Aggressive Drivers and Road Rage

Have you in encountered Aggressive Drivers and Road Rage?

Aggressive driving includes speeding, which often leads to following too closely, frequent or abrupt lane changes without signaling, passing on the shoulder or unpaved portions of the roadway, or harassing motorists who just happen to not get out of the way.  Aggressive drivers also may run stop signs and red lights, pass stopped school buses, fail to keep right, drive while impaired by alcohol or drugs, and drive recklessly.  A few threaten, or attempt to cause, physical damage to another driver.  And that is how aggressive driving becomes road rage.

To prevent aggressive driving from developing into road rage, it is sometimes better to not make eye contact with another driver, especially where conflict can occur - the other driver may interpret eye contact as a "challenge."

Tip: That is the reason why I highly recommend the 6-hour defensive driving course.

When confronted by an aggressive driver:

• Avoid eye contact.
• Stay calm and relaxed.
• Make every attempt to get out of the way safely.  Do not escalate the situation.
• Put your pride in the back seat.  Do not challenge an aggressive driver by speeding up or attempting to hold your position in your travel lane.
• Wear a seat belt and encourage your passengers to do the same.
• Ignore harassing gestures and name calling, and do not return them.
• Report aggressive drivers to the appropriate law enforcement authorities by providing a vehicle description, location, license plate number, and direction of travel.
• If you are being followed by an aggressive or threatening driver, do not stop or get out of your vehicle.  Drive directly to the nearest police station.
• If an aggressive driver is involved in a crash, stop a safe distance from the crash scene.  When the police arrive, report the driving behavior you witnessed.

How to avoid becoming an aggressive driver:

• Allow enough travel time to reach your destination on schedule.
• Alter your schedule to avoid driving during peak highway congestion periods.
• If you're running late, call ahead so you can relax.
• Do not drive when you are angry, upset or overly tired.
• Make your vehicle comfortable.  Listen to relaxing music and avoid situations that raise your anxiety.
• When driving, relax and remain aware of your posture.  Sit back in your seat, loosen your grip on the steering wheel and do not clench your teeth.
• Give others the benefit of the doubt; be polite, courteous and forgiving.
• You can control your own reactions to other drivers.  If someone else drives aggressively, do not retaliate.

If you have the right-of-way, do not think of it as an absolute right.  Be prepared to give up the right-of-way to avoid a crash or prevent confusion.  Waiting a few seconds for another driver is far better than risking a crash.
Did you know that after you pass the road test and receive your license, there is a 6-hour defensive driving course?  Visit www.PaulinaAParker.com for more information.