Unfortunately, the chances of encountering an aggressive driver are very high. How you respond to a driver who operates their car in a manner that endangers you and other road users is crucial. Your response can determine whether or not the situation escalates.
Here is how to deal with an aggressive driver:
Stay calm
When a driver is tailgating you, speeding, disobeying stop signs and traffic signals, weaving in and out of traffic, making unsafe lane changes or passing on the right, staying calm may be the last thing you want to do.
However, retaliating by honking, using gestures, slamming your brakes or blocking them can worsen the situation. It’s vital to remain calm, maintain your speed and focus on your driving.
Give them way
When an aggressive driver is following you, you should safely get out of their way at the first opportunity. When on a multi-lane road, signal and move to the right lane to give way. When on a single-lane road, pull over into an open, well-lit parking lot or gas station. If there is a wide right shoulder around, you can also use it.
Don’t communicate with them
You should avoid any form of communication with the driver when they are passing. Avoid eye contact, ignore their gestures and do not use gestures to express frustration. The earlier they leave, the earlier you will be out of risk.
Report them
If an aggressive driver refuses to pass when you give them way, or their behavior is so dangerous that you believe they might harm someone down the road, call the police. Provide the police with the vehicle description and license plate and the direction the driver is heading.
Driving without regard for the safety of others is unlawful and dangerous. If an aggressive driver causes you to sustain injuries, you can hold them liable for their actions.
