Dealing with Offensive and Aggressive Drivers

Let's face it. Almost anywhere you go, especially on busy streets, you'll probably encounter an offensive and aggressive driver who does not show regard for any other vehicle, driver or even pedestrians as long as he/she can squeeze or drive past quickly. They are used to cutting cars, overtaking abruptly and dangerously, driving at high speeds, disregarding road signs, counter-flowing and so on. How do you usually act when you encounter them on the road? What should you do or not do when you encounter these drivers?

Let's deal with things that you should not do first. Do not provoke them by matching their speeds and driving alongside them. In my opinion, you would just set their minds into thinking that it's ok for them to drive in such a way because you're doing it too. Plus, for those who like speed, they'll think that you're challenging them. They'd perform jackrabbit starts, accelerate like there's no tomorrow, cut through traffic, etc. Do not show them that you are interested in what they're doing.

When you encounter a really aggressive and offensive driver, what should you do? Take note of the model, make, body color and the plate number of that vehicle. You can report them to your respective government departments such as LTO (Land Transportation Office) here in the Philippines or the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) in the US. They should have a phone number to call so you could report these drivers.

But while on the road, just let them pass by or move aside. These aggressive drivers are very prone to accidents so you should stay clear of them. Honk your horn to at least alert that driver of your presence. There are cases when offensive drivers don't even care if there are other vehicles on the road or not.

I can only think of a few reasons why there are offensive and aggressive drivers out there. Some of them have no formal training when it comes to handling a car especially about defensive and safe driving. Some drivers are really emotional and tend to be more aggressive when angry, sad or extremely excited. Unfortunately, there may be some who even have mental health conditions that somehow passed the license examinations. Licensing departments should be more vigilant in testing prospective drivers.

Here's a somewhat funny story. I can vaguely remember but a taxi with a sign on its rear that reads "How's my driving? Text xxxxxx" (I don't recall the cellphone number) Now, he cut through a few cars quickly while in heavy traffic. He miscalculated his brakes and hit a van. I immediately thought of pulling over beside the taxi and ask, "Do you want me to text you the answer or have you already found it yourself?"

Well, I have experienced driving on both ends. As an emotional person, I do admit that there are very few times when I lose my temper or if I am just not in the mood to drive carefully. I tend to be aggressive at times but if I know that I'm really going to endanger myself and the others, I'd stop for a while and take a breather. I just try to relax then after a few moments, I'll be fine again. I'm more defensive when I am driving. I want to reach my destination in one piece thank you very much.