Aggressive driving: What you should know

If you are like many other Pennsylvania drivers, you may become frustrated while navigating the busy roadways, especially if you are stuck in traffic and running late to an important meeting or appointment. In fact, up to 80% of American drivers admit to experiencing road rage at some point within the last year, according to AAA. Surprisingly, eight million drivers took it a step further to engage with other drivers by getting out of their vehicles to confront motorists or by ramming their vehicle. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 56% of deadly car accidents involved at least one form of aggressive driving. It is critical that you are able to spot the signs of road rage so you can minimize your risk of becoming involved in such an accident.

Common signs of aggressive driving include the following:

• Speeding or racing other vehicles
• Using obscene hand gestures or yelling obscenities
• Excessive horn honking
• Following too closely or tailgating
• Erratic lane changing and cutting off other vehicles
• Failing to adhere to traffic signs or lights

Angry drivers may pass other vehicles where prohibited, fail to yield to other drivers’ right of way or make improper turns. Law enforcement officers say that you should never try to confront an angry driver or engage in similar behaviors. Instead, alert law enforcement to the problem and allow them to take care of the situation. You may be able to prevent an accident from occurring.

This information is intended to educate and should not be taken as legal advice.