Aggressive driving is a common problem across the United States, including Connecticut. Unfortunately, the worst form of aggressive driving-road rage-is too common and has too many negative consequences, including accidents that injure and killed, that it cannot be ignored by legislators and law enforcement authorities. For this reason, Connecticut stresses how both newer and older more experienced drivers can avoid it.

Driving is privilege, not a right, and acceptance of a driver’s license comes with many responsibilities, including self-control. Studies of aggressive driving behavior have found that many factors-increased traffic on roads, improper driving techniques learned from parents, reduced sense of courtesy and immaturity in some drivers-contribute to road rage and, too often, car accidents.

Very often drivers may be driving aggressively without realizing it. When they do, it can provoke aggressive responses in other drivers. If targeted by aggressive drivers, newer as well as experienced drivers can get caught up in retaliating for alleged slights. The most common incident that sparks a confrontation is cutting a driver off or exhibiting rude hand signals. The result can be a high-speed chase through traffic, behavior that increases the chances of an accident and endangers everyone on the road around the aggressive drivers.

The best way to avoid any road rage incident is to refrain from retaliating for any action. Never engage in racing to keep up with an aggressive driver. Pulling off the road to let tempers cool can also help. If necessary, contact police and allow them to address the problem. Provide as much information as possible to authorities.

Aggressive driving alone can endanger people’s lives; engaging in road rage only makes the problem worse. Every driver should remember that courteous behavior along with safe driving habits will prevent the vast majority of problems.

Source: CT.gov, “Driver’s Manual,” July 2014