Traffic

September 6th, 2007 · No Comments · Current

Do you run stop signs and red lights, speed excessively or weave in and out of traffic?
If so, then you are an aggressive driver.
While aggressive driving and road rage are sometimes used interchangeably, they are not the same thing.
According to the National Highway Safety Administration, an aggressive driver commits multiple traffic violations in order to make up some time.
This happens most often during rush hours when traffic congestion is at its peak.
Typical aggressive driver behaviors include running stop signs and red lights, tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, passing on the right, making improper lane changes, making hand and facial gestures, screaming, honking and flashing of their lights.
Aggressive drivers also drive at an excessive speed. They tailgate, change lanes without using turn signals, pass on the shoulder and threaten both verbally and through gestures at the motorist who has the nerve to be in front of him or her.
Road rage on the other hand, is a criminal act committed by an individual whose aggression has gotten out of control due to a traffic incident. A simple traffic incident, such as switching from lane to lane, can incite an individual to a physical confrontation, an assault with a vehicle or even assault with a gun.
What is the best way to deal with an aggressive driver? First, do not let your ego or pride stand in your way. Make every effort to move out of the aggressive driver’s way.
Do not try to challenge them or speed up to hold your own against them.
Do not make eye contact with the aggressive driver. Ignore any physical gestures and refuse to return them. If you have a cell phone and can call safety, call the police or any other emergency number that you have programmed into your phone.
Be sure to take down the car’s vehicle description, license number, location and direction of travel.
According to the web site drivers.com, some studies have indicated that the public is becoming more fearful of aggressive drivers than impaired drivers. Several states are considering legislation to deal with this issue. You can help stem the growing tide of aggressive drivers by reporting to the police any aggressive driving acts that you have witnessed.
However, be sure to do it on your cell phone safely by using your hands-free device, pulling over to the side of the road to make the call or having a passenger make the call.
Road rage incidents can be eliminated if we, as drivers, use a little more common courtesy and a little less overreaction.
Let’s do what we can to stop this menace of the roadways.