How to Deal with an Aggressive Driver

By “Jeff Craig”

Last Updated October 21, 2019 – 17 minute read

Aggressive drivers seem to be everywhere—honking, flashing their lights, tailgating, cutting people off, and basically causing a nuisance to everyone else on the road. Aggressive drivers are also dangerous. They can cause serious car accidents that injure innocent victims, sending some of them to the hospital. If you find yourself on the road with an aggressive driver, remember the following tips. They could save your life and the lives of your passengers.

Avoid Escalating the Situation

If someone cuts you off, don’t tailgate them and flash your lights. That will only antagonize someone. It is also a good way for you to get so angry that you begin to experience road rage. Remember to mind your own lane. If someone starts making obscene gestures, just ignore them and let them get away. Aggressive drivers are usually in a hurry to get somewhere, anyway, and within seconds they will be out sight and out of mind.

Calm Yourself

If you find yourself getting angry, just tell yourself that the person probably didn’t intend to cut you off or almost hit you. Some drivers are distracted, and others are simply inexperienced. As AAA reminds us, some aggressive drivers are normally very careful but might be having a bad day. One source of road rage is taking every slight personally when, in reality, few drivers are trying to harm you. If a few deep breaths don’t calm you, then put on some soothing music. You might also pull over to the side of the road until you calm down.

Allow Aggressive Drivers to Pass

If someone has been tailgating you for minutes, you should allow them to pass at the first available opportunity. If you see a stretch of open highway, don’t suddenly hit the accelerator to toy with the driver. Just slow down and make sure the driver has enough room to get by you.

Go to the Police if You Feel Threatened

If an aggressive driver is scaring you on the road, you can try to get to where there are other people—preferably the police station or, if you don’t know where that is, then a gas station or shopping mall. There is safety in numbers. Once you are parked, you can call 9-1-1 and report the dangerous driver.

Stay in Your Vehicle if Involved in an Accident

Some aggressive drivers might get into a collision, which is usually their fault. You can pull over to the side of the road, but we advise staying inside the vehicle until the police officer arrives. This provides you with protection. Whatever you do, avoid getting out of the vehicle.

Has an Aggressive Driver Injured You?

DJC Law is committed to obtaining fair and just compensation for motorists injured by aggressive drivers. We have built our reputation by providing passionate legal guidance in our clients’ time of need, and we are eager to help you as well. To speak with one of our attorneys, or to schedule a free consultation, please call us today at 512-888-9999.

Dan Christensen

Dan Christensen has been practicing law since 1994. He started his career working in military courts, notorious for their strict adherence to rules and procedures. For the last several years, Dan has focused his practice exclusively on representing injury victims. He has been involved in almost 200 trials during his career in numerous federal and state courts against the largest defendants, including the U.S. Government.

Years of experience: +30 years
Justia Profile: Dan Christensen
Illinois Registration Status: Active and authorized to practice law—Last Registered Year: 2024

This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of our expert legal team following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by President and Founder, Daniel J Christensen, who has more than 30 years of experience as a personal injury attorney.

How to Deal with an Aggressive Driver

Avoid Escalating the Situation

Calm Yourself

Allow Aggressive Drivers to Pass

Go to the Police if You Feel Threatened

Stay in Your Vehicle if Involved in an Accident

Has an Aggressive Driver Injured You?

Dan Christensen

Request a Free Consultation

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How to Deal with an Aggressive Driver

Avoid Escalating the Situation

Calm Yourself

Allow Aggressive Drivers to Pass

Go to the Police if You Feel Threatened

Stay in Your Vehicle if Involved in an Accident

Has an Aggressive Driver Injured You?

Dan Christensen

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