If you have ever experienced anger or frustration while navigating the Georgia roadways, you are not alone. In fact, more than 80% of U.S. drivers confess that they have driven while angry at least once within the past year, according to AAA.
In some cases, these feelings of anger may escalate to aggression and road rage, which can become dangerous to everyone on the road. Aggressive driving behaviors can be committed unintentionally, yet they still run the risk of causing a serious car accident.
What are the signs of road rage?
Oftentimes, you can spot hazardous driving behaviors rather easily. According to the Insurance Information Institute, signs of road rage may include the following:
- Failing to yield to another driver’s right of way, traffic signs, signals or pedestrian crosswalks
- Honking excessively, yelling or using obscene hand gestures
- Speeding or racing other cars
- Tailgating or following too closely
- Changing lanes improperly or excessively
- Blocking other vehicles from changing lanes or cutting off other cars
People with road rage may take the matter a step further by hitting into other vehicles or starting a physical altercation with motorists.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that speeding alone was involved in 17% of fatal car accidents in 2018, which was higher than driving under the influence of alcohol.
What action should you take?
It can be difficult to not get involved if another motorist is driving aggressively, cutting you off, yelling at you or riding too close to your bumper. While you may be tempted to react and fight back, it is critical that you do just the opposite. Law enforcement officers recommend that you avoid contact with the angry driver, and contact officers. They can handle the problem in such a way that minimizes the risk of a deadly accident.