Aggressive Drivers

How to Spot Aggressive Drivers

Aggressive driving is a combination of several offenses that endanger the safety of others. It is  risky behavior by drivers usually executed with intent and awareness. Aggressive driving could result from external factors like running late and traffic or internal factors like disregard.

Importantly, aggressive driving differs from road rage. Aggressive driving occurs when a driver commits traffic offenses like speeding or blocking, which endangers people or property. On the other hand, road rage is a criminal offense where a driver uses their vehicle as a weapon to cause harm.

It is advisable to be able to identify an aggressive driver. This could help save your life while you are on the road. Here, we will highlight some examples of behaviors that aggressive drivers exhibit.

4 Examples of Aggressive Drivers Behaviors

Here are four behaviors of aggressive drivers you should watch out for when  you are on the road:

1. Tailgating

Tailgating occurs when drivers drive too close to the vehicle in front of them. When a driver does this, insufficient space is left between both cars. This can lead to a collision if the vehicle in front stops unexpectedly.

Aggressive drivers often tailgate to annoy other drivers and make them drive faster. You should not allow a tailgating driver to influence you if you drive according to the required speed limit. To deal with an aggressive driver who is tailgating, here are some things you can do:

  • Get out of the way if you can. Look out for openings where you can pull out of the road, even a parking spot.
  • Maintain your speed at all times; drive under the speed limit preferably.
  • Avoid slamming your brakes. This could lead to a rear-end collision and cause an accident.

2. Lane weaving

Lane weaving refers to the process of a car repeatedly moving from one lane to another. Aggressive drivers usually do this to overtake other cars and avoid traffic. Unfortunately, when aggressive drivers weave through lanes, they are often reckless, moving at high speeds.

Statistics show that lane weaving was the third most common driver behavior that contributed to fatal crashes in 2018. It followed after driving too fast and driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol. This shows just how dangerous the behavior is.

3. Driving on the right shoulder

On a highway, the right shoulder is a lane on the side reserved for emergency uses. Driving on the right shoulder is considered illegal if there is no emergency. Aggressive drivers can do this for different reasons, like trying to beat traffic.

Driving on the right shoulder can be dangerous, leading to a collision because the driver may not see an emergency vehicle ahead while speeding. It could also lead to a blocked passage for emergency vehicles.

4. Brake-checking

When an aggressive driver brake-checks, they suddenly hit their brakes. This is usually done to make the vehicle behind collide or swerve away. However, some drivers do this to eliminate tailgating or intentionally cause damage.

Conclusion

It is always good to remain aware of other drivers while driving on the highway. However, watching out for aggressive drivers can prevent you from being caught in a serious accident. 

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