In general the meaning of “aggressive driving” is no consensus but has become a serious problem on roadways, mainly caused by roads more crowded and by irritability of drivers. It refers to any display of aggression by a driver. Every state around the world defines what actions deserve penalties. This guide describes more extreme actions of drivers and their characteristics.
There are two items associated with aggressive driving: the first term is aggressive drivers defining to whom force their way ahead traffic by engaging in reckless maneuvers with the characteristics of anger, impatience, competitiveness, and vindictiveness. By another way, road rage is referred to a physical attack between two drivers by a traffic dispute.
The most common indicators that increase the measure of aggressive driving is considered as part of traffic violations, as a percent of injuries and fatalities:
Characteristics of aggressive drivers:
Usually, aggressive drivers don’t believe there will be consequences to their actions. Read these characteristics about them:
- Usually they take out frustration on anybody at any time.
- Not respect the posted speed limit in any situation.
- They run stops signs and red lights, tailgate and weave in and out of traffic.
- Almost always make improper and unsafe lane changes.
- Hand and facial gestures are their common language.
- Flash their lights in unnecessary situations.
What to do if you encounter an aggressive driver?
- Keep your distance.
- Don’t try to pass unless you have to.
- Be prudent and remain calm.
- Don’t respond to hostile gestures from the aggressive drivers.
- If the aggressive driver is following you, stay where you are and maintain the proper speed. Be patient.
Don’t be an Aggressive Driver
- Change your schedule so you do not have to drive during rush hours.
- If you’re running late, call ahead. Then relax.
- Don’t drive when you are angry, upset or overly tired.
- Get comfortable. Enjoy listening to music and avoid anything that might make you feel anxious.
- Practice good posture. Sit back In your seat, loosen your grip on the steering wheel and don’t clench your teeth.
- And remember, you never know what state of mind the drivers around you are in, give others the benefit of the doubt; be polite, courteous, and forgiving.
How to Avoid Aggressive Driving
Don’t offend
Avoid cutting off other drivers, and always give them room to merge into your lane. If you’re in the left lane and somebody wants to pass, move over and let him by. Allow at least a two-second gap between your car and the one ahead. Keep your hands on the wheel and avoid making any gestures that might anger another driver.
Don’t engage
Give angry drivers lots of room. Avoid eye contact with them. If you believe they’re trying to start a fight, get help call the police on your cellular phone or drive to a place with other people around. Try to get out of the vicinity of the aggressive driver.
Adjust your attitude
Forget winning don’t race the clock to get someplace. Put yourself in the other driver’s shoes and don’t take erratic driving behavior personally the other driver may be a volunteer fireman or physician responding to a call for help. If you think you have a problem, look for anger-management courses in your area.