Dealing with Aggressive Drivers
If you are a consistent road user, chances are you’ve crossed paths with an aggressive driver at one point. Aggressive drivers create an unpleasant experience for other road users and put their lives at risk. The best way to hold an aggressive driver accountable is to report to the relevant authorities and seek legal advice from qualified professionals.
Here are some practical points for handling an aggressive driver.
What Causes Aggressive Driving?
A recent report by NHTSA shows aggressive driving and speeding led to over 53% of road accidents in 2020. Aggressive driving refers to operating a motor vehicle in a manner likely to endanger other people or property. It can include;
- Tailgating other drivers
- Dangerous speeding
- Cutting off other drivers
- Engaging in violence
To better understand how to deal with aggressive drivers, knowing what causes this behavior would be wise. This section explains the primary reasons behind aggressive driving:
Traffic Delays
Some drivers have a low tolerance for inconvenience. These drivers are more likely to drive dangerously and illegally to avoid road inconveniences that expose other drivers to road rage accidents.
Anonymity
You gain some anonymity when inside your car. The anonymity achieved leads some drivers to behave rudely and condescendingly, like giving rude comments.
Clinical Behavior
Some aggressive drivers you encounter on the roads deal with mental health issues. Their health condition can contribute to their irrational and dangerous behavior when driving.
Emergencies
Not all aggressive drivers are ignorant of traffic laws or other road users. Sometimes, the driver might be in critical conditions that require aggressive driving. For instance, when rushing a patient to the hospital for emergency services.
How to Deal with Aggressive Drivers
Aggressive drivers are a menace on the road. Luckily, there are approaches you can consider to handle these drivers and ensure your safety.
Here are tips on handling aggressive drivers:
Correct the Mistakes You Can
Studies show there are behaviors on the road that might trigger aggressive driving. These triggers include driving distracted, cutting off other drivers, tailgating, or going slow.
Start by determining if your actions encourage the aggressive driver and correct the behavior.
Don’t Engage the Angry Driver
Engaging an aggressive driver only fuels their irrational behavior. In as much as it is tempting to respond to the other driver, do not underestimate their potential to cause harm. You can do the following to avoid engaging;
- Don’t exit your vehicle
- Avoid eye contact
- Don’t reciprocate the aggressive driving
- Avoid making obscene gestures to the offender
- Only honk when alerting other drivers of a potentially dangerous scenario
Let the Driver Pass
Dealing with an aggressive driver directly behind you creates a dangerous scenario. If you find yourself in such a position, allow the driver to pass by moving to the right lane. Pull over entirely in a busy parking lot or police station if you notice the angry driver engaging further.
What Should I Do When an Aggressive Driver Exits Their Car?
Some aggressive drivers are persistent in proving a point and are likely to engage in a physical confrontation if you stop your vehicle. Don’t get out of your car if you notice them approaching.
Instead, get the attention of nearby road users by honking repeatedly or activating your car’s alarm. It would also help to note the driver’s appearance and car’s license plate to help with reporting the issue to the authorities.
You must know how to deal with aggressive drivers to guarantee road safety. If you get injured in an accident caused by an aggressive driver, find a professional attorney to help with your case. The legal team will fight to hold the aggressive driver accountable while ensuring you get the compensation you deserve.
