In the United States, one third of all vehicle accidents occur due to the reckless driving of one party. All drivers should know how to recognize an aggressive or reckless driver out on the road and should know how to cautiously handle the situation to ensure the safety of all everyone in the vehicle.

Signs of Reckless Driving

Aggressive driving is defined by that National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) as an incident when "an individual commits a combination of moving traffic offenses so as to endanger other persons or property." Some signs of reckless or aggressive driving can include:

• Running stop signs and red lights and failing to yield
• Rude gestures and displaying vocal and physical frustration
• Tailgating
• Failure to use turn signals
• Failure to exercise caution around pedestrians and bicyclists
• Turning too quickly around corners
• Switching lanes frequently and weaving through traffic

How to Avoid Aggressive Drivers

At some point, you may be confronted with a reckless driver. In an aggressive situation, it is important to remember some common-sense tips to keep yourself safe in this situation.

• Slow down and get out of the way of the reckless driver. Give the driver ample room to pass without endangering oncoming traffic.
• Resist the urge to challenge the driver or retaliate with your own aggressive driving. Keep safety in mind.
• Ignore any rude behavior from the driver and do not make eye contact, which may encourage or further anger an aggressive driver.
• Report the driver to the local authorities once you are no longer involved in the situation. Note the vehicle description, location, and if possible, the license plate number.

Prevent Aggressive Driving Habits

Don't become an aggressive driver! Reckless driving results in serious accidents and fatalities that could have been prevented had motorists taken proper precautions. To avoid driving recklessly or aggressively,

• Calm down. No matter how frustrated you are, always keep the safety of other drivers and passengers in mind.
• Plan ahead. If you will be driving in traffic, leave early to allow yourself to arrive on time to your destination. Find alternative routes to use in case of traffic congestion.
• Focus on the road. Distractions like cell phones, eating, and CD players can cause reckless driving behaviors.
• Consider alternate transportation methods. Although it may sometimes take longer than driving, public transportation provides estimated arrival times to your destination based on traffic figures, helping you get places on time. In addition, while riding public transportation, you are free to read or work and are not required to pay attention to driving. Some people find relief from the morning commute by riding a bicycle to work, increasing physical activity while sometimes even reducing travel time and parking woes.

For more information on safe driving and car accident prevention, visit the website of the Rhinelander car accident lawyers of Habush Habush & Rottier, S.C.