More and more drivers have started acting out their anger when they get behind the wheel, according to a study conducted by the (American Automobile Association). The study of aggressive driving is not new (Williams,1) has received attention as a national concern. After they’ve been cut off, tailgated, or slowed down by a vehicle in front of them, these angry drivers can commit incredible acts of violence, including assaults and murder. A nationwide study by (NHTSA) of fatal crashes at traffic signals in 1999 and 2000 estimated that 20 percent of the vehicles involved failed to obey the signals. Failing to comply with traffic control devices is an indicator of aggressive driving. In 2004, more than 900 people were killed and an estimated 168,000 were injured in crashes that involved red light running. Every day we have to deal with these types of people on the road. We run a great risk whether on a long trip, or a short commute. Fortunately, there is something we can do about it.
BODY
I. The major cause of aggressive driving is discourtesy or inattentive drivers. ( Problem Step)
A. The most common trigger is the “lane hog.”
1. Other discourteous driving behaviors include but are not limited to, failing to signal, cutting off other drivers, and following too closely.
2. These actions can infuriate and trigger frustration aggression (Connell,25)
B. Conditions that contribute to aggressive driving.
1. Congested roadways and reduced enforcement by authorities.
2. Personal issues interfering with the judgment of the driver.
3. Poor planning, having to make up time and speeding.
II. AAA makes some suggestions to avoid being the target of aggressive drivers. (Solution Step)
A. Use your horn sparingly.
1. Avoid the right hand lane unless turning.
2. Don’t take up more than one space when parking.
3. Keep your headlights on low and don’t retaliate with the high beams.




B. Identify alternate routes that are less congested.
1. Use alternate means of transportation.
2. Just be late.
III. Now imagine, you are the one late for work or just can’t wait to get home. (Visualization Step)
A. Understand you cannot control traffic.
1. Before acting, ask yourself how many times have I done that same thing?
2. If you issue a challenge is it worth getting fined, injured or dying for/
B. Your actions are all you can control.
1. Adjust your attitude to the circumstances.
2. Drive defensively at all times.
3. Make it home to your family safely.
IV Here is what each of us can do to be part of the solution. (Action Step)
A. Protect yourself by not offending other drivers.
1. When you merge into traffic make sure you have plenty of room.
2. If you are in the fast lane and someone wants by, move over and let them pass.
3. Don’t tailgate other drivers and never use gestures.
B. Don’t engage another driver, one driver can’t start a fight.
1. Avoid eye contact with an aggressive driver.
2. Call 911 and report all aggressive drivers.
3. If you don’t feel safe stopping, while on the phone with police it is ok to drive somewhere that you feel safe.
CONCLUSION
Tonight we have looked at the trend of aggressive driving. We have seen that it is a growing problem throughout the nation. Aggressive driving creates a very real problem to our everyday lives. There are things we can do to ensure we don’t fall victim to aggressive drivers. Don’t become an aggressive driver, for too many motorists, driving becomes a contest. So instead of trying to “make good time,” try to make time good”.




~ bowens ~ thanx