As a driver in Louisiana, it is not uncommon to get stuck in traffic or caught behind a slow driver. These types of situations can be frustrating, especially when rushing to work, a meeting or an important appointment. You may even admit to having some road rage.
If you have experienced road rage, you are certainly not alone. According to AAA, at least 80% of Americans confess that they have felt road rage at some point within the last year. It is how you handle your aggression while behind the wheel that is critical. Aggressive driving contributes to devastating car accidents, injuries and deaths every year. By understanding how to spot an aggressive driver, you may be able to minimize your risk of becoming caught in an accident.
Signs of an aggressive driver
To spot an aggressive driver, be on the lookout for the following dangerous driving behaviors:
- Erratic lane changing, swerving in between cars
- Excessive horn honking, yelling and displaying inappropriate hand gestures
- Failure to yield to traffic signals, pedestrian crosswalks and stop signs
- Tailgating or following too closely behind the car in front
- Speeding or racing other vehicles
In some extreme cases, angry drivers may leave their vehicles and confront other drivers to start a physical altercation. Angry drivers may ram their cars into other vehicles in an attempt to run them off the road.
What you should do
If you should come into contact with an aggressive driver, officers suggest that you avoid making eye contact or exchanging words. It is best to not engage with them, but rather alert law enforcement officers to the problem. Officers can handle the problem safely and minimize the risk of anyone getting hurt in an accident.
Introduced legislation attempts to make aggressive driving against the law. If passed, drivers engaging in dangerous behaviors would get a maximum fine of $500 and spend six months in jail. Furthermore, aggressive drivers may lose their license for up to six months.
