New York is notorious for having angry and inpatient drivers. The truth is, more than 80% of drivers across the country admit to having road rage at some point during the last year, according to AAA. Road rage is rather common, as it is easy to become infuriated with another driver that is going too slow in front of you or who cut you off. You may be stuck in traffic while on your way to an important meeting and engage in dangerous driving behaviors in an attempt to get where you are going more quickly. It is critical that you are aware of the signs of aggressive driving so you do not engage in these behaviors and so you can report other drivers who are as they can endanger the lives of others.
According to the National HIghway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 56% of fatal motor vehicle accidents involved road rage driving behaviors. These include the following:
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Using the horn excessively, displaying hand gestures or yelling obscenities
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Rapidly changing lanes, blocking drivers and pulling out in front of other drivers
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Avoiding traffic signals, traffic signs and pedestrian crosswalks
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Racing other vehicles or speeding
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Failing to yield to another driver’s right of way
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Driving on the shoulder of the road to pass someone illegally
In some cases, drivers may become so enraged while on the road that they may physically confront another car and threaten physical harm to another person.
If you identify the signs of an aggressive driver and come into contact with one on the road, it is important to avoid confrontation. Approaching the aggressive driver may cause a dangerous situation. Instead, alert law enforcement officers so they can deal with the matter in a safe manner.
This information is intended to educate and should not be taken as legal advice.