How to Avoid Road Rage 

Many of us have experienced road rage before, whether it’s someone cutting us off or tailgating us. In a survey conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, as many as 80% of US drivers admitted to having some form of road rage. 

While most cases are minor and blow over quickly, road rage can turn dangerous and even violent. Approximately 8 million drivers engaged in extreme aggressive behavior including getting out of the car to confront the driver and purposely ramming into the other vehicle.

What Is Road Rage?

Road rage is a broad term for when a driver experiences intense aggression or anger and can result in verbal or physical harm toward another driver. While California law does not explicitly define road rage as a crime, this behavior can cause serious incidents like rear-end collisions and sideswipe accidents. The most severe incidents can result in physical altercations.

What Are Common Forms of Road Rage?

Road rage and aggressive driving can manifest in many different behaviors, such as:

• Speeding
• Tailgating
• Rapidly switching lanes
• Running a red light
• Yelling
• Honking out of anger
• Cutting off another vehicle on purpose
• Making angry gestures
• Bumping into another vehicle on purpose
• Getting out of the vehicle to confront the other driver

While road rage isn’t technically against the law, if an accident occurs, the at-fault driver may have their license suspended or be charged with a criminal offense.

How You Can Avoid Becoming a Contributor to Road Rage 

Everyday, millions of Californians get on the road to commute to school or work. Due to this large number of drivers, it’s common to experience congested roadways on a daily basis, leading to frustration. Here are some ways you can combat road rage:

Allow enough time

Rushing to get to work can lead to stress. The best solution? Leave ample time to get to and from your destination. Know your route well in advance and check for any traffic delays. Google Maps, Waze, and ETA are all great apps to stay up to date on traffic and potential delays. If you are running late, pull over, and call to let your employer know.

Be understanding

Not all road rage is personal. When you witness a driver going under the speed limit or exhibiting other poor driving behavior, be understanding and try to ignore it. Getting angry won’t help you get to your destination quicker. Conversely, if you witness dangerous behavior from another driver, dial #77 and report the vehicle.

Don’t cut off a driver

Always practice good driving etiquette. Do not cut off another driver, weave through traffic, or make unsafe lane changes. This is especially important when merging lanes in front of a large truck that will need a lot more time to slow down and stop than a standard passenger vehicle.

Use your horn sparingly

Honking your horn out of frustration will only add to your stress. Horns are meant for emergency use only, not to reprimand or taunt other drivers, so lay off the horn unless absolutely necessary.

Don’t tailgate

California Vehicle Code 21703 VC prohibits drivers from following a vehicle too closely, or tailgating. This traffic offense carries a fine of over $200 and one point on the your DMV record. Maintain a safe distance between you and the other driver by following the three-second rule. If you notice a driver is tailgating you, safely change lanes, and let that driver pass. 

How to Deal With Road Rage from Another Driver

When you’re experiencing another driver’s road rage, the most important thing you can do is stay calm and ignore their behavior. Reciprocating that driver’s aggression won’t solve any problems and may increase the risk of an accident.

Create distance between you and the driver by letting them pass, slowing down, or getting off at the nearest exit. If the situation escalates, call 911 immediately or head to the nearest police station. As always, it’s important to follow defensive driving techniques to keep yourself and others safe on the road.

What Can I Do If I’m a Victim of Road Rage?

If you have been a victim of a road rage accident, you may be able to file a claim against the at-fault party for negligent or reckless behavior. The Law Offices of Daniel Kim represents California drivers who have been injured in road rage accidents. We are available 24/7 to discuss your options in a free consultation. To schedule your consultation, call us at (800) 719-9779 or start a quick online chat.