Aggressive drivers can be found on any road at any time, especially during summer months when hot temperatures are elevating the tempers of people behind the wheel. A recent survey revealed that 92 percent of drivers in the United States witnessed an act of road rage in 2023, while 82 percent admitted to committing those acts at least once in the past year.
Finding yourself in a road rage crisis can be a frightening experience as the situation can quickly escalate and pose a significant threat to everyone’s safety. Here are some tips to effectively handle encounters with aggressive drivers.
Remain calm
Road rage typically starts when drivers resort to verbal insults, inappropriate gestures or aggressive honking. Although it is easy to feel anger and retaliate when you see such behavior on the road, the best action is to ignore it and maintain composure. Do not make eye contact or confront the driver, as this can make the situation worse. Remember, patience and caution are your best companions when dealing with aggressive drivers.
Remove yourself from the situation
Aggressive drivers would usually resort to tailgating to provoke a response from you, but the safest action is to give them space. Make sure that you create enough distance between you and the driver to reduce the risk of an accident. If it is safe to do so, change lanes or slow down to let them pass.
Alert the authorities
If the driver refuses to let the situation dissipate and poses a significant threat to your safety and everyone else on the road by swerving and tailgating, do not hesitate to call the authorities. As you wait for law enforcement to arrive, make sure to stay inside and keep the vehicle securely locked.
It can be easy to default to retaliation against an aggressive driver, especially if you find yourself stuck and frustrated in traffic. However, it is essential to remember that road rage typically occurs when a person behind the wheel is going through a stressful time in their life. Approaching the situation with empathy for the other motorist could significantly help you navigate such a crisis and diffuse the tension effectively.