Nearly 79% of American drivers admit to aggressive behavior when behind the wheel, a AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety survey reports, with speeding as most common transgression.
The AAA survey also supports the perception that men are the biggest offenders, but before anyone says, “I told you so,” women are not far behind:
- 52% of men vs. 44% of women report speeding at least 15 miles per hour above the limit on highways;
- 35% of men vs. 28% of women report honking or gesturing at other drivers;
- 32% of men vs. 21% of women report driving aggressively or tailgating; and
- 32% of men vs. 30% of women report running red lights.
The same pattern appears to occur locally, according to the UConn Crash Data Repository. In Connecticut crashes in 2019, men made up 55% of red-light runners, 67% of speeders, and 81% of aggressive/reckless drivers. Males ages 17-25 were the biggest offenders.
“When it comes to driving, we really need to tame our tempers,” said Fran Mayko, AAA Northeast spokeswoman. “Especially during this pandemic, people are understandably stressed, but drivers can’t let that stress make them a danger on the road.”
In 2019, Bridgeport had the most speed-related crashes in the state, Waterbury led in aggressive driving crashes, and New Haven had the most red-light running crashes, according to the repository.
“Driving aggressively or speeding aren’t worth the risk,” said Mayko. “When you get behind the wheel, be patient, be kind, and obey traffic laws so everyone gets home safely.”
AAA offers these tips to help drivers manage aggressive driving scenarios:
- Don’t Offend: Never cause another driver to change their speed or direction. That means not forcing another driver to use their brakes or turn the steering wheel in response to something you have done.
- Be Tolerant and Forgiving: The other driver may just be having a really bad day. Assume it’s not personal.
- Do Not Respond: Avoid eye contact, don’t make gestures, maintain space around your vehicle, and contact 9-1-1 if needed.
For more information, visit www.aaa.com/preventroadrage.