While many people have witnessed aggressive driving first-hand, others are unaware of the deadly consequences of road rage. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 56% of deadly automobile accidents in the U.S. involved at least one form of aggressive driving.
A surprising 522 people were injured or killed in road rage shootings across the country in 2021 alone, according to CBS News. Not only do people challenge other motorists with hazardous driving behaviors, but some resort to physical violence which endanger others’ lives.
What are the signs of an enraged driver?
According to the Insurance Information Institute, aggressive drivers often display the following reckless behaviors:
- Swerving between lanes, often cutting off or blocking other drivers
- Failing to yield to stop signs, traffic signals of other drivers’ right of way
- Speeding or attempting to race other vehicles
- Following directly behind other vehicles, or tailgating
- Excessive honking and yelling at other motorists
- Intentionally hitting other vehicles
Angry drivers may pass where prohibited as well.
What to do when encountering a frustrated driver
People become especially frustrated when trying to get to their destination quickly. For example, people rushing to work, stuck in traffic or rushing to meet friends may disregard the rules of the road. If you run into a situation where you are faced with an aggressive driver, it is important to contact law enforcement officers. Trying to handle the situation on your own could lead to a dangerous situation.
Law enforcement officers can handle a potentially hazardous case in a safe manner, minimizing the risk of an accident, injury or death.