As a Missouri motorist, you know firsthand the difficulty of navigating through high-traffic areas. Whether stuck behind a slow driver or rushing to get to an important appointment, it can be frustrating getting to where you need to go. If you have ever felt aggravated or angry while behind the wheel, you are not alone.
According to AAA, 80% of Americans have felt road rage at some point within the last year. People who have road rage often display aggressive driving behaviors, which endangers everyone on the road.
Spotting the signs of road rage
Understanding how to spot the signs of road rage may help to minimize motorists’ likelihood of getting into an altercation or car accident. The Insurance Information Institute reported the following signs of aggressive driving:
- Excessive horn honking, yelling obscenities or using profane gestures
- Speeding or racing other vehicles
- Tailgating or riding too close to the car in front
- Cutting off other drivers or blocking them from changing lanes
- Failing to yield to traffic signs, traffic lights and pedestrian crosswalks
In some escalated situations, drivers have rammed or bumped into another vehicle on purpose. Others have gotten out of their cars to approach another driver.
Containing the situation
Those who come across motorists who are engaging in dangerous driving behaviors should avoid interactions. Drivers should try not to aggravate angry drivers by racing them, blocking them or riding their bumper. Instead, drivers should be tolerant. The careless driver may be racing to get to an emergency situation or could be having a bad day.
Furthermore, drivers should contact law enforcement and tell them about the problem at hand. Officers can handle the situation in a way that avoids escalating the situation.