Tips For Dealing With Aggresive Drivers

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With more cars on the road than ever before these days, and with more drivers in a seemingly stressed-out state, getting into the car to join them can sometimes appear like a fearsome prospect.

We often hear stories on the news about car accidents that have been caused by road rage incidents. More worryingly, we also hear about fatalities, both on the news and in adverts advocating the services of qualified sudden death attorneys.

We wouldn't blame you if you decided to leave your car on the driveway for good, in favour of using your own two legs to get from A to B! Of course, this isn't always practical, especially when you have a long journey ahead of you!

Of course, there are ways to protect ourselves from the aggressive drivers who litter our roads with their dangerous driving and incessant horn beeping. Here are some tips that you might find useful.

1. Be a safe driver

While the other person might be driving like Mad Max on the motorway, you don't have to follow suit. Don't be tempted to retaliate when they tailgate you. Don't be tempted to shout back at them when they shout at you.

Instead, commit to safe driving practices, as you will place yourself out of harm's way. Move to another lane to let the aggressive driver pass.

Keep your eyes focused on the road and not on the other driver. And follow highway laws, even if the other person insists on breaking them with their anger-fuelled driving.

2.Buy a dashcam
A dashcam won't exactly keep you safe, but if you can show the footage from the cam to the police after recording the antics of a dangerous driver, you might be able to protect others if that driver is warned and prosecuted about their driving.

You will also have evidence to show to your insurance company should you get into an accident.

3. Reduce your own stress
Firstly, make sure you're in a calm state before getting into your car. This way, should you encounter an aggressive driver, you won't be tempted to retaliate if they wrong you. And if you do come across a less-than-friendly driver on the roads, find ways to stay calm.

You could open your windows, not to shout abuse at the other person, but to let the air cool you down. Music can also help, so consider playing something classical rather than something punk-rockish.

Breathing exercises are good for reducing stress. And if you find yourself in an agitated state, and if it is safe to do so, pull over, and bring yourself to a state of calm while the other person hurtles away into the distance.

4. Call the police
To protect yourself and other drivers, call the police if you are worried about the behaviour of the aggressive driver. Take a mental note of their registration number, and either call the police while driving if you have a hands-free kit in your car, or call them after pulling over.

You should especially do this if you feel personally threatened as it's important to get help as soon as possible.

I hope those tips were useful, but leave us a comment if you have any other advice for our readers on how to deal with aggressive drivers.