Drivers throughout Pennsylvania and across the United States may lose their patience when navigating the roadways. Whether they are late for an important meeting or rushing home from work, getting angry while behind the wheel is not uncommon. In fact, more than 80% of American motorists admit that they have felt angry while driving at some point within the last year.
Aggressive driving behaviors that road rage motorists display endanger the lives of everyone on the road. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that at least 56% of all deadly motor vehicle accidents involved at least one form of aggressive driving. Drivers must know how to react to enraged drivers to minimize the risk of a serious accident.
What are the signs of an angry driver?
Aggressive motorists may display some dangerous driving behaviors, including the following:
- Failing to obey traffic signals, stop signs and pedestrian crosswalks
- Speeding or racing other cars
- Following too closely or tailgating
- Honking excessively, yelling or displaying angry hand gestures
- Blocking other vehicles from changing lanes
- Switching lanes quickly, cutting off other drivers
In extreme cases, drivers can become so enraged that they intentionally hit other drivers, causing an accident. They may leave their cars and start an altercation with another driver as well.
How should drivers react?
Engaging with enraged drivers is dangerous. Law enforcement officers urge motorists to avoid interacting with angry drivers. Instead of exchanging words, racing or aggravating angry motorists further, drivers should contact law enforcement and allow them to handle the situation properly.