Though sometimes a car crash may happen for an uncontrollable reason, more often than not, there are things that motorists can do to stop them from occurring. This includes avoiding bad driving behavior, such as speeding, using a mobile device or consuming an intoxicant before getting behind the wheel. However, there is one factor that many people never consider.
Aggressive driving here in Wyoming is one of those bad driving behaviors that many people who do it assume isn’t a serious problem or they may even think it is a good way to drive. Statistics show that isn’t the case, with one survey saying over half of all fatal car accidents involved some form of aggressive driving. The good news is that there are ways you can reduce your risk, whether you are the aggressive driver or you encounter one on the road.
Avoiding aggressive drivers
There are very clear methods to avoid becoming the target of an aggressive driver’s ire. Some are obvious, such as monitoring your own driving behavior for actions that might upset another driver. This could include cutting a car off, being in the left-hand lane without going fast enough to pass, following too closely or using rude gestures. You may even want to make the effort to apologize if you happen to do any of these actions, but otherwise, don’t do anything to confront another driver who may be angry.
If you think you may have upset another driver, try to avoid any further interaction. Try not to meet the person’s eyes and let him or her have plenty of space. If you feel threatened, don’t hesitate to involve police. You may even want to drive to a crowded and public area rather than go home, but you should stay in your vehicle if you do.
What if you are the aggressive driver?
It may be hard to admit, but you may actually be the person prone to driving aggressively. If so, changing your mindset and outlook may help you whether you are the driver who gets angry or someone else is. Avoid making driving into a competition by giving yourself lots of time for your journey. If a driver upsets you, perhaps thinking of that driver’s reasons may help keep you cool. Also, there is no shame in reaching out for help with managing your anger and stress levels.
Though this is all good advice, it may not fully help you avoid car accidents. If you or someone you care about has been the victim of an aggressive driver you have the right to hold that person accountable. There is no excuse for bad driving behavior, especially when it hurts someone else.