One in three accidents this year will be caused by road rage in the United States. Of those accidents, approximately 30 will involve murder by enraged drivers with guns. With our roadways looking more and more dangerous, drivers need to be more alert than ever.
Learning how to avoid becoming a victim of road rage is crucial for drivers of all ages.
What does road rage look like?
According to the National Library of Medicine, one in every three drivers has engaged in road rage at one point or another. That said, it’s important to note that less than 2% of drivers actively engage in escalated road rage. There are many ways in which road rage occurs. These include:
- Screaming at other drivers.
- Making rude gestures at other drivers.
- Tailgating.
- Brake-checking.
- Side-swiping another vehicle on purpose.
- Flashing lights rapidly while leaning on the horn.
- Purposely forcing another driver off of the road.
- Purposely hitting another vehicle.
- Throwing trash and other objects at drivers.
- Brandishing a gun.
Knowing these signs, how can a driver avoid becoming a victim of road rage?
- The moment you notice an aggressive driver is following you, get out of their way and let them pass.
- Do not engage with the driver. Keep your eyes on the road ahead.
- If the aggressive driver is intent on pursuing you, call 9-1-1 immediately and ask for help.
- Watch out for a driver who tries to brake check you. They’re hoping you’ll hit them and the two of you will have to pull over.
- Do not stop when an aggressive driver asks you to stop. This may be the driver’s attempt at engaging you in a fight.