Aggressive drivers are responsible for a considerable number of car accidents every year. In one study, researchers found aggressive driving contributed to more than half of all the fatal collisions they reviewed. Should you come across this kind of person in traffic, follow these tips to reduce the risk of getting seriously hurt. 

3 Tips for Dealing With Aggressive Drivers 

1. Avoid Escalating the Situation 

It may be tempting to react if someone cuts you off or follows too closely, but lashing out is only going to escalate the situation. Since you have no way of knowing who you’re dealing with—or what they're capable of—it’s in your best interests to try to mitigate the conflict.

Do not make eye contact with the other motorist or gesture at their vehicle. Additionally, you should only use your horn if doing so is necessary for preventing a car accident. 

2. Do Not Assert Your Right of Way 

If you happened to have the right of way before the motorist made some kind of aggressive maneuver, you may want to cut them off too on principle. While this is a perfectly natural instinct, acting on it is unwise.

Since engaging only increases the risk of ending up in a wreck, get as far away from the other vehicle as possible. Slow down or pull over for a moment to put distance between you and the aggressive driver. 

3. Report the Vehicle 

Make a note of the vehicle’s make, model, color, and direction of travel once it is safe to do so. If you can get the license plate number without tailgating, write it down, as well. After pulling over, call the local police and inform them of what you witnessed. If officers are able to locate the offender, it just might prevent a tragedy. 

While these strategies can reduce the risk of getting in a car accident, there’s no foolproof way to avoid aggressive drivers in traffic. If you get struck by a reckless motorist despite your best efforts to avoid them, turn to Reed & Terry. With three offices in the Greater Houston area, they’re proud to counsel injured parties throughout western Texas. Backed by more than 50 years of experience, they have the knowledge and resources to secure sizable payouts on behalf of their clients. To request a consultation with a strategic car accident attorney on their team, call (281) 491-5000. Learn more about the firm online.