Aggressive driving is a major concern of the American public and a real threat to the safety of all road users. In a survey conducted by the AAA Foundation, nearly 9 in 10 respondents said they believed aggressive drivers were a “somewhat” or “very serious” threat to their personal safety.

Have you shared the road with an aggressive driver before? It can be an unsettling yet all-too-common experience. You may witness drivers doing things that are illegal, inconsiderate and even incomprehensible. Don’t respond personally. Most drivers are not thinking about their impact on you; they are just rushed, distracted or upset.

AAA shares the following tips for avoiding and dealing with road rage incidents.

Follow the Rules of the Road

• Maintain adequate following distance.
• Use turn signals.
• Allow others to merge.
• Use your high beams responsibly.
• Tap your horn if you must (but no long blasts with accompanying hand gestures).
• Be considerate in parking lots. Park in one spot, not across multiple spaces. Be careful not to hit cars next to you with your door.
• Remaining calm and courteous behind the wheel lowers your risk of an unpleasant encounter – with another driver and with law enforcement.
   

Dealing with Confrontation

• Avoid eye contact with angry drivers.
• Don’t respond to aggression with aggression.
• If you feel you are at risk, drive to a public place such as a police station, hospital or fire station.
• When you park, allow room so you can pull out safely if someone approaches you aggressively.
• Use your horn to attract attention but remain in your locked vehicle.
• If you are confronted, stay as calm and courteous as possible.
• If you feel threatened, call 911.
   

Always Remember

• Don’t Offend: Never cause another driver to change their speed or direction. That means not forcing another driver to use their brakes, or turn the steering wheel in response to something you have done.
• Be Tolerant and Forgiving: The other driver may just be having a really bad day. Assume that it’s not personal.
• Do Not Respond: Avoid eye contact, don’t make gestures, maintain space around your vehicle, and contact 9-1-1 if needed.
   

Driver Training and Education through AAA prepares young drivers for the many challenges they're bound to face on the road. Five-Hour Pre-Licensing is now available for distance learning in a virtual classroom.

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