Many motorists in Texas and across the United States have gotten upset with other drivers while trying to navigate busy roadways. In fact, a study released by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reported that approximately 80 percent of motorists have felt angry or enraged while driving at least one time within the last year. This road rage has contributed to a number of catastrophic car accidents, injuries and deaths. What is the cause of such rage while behind the wheel? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, delays in traffic and people running late to work, a meeting or an appointment are some of the most common reasons why people get frustrated while driving. Others have a total disregard for the law and may feel a sense of anonymity when traveling in their vehicles.
It is important for motorists to be aware of aggressive driving behaviors, so they can minimize their risk of being involving in a road rage accident. These behaviors include the following:
- Tailgating or driving too closely behind another driver
- Obsessive horn honking, using gestures or yelling profanities
- Blocking another vehicle from changing lanes
- Erratically switching in and out of lanes
- Cutting off other vehicles
- Failing to respond to traffic signals or other drivers’ right of way
Angry drivers may even purposely bump into or hit the driver in front of them if they become enraged. In some cases, aggressive drivers may exit their vehicle to confront another driver. Racing, illegal passing and making sudden turns are other forms of dangerous driving.
