When navigating the streets of Missouri, you may feel frustrated when stuck in traffic, especially if you are running late to work, an appointment or an important meeting. If you have experienced anger, aggression or road rage, you are not alone. According to AAA, at least 80% of drivers in the United States say that they too have had incidences of road rage at some point within the last 12 months. The problems lie in the dangerous driving behaviors that accompany road rage. Approximately 56% of all deadly car accidents involve some type of aggressive driving.
It is important to be able to identify the signs of aggressive driving in order to minimize your risk of becoming involved in a fatal car accident. These signs include the following:
- Speeding or racing other cars
- Tailgating or following too closely
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Blocking other vehicles so they cannot change lanes or cutting them off
- Yelling obscenities or using hand gestures
- Excessive honking
Aggressive drivers may fail to adhere to traffic signals or signs. They may fail to yield to other drivers’ right of way or be unable to respond quickly to pedestrians or bicyclists. In some cases, people with road rage may get out of their vehicles, approach other cars and start a physical altercation.
If you spot an aggressive driver, you should avoid interacting with them. Instead, alert law enforcement officers to the problem and let them take care of the situation.
This information is intended to educate and should not be taken as legal advice.