Aggressive can cause life-changing car accidents. It is essential to recognize the behavior and to avoid aggressive drivers to prevent accidents. Aggressive driving is an intentional unsafe driving behavior, disregarding safety and ill intention. This issue is an increasing concern, and for many drivers, aggression behind the wheel is a usual behavior pattern.
Common aggressive driving behaviors include:
- Blocking other vehicles from passing
- Cutting off other drivers suddenly, with or without signaling
- Erratic driving, like constantly slowing down and speeding up
- Flashing headlights and high beams
- Illegal passing in the wrong lane or on the shoulder or median
- Intentionally hitting the brakes to intimidate other drivers
- Rude or threatening remarks or hand gestures
- Running traffic lights and ignoring traffic signs
- Speeding and racing
- Tailgating
- Unnecessary use of the horn
Some Aggressive Drivers Are Confrontational
Many aggressive drivers are simply in a hurry, running red lights and speeding down highways, but others are more confrontational. Confrontational drivers direct their behaviors at others and are likelier to tailgate, pass another vehicle, deliberately slow down, or threaten motorists. Those behaviors can be hazardous when others get angry and respond. That can inflame tempers and set the stage for dangerous road rage.
How Should I Deal With an Aggressive Driver?
When confronted with an aggressive driver, breathe and increase your distance. Maintain the legal speed or slow down slightly, changing lanes when safe. Do not pass an aggressive driver unless there is no other choice; always do it carefully.
Never make eye contact with an aggressive driver because that could escalate the situation. If they make rude gestures, flash their lights, or attempt other hostile actions, do your best to ignore them. Instead of tapping your brakes when someone is tailgating, put your blinker on and change lanes safely. Most of the time, they will keep moving without incident.
Contact Our Delaware County Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks After an Aggressive Driving Accident
Aggressive drivers cause countless accidents, injuries, property damage, and fatalities in this country. A skilled Delaware County car accident lawyer at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. can help you after an aggressive driving accident. To schedule a consultation, call 610-565-3701 or complete our online form. Located in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we serve clients in Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.