The holidays are supposed to be a happy time of year where we spend time with our family and friends. Unfortunately, the peace and joy of the holiday season is sometimes hard to find when you share Georgia’s roads with aggressive drivers.
If you feel like you encounter more aggressive drivers over the holidays, you are correct. A recent study by Kelley Blue Book found that some cities saw 20% higher rates of aggressive driving during the holiday months than other times of the year.
Aggressive driving encompasses many different types of behavior. Speeding, blowing a horn repeatedly, tailgating and brake checking other drivers are examples of aggressive driving.
Why are drivers more aggressive during the holidays?
There are many reasons drivers become more aggressive during the holidays. They may be stressed and tired from holiday traveling, holiday gatherings or angry at the extra traffic that is common around this time of year.
Here are some tips to remember to protect yourself against aggressive drivers this holiday season.
Pay attention and drive defensively. Watch for signs of aggressive driving. If you see another driver engaging in aggressive driving behavior, such as tailgating or swerving between lanes, avoid them and let them go by. It is usually best not to pass them.
Being confronted by an aggressive driver
Sometimes an aggressive driver will appear to target you. Do your best to safely move away from them. Do not match the behavior.
For example, if an aggressive driver speeds up behind you and starts tailgating you, do not brake check them. Slowly move over into another lane.
Intoxication may sometimes cause aggressive driving. If you believe another driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, pull over to a safe place and alert law enforcement to protect others on the road.
Try not to become an aggressive driver yourself
Holiday travel sometimes means getting lost or falling behind schedule. Always give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination and remember that being late is better than being in a car accident. Expect that it will take you longer than usual to get places because of bad weather or holiday traffic.
When you are stressed, do not take it out on other drivers. This can cause them to become aggressive in response, increasing the chance of a serious or deadly accident.
Try not to drive when you are tired or stressed. Consider putting off or even cancelling plans that involve a long drive if you believe it could impact your driving behavior.
Being the victim of an aggressive driver can cause you major injuries is a tragedy you and your family do not need during this time of year. If this happens to you, it is wise to learn about your legal options.