Most of us have encountered impatient drivers on the road who, after being overtaken, flash their headlights, honk their horns and even yell through the open window. If you don’t miss it, such a “rush” goes sharply to the right, overtakes and can even slow down in retaliation for you. There are even provocateurs who do not slow down with a pedal, but with a parking brake. In this case, the traffic light will not illuminate.
Scenarios may differ, but they all lead to one thing: a road emergency, according to a study by the German Mobility Union and the Goslar Institute. Experts advise to always remain calm in such situations.
Common Driver Mistakes
Many react instinctively to aggressive driving: first they get scared, then they drive faster and eventually they get angry. This reaction has a negative effect on driving safety.
There is a misconception that if you drive in the left lane without breaking the traffic rules, you don’t have to give in to anyone. Still, it remains safer to clear the lane for the reckless driver.
Ignoring the aggression of another driver can only make the situation worse and lead to an accident or a fight. Often both.
How to avoid a traffic conflict?
Researchers recommend regular monitoring of the traffic situation via the rear-view mirror. This way you can determine in good time whether you are hindering faster cars.
Also, don’t be tempted to break the rules. Excessive speed and sudden maneuvers can lead to an accident.
What to do if an aggressive driver honks from behind?
In order not to cause an accident in such a situation, experts recommend remembering three rules:
- Stay calm in any situation, even if the flashing car gets too close to you.
- Be extremely careful. Out of fear, you can press the gas hard and hit the vehicle in front or make a sharp maneuver and also be the culprit of an accident.
- Under no circumstances succumb to provocations from sudden braking or indecent gestures directed at you.
Don’t try to “reason” this driver by repeatedly pressing the brake pedal. The safest thing to do is to smoothly change lanes to the right and apologize with a gesture or an emergency mob.
What is the penalty for aggressive driving?
There are plenty of impatient drivers in every country. In Germany, for example, if the fact of aggressive driving is proven, the perpetrator risks a large fine or a prison sentence of up to three years. If the driving distance was simply violated, the offender risks a fine of up to 400 euros, depending on the speed. If you get two penalty points, you will be banned from driving for three months.
In our country, the penalty for aggressive or dangerous driving is under discussion.
Source: Z R
