Some people are aggressive or short-tempered in general. They are quick to anger whether sitting at home, walking down the street or driving their car. Yet some normally mild-mannered people become volatile when they take the wheel of a vehicle.
Examples of aggressive driving include cutting people up, blocking their attempts to overtake, making gestures, honking the horn or revving the engine, among many other things.
Aggression can soon spiral
Picture this: Someone does something they should not that affects you. For instance, they pull in too close in front after overtaking, forcing you to brake. Or they indicate late and cut across you to turn off. If you get upset by this and react, however slightly, it could lead to them reacting in return. You now have a situation where neither of you has the calm head needed to drive safely. That could easily result in a crash.
Do your best to avoid a situation
The best thing you can do when faced with an upset driver is to get away from them. Slow down or pull over to let them pass you. You might even need to turn off the road. Do take care, though. If the other driver follows you, it’s a bad sign. If that happens, try and find a patrol car or police station to pull over by or at least somewhere with plenty of people and lighting, such as a gas station, that reduces the chance they try to confront you, as some confrontations turn fatal.
Driving can be stressful for everyone at times. Yet drivers must always remember the enormous responsibility they bear. If someone injures you because they cannot keep their emotions in check, it’s crucial to learn about your legal options.