If you live or work in New York, you know first hand the issues arising from road rage and aggressive driving. Whether stuck in traffic on your way to an important meeting or rushing home from a hard day at the office, getting stuck in traffic is irritating.
For some people, it can become infuriating and they develop road rage. Aggressive driving is a serious problem in New York and across the United States. Knowing how to recognize the signs of road rage in others and in yourself may help minimize the risk of a deadly car accident.
The facts
Nearly 56% of deadly car accidents over a five-year period involved at least one form of aggressive driving, with speeding being the most prevalent, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Furthermore, two in three drivers agree that aggressive driving is a growing problem throughout the country.
What are the dangers of aggressive driving?
Motorists with road rage often display hazardous driving behaviors that can endanger others on the road. In addition to speeding, these behaviors include the following:
- Passing other vehicles on the shoulder of the road
- Following other vehicles too closely or tailgating
- Blocking other vehicles from changing lanes
- Honking and yelling at other vehicles
- Failing to stop at traffic signals, stop signs or pedestrian crosswalks
- Threatening other drivers verbally and physically
When motorists get angry, they may intentionally hit other cars or physically injure others.
Anyone driving alongside a motorist with road rage is in danger. While driving along in traffic, you do not know when an angry driver is going to emerge. The best way to protect yourself and others is to contact law enforcement. Alerting officers to the issue may help prevent a serious accident, for yourself or others.