Aggressive driving includes tailgating, speeding, failing to yield, cutting off drivers, and other reckless actions. Aggressive driving is extremely common, and it is very dangerous.
Aggressive driving can also easily lead to road rage. Some common road rage actions include forcing someone off the road, obscene gestures, and throwing objects. Although male drivers are often associated with aggressive driving and road rage, studies show that women also drive recklessly.
Data from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety (AAA) in 2019 revealed that while men drivers are more aggressive overall, women also drive dangerously. Younger male and female drivers are usually more aggressive than senior motorists, but both groups can be aggressive. The most common dangerous driving behavior that was reported was speeding. According to the report, 44.6 percent of females and 52 percent of males admitted to driving at least 15 miles per hour over posted freeway speed limits.
What Causes Aggressive Driving?
Studies show that men under 30 years old, who are poorly educated, and drive high-performance vehicles are linked to serious traffic offenses, minor moving violations, and violent crimes. However, personality traits also play a large part in the way people drive. Those who have little impulse control, poor problem-solving skills, are risk takers, think unrealistically, and who are self-centered tend to drive more aggressively. All of these traits are more commonly seen in younger individuals.
Additionally, heavy traffic is a main trigger. Motorists waiting in rush hour traffic can cause tensions to boil. For this reason, it is important to always plan your route ahead of time. You should check your route to see if you need to prepare for heavy traffic.
If you encounter traffic, stay calm. If you see an aggressive driver, do not engage with them. Let them pass by you, and do not retaliate.
Actions That Lead to Road Rage
Aggressive driving can lead to road rage. Some common actions that cause road rage include:
- Aggressive tailgating
- Headlight flashing
- Purposely obstructing other vehicles
- Verbally abusing other drivers
A main component involved in road rage car accidents is retaliation. Retaliatory road rage is when the target of an aggressive driver gets angry and decides to teach that person a lesson. It is best not to engage with the aggressive driver. You do not know how they will react. If you feel unsafe, you can report the driver to the police.
How Do I Know if I am an Aggressive Driver?
Many people are not even aware that they are an aggressive driver. If you notice that other drivers frequently honk their horns at you, if you have a lot of speed tickets or traffic violations, and if you yell at other motorists, you might be an aggressive driver. It is important to evaluate your driving habits. If you think you drive aggressively, take steps to become a safe and defense driver.
Road rage can happen at any time. It is possible to become a less aggressive driver, but it takes some work. A few calming words can counteract negative thoughts, and this method can be very effective. Positive statements can really influence your behavior.
What Should I Do if I Encounter an Aggressive Driver?
You might not know what steps to take if you see an aggressive driver. The AAA also offers some tips on how to deal with aggressive drivers:
- It is best to get as far away as possible. Remain calm at all times, and let them pass by you.
- Avoid making eye contact, and refrain from many any kinds of gestures.
- Call 911 if you feel unsafe. Safely pull over to the side of the road, and do not get out of your car.
- Assume that the driver’s actions are not personal.
- Never chase down the driver or retaliate.
Always do your best to be a courteous driver. Some helpful defensive driving tips include:
- Use your car’s high-beams responsibility.
- Let others merge when they need to get into your lane.
- Do not tailgate.
- Follow the posted speed limits.
- Use turn signals.
Mount Laurel Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Office of David S. Rochman Help Those Injured by Aggressive Drivers
Whether a driver is male or female, anyone can be prone to aggressive driving. It is important to always be a defensive driver. If you were injured by an aggressive driver, contact our skilled Mount Laurel car accident lawyers at the Law Office of David S. Rochman. We will fight on your behalf and protect your rights. To schedule a free consultation and for more information, complete our online form or call us at 856-751-2345. We are located in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, and we serve clients throughout the surrounding areas.