When people get frustrated or angry, it can be easy to lose control. In some serious cases, a momentary lapse in judgment can lead to aggravated assault charges. Let’s discuss some of the common causes of aggravated assault, and who is most likely to be involved in this type of incident.
What is Aggravated Assault?
Florida separates assault into two categories: simple and aggravated. Simple assault occurs when a threat is made, either verbally or physically, to a victim, but does not cause serious physical injury. This is a misdemeanor offense.
Aggravated assault, however, is more serious.
The assault may be considered an enhanced aggravated assault if:
- There was a deadly weapon present or used at the time of the altercation
- There were some aggravating factors present that made the crime more serious
- The assault was committed at the same time another crime was taking place
Like simple assault, aggravated assault can take place even if there was no physical contact between the agitator and victim. For example, if the offender pointed a weapon at someone and threatened to harm them, but did not actually use the weapon. This can still be considered aggravated assault.
Common Causes of Aggravated Assault
There are numerous events that can lead to an aggravated assault altercation.
Drugs and Alcohol
A risk factor for aggravated assault and other violent crimes is drugs and alcohol. For a significant portion of people, drugs and alcohol can lead to an increase in aggressive behavior. Not only this but drugs and alcohol tend to affect one’s ability to:
- Think rationally
- Control impulses
- Consider consequences
Here’s a statistic that showcases the connection: over 25% of aggravated assaults are alcohol-related.
Family Conflict
Depending on the circumstances of the altercation, this may be considered aggravated assault or domestic violence.
Sometimes, family tensions can escalate into full-blown arguments. If topics are broached that some people are uncomfortable with, or bring up disagreements, this can lead to verbal and/or physical disputes.
Road Rage
Even the most even-tempered people report that when they get behind the wheel, they can turn into a different person. Road rage is a real driving risk. If two drivers are experiencing road rage, they may get combative and leave their vehicle.
Avoid road rage turning into an assault by:
- Not making eye contact with other drivers
- Not rolling your window down to shout threats at other drivers
- Using your horn responsibly
- Keeping a safe distance from other cars
If an enraged driver approaches your vehicle, keep your window closed, your car doors locked, and don’t engage. If you feel threatened, call the police.
Who is Most Likely to Commit Aggravated Assault?
While anyone may commit, or be the victim of, aggravated assault, there are some common risk factors for people who will be more likely to be involved in a physical altercation.
Interesting facts include:
- The majority of aggravated assaults occur between people ages 20-29.
- Most aggravated assaults occur between males.
- Individuals at entertainment venues are more likely to be involved in aggravated assault due to the overcrowding, physical contact, and high energy.
Personal traits that make people more likely to be involved in aggravated assault include:
- History of violence
- High impulsivity
- Low social cognitive skills
- Hyperactivity
- Attention deficits
- Gang membership
Daytona Beach Assault Defense
Aggravated assault is a serious offense that can result in years of jail time, expensive fines, and life-long consequences. You can trust the team at Hager & Schwartz, P.A. to fight for you after an aggravated assault arrest. We understand that sometimes our emotions get the best of us, and cause us to act in ways that are unlike ourselves.
If you acted out of emotion and are now facing criminal charges, as a result, contact our Daytona Beach assault attorneys today at (386) 693-1637.