When driving, you may occasionally encounter other motorists who speed, tailgate, or cut in front of you. If this results in an accident, you may become injured, deal with costly auto repairs, and have to pay higher insurance rates. Knowing how to respond to aggressive drivers can keep you safe and minimize the possibility of accidents. Here’s how to stay calm and react appropriately in this situation.

How to Deal With Aggressive Drivers

1. Adjust Your Speed

When another vehicle tailgates you, you may not be going fast enough. Check the speed limit, then look at your odometer, and accelerate if necessary. However, if a person gets too close while you’re going the speed limit, put on your turn signal, check your rearview mirror and blind spots, and safely change lanes. 

2. Don’t Provoke Them

Aggressive drivers often have road rage and may become more reckless when provoked. Don’t use your horn, make offensive hand gestures, or yell out the window in response to hostile driving. Remain calm and collected to deescalate the situation and prevent accidents. 

3. Pull Over

If you don’t see a way to safely get out of a situation involving an aggressive driver, pull over to the side of the road or the nearest parking lot. If an aggressive driver makes you feel nervous or intimidated, pull over and rest for ten minutes or until you feel calm. Anxious driving may result in an accident and increase insurance rates. 

4. Let Them Pass

When you get tailgated by an aggressive driver while you’re going the correct speed, don’t accelerate just to appease them. Avoid a potential accident by continuing your trajectory at the same speed and letting them pass you. 

If you want protection on the roads, get coverage from Kleppinger Insurance, LLC, in Bethlehem, PA. They provide auto and homeowners insurance with the option to bundle policies to clients throughout the Tri-State area. Call (484) 357-1485 to discuss your options with an insurance agent, or visit their website to submit a free insurance quote request.