Mass. Weighs Getting Tougher with Road Rage, High-Speed Drivers

Road rage incidents are driving some lawmakers to get tougher on angry and reckless motorists.

The Legislature’s transportation committee will consider a bill designed to crack down on a range of bad behavior on the roads — which could include anything from tailgating to unnecessary honking to making threats or obscene gestures.

Under the legislation introduced by state Representative Harold Naughton, those convicted of road rage could be sentenced to up to 2 1/2 years in jail, be required to attend anger management classes and have their licenses revoked for up to five years.

The committee is also considering bills this week that would toughen the penalties for drag racing and for involvement in high-speed chases with police.