Avoiding Aggressive Driving
According to the National Safety Council aggressive driving is a factor in 50% of crashes. In our last blog we covered speeding as a form of aggressive driving and reasons why these have increased. We want to share now how to identify and avoid aggressive while driving on the road.
Identifying Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving can be identified as a number of behaviors such as:
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Improper lane changes
- Not using turn signals
- Running red lights and stop signs
- Failure to yield
- Passing when not prohibited
These are not to be confused with Road rage. However, AAA exchange shared that, “Extreme cases of aggressive driving can escalate to road rage… A separate AAA Foundation study looked at more than 10,000 road rage incidents committed over seven years, and found they resulted in at least 218 murders and another 12,610 injury cases.” It’s important you avoid aggressive drivers so that it never escalates to a situation you cannot change.
Avoiding Aggressive Drivers
AAA shared 3 basic rules to follow to avoid aggressive drivers:
- Dont offend
Allow plenty of space when doing things such as merging and turning. Allow people to pass and never drive too closely to the car in front of you. These are mainly about being considerate. Be cautious and always avoid making gestures that could offend other drivers.
- Dont engage
One angry driver can’t start a fight unless another driver is willing to join in. You can protect yourself against aggressive drivers by refusing to become angry at them. Just steer clear and avoid eye contact.
- Adjust your attitude
Its important you change your approach to driving. Allow plenty of time for your trip and you will arrive much calmer. Never make driving a contest. Try and not take others driving so personally. And of course if a situation ever gets out of hand be sure to get help.
Contact: Glisson Law