearby gas station.

Since these bikes allegedly matched the description of those involved in the bridge incident, police moved in and arrested the bikers. Police then conducted a search, discovering various weapons and quantities of marijuana in the vests and vehicles of these individuals. The recovered weapons included brass knuckles, a knife, and several firearms. This search led to the arrest of two motorcyclists. Police are continuing to investigate the incident.

Potential Charges You Might Face After a Road Rage Incident 

If you got into an accident and you did not threaten or assault other motorists, you will likely avoid criminal charges. However, you could face various traffic violations, including reckless driving, speeding, or DUI.

If you become violent or threatening, you could face much more serious charges. If you utter a threat and you have an apparent ability to carry out that threat, you may face assault charges. If you physically harm or attempt to harm another motorist, you could face battery charges.

Perhaps the most serious road rage charges are reserved for those who discharge or brandish firearms. This may be prosecuted as a felony, even if you have the right to possess and carry firearms. That being said, you could be justified in using or brandishing your firearm in self-defense. For example, another motorist might approach you after a crash while brandishing a firearm. In this case, you may be legally justified in using deadly force.

Can a Defense Attorney in Charlotte County Help With Road Rage Charges? 

A defense attorney in Charlotte County may be able to help if you’re facing criminal charges after a road rage incident. As this recent case illustrates, road rage charges can become especially serious if you discharge a weapon during a traffic altercation. However, you might also face charges for much more minor threats or physical assaults. To learn more about a potential defense strategy, consider scheduling a consultation with The Foley & Wilson Law Firm.

Sources: 

ccsoblog.org/2025/02/16/two-members-of-motorcycle-club-arrested-as-shooting-investigation-continues/

gulfcoastnewsnow.com/article/road-rage-shooting-charlotte-county-investigation/63821680