Keep your distance from aggressive drivers

You know them when you see them. The unsafe aggressive driver weaving in and out of traffic, following too closely, speeding and driving as if he were the only one on the road. And you should be on the alert when you encounter them because aggressive drivers are more dangerous than drunk drivers.

According to a study by the Arizona State University (ASU) Center for Problem-Oriented Policing, aggressive drivers cause anywhere from two to four times more traffic deaths than drunk drivers. Another alarming statistic: Behavior associated with aggressive drivers cause two-thirds of U.S. traffic fatalities.

Speeders, tailgaters and angry people

While aggressive drivers come in all shapes and forms, there is one group that stands out more than others. The ASU report noted that the biggest culprits are poorly educated white men under 30 who drive speedy high-performance vehicles with powerful engines.

Here are some of the traits one finds in aggressive drivers:

• Speeding
• Tailgating or following too closely
• Weaving in traffic
• Cutting off other drivers
• Flashing headlights
• Honking the horn
• Blocking other drivers preventing them from changing lanes
• Displaying anger such as screaming and making obscene gestures

You do not want to become another road statistic. Drive safely and stay away from aggressive drivers.

Do not engage with them

An aggressive driver’s reckless behavior heightens anxiety and even triggers more anger from other drivers. Do your best to keep your distance from an aggressive driver and do not engage them. Also, fight off any temptation to subscribe to the same aggressive behavior, potentially leading to a dangerous “road duel.”