Traffic Unit - Aggressive Driving Facts

Are You and Aggressive Driver? In a given circumstance it might be any of us. It is any driver operating a motor vehicle in a selfish, high-risk, or reckless manner, thereby endangering him- or herself, some other person, or someone's property.

A Driver is considered an Aggressive Driver when he or she:

• Drives at Excessive Speeds
• Makes Frequent or Unsafe Lane Changes
• Fails to Signal Lane Changes
• Tailgates Another Vehicle
• Fails to Yield the Right-of-Way
• Disregards Traffic Control Signs or Signals
• Is Impaired by Drugs or Alcohol

These driving behaviors are both unsafe and unlawful. Aggressive Drivers threaten our safety on the highway. There were over 2,880 traffic related deaths on Florida highways in 1998 alone.

Reduce Driving Stress

Aggressive Driving is often attributed to stress. Here are some ways of Reducing Driving Stress:

• Allow enough time that delays will not be stressful.
• Alter your schedule to avoid driving during periods of peak highway congestion.
• Improve the comfort of your vehicle. Listen to relaxing music; avoid music and talk radio that raises your anxiety.
• Relax and remain cognizant of your posture and physical condition
• Don't drive when you're angry, upset, or overly tired
• Give other drivers the benefit of the doubt: Often the driver is unfamiliar with the area and is preoccupied with finding an address, street or exit
• Be polite courteous and forgiving
• Don't get involved in a confrontation with another driver

It Can Cost You

Aggressive driving can cost you in ways you may not have considered. Aggressive driving can lower your gas mileage by as much as 33% at highway speeds and 5% around town! Gas mileage decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph. Each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.10 per gallon for gas. Observing the speed limit is also safer.