Being safe against aggressive driving Published March 9, 2006 By Gerald Nunez 60th Medical Group Safety/Resource Protection Manager TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- It does not take long to find examples of aggressive driving on our roadways. Most of us see it every day — the road racer, the distracter, the tailgater, the frequent lane changer and the red light runner. The atmosphere created by aggressive drivers is scary. Aggressive drivers display one or more of the following: -Express frustration. Drivers climb into the anonymity of an automobile and take out their frustrations on anybody at any time. Their emotions are high, and the concern for fellow motorists is low. -Lack attention to driving. Distractions from driving are a major cause of roadway crashes. Motorists are often seen eating, drinking, primping and shaving as they drive. Some even make their automobiles a “home away from home,” complete with fax machines and laptop computers. -Tailgate. Tailgating is a serious hazard and is a major cause of crashes often resulting in serious injuries. -Make frequent, unnecessary lane changes. Drivers who whip in and out of lanes merely to advance one car length ahead are a danger to other motorists. -Rubberneck. Slowing down to look at an incident is a natural human reaction. But this behavior slows traffic, causes congestion and may lead to another car crash. -Run red lights. Disregarding traffic signals is a leading cause of urban crashes. -Speed. Going faster than the posted speed limit, being a “road racer,” going too fast for conditions, and weaving in and out of traffic are some examples of speeding. Help get the word out to others! Discuss aggressive driving with members of your family and friends. You can help eliminate the problem by: -Realizing that traffic accidents are caused by the way we drive. Motor vehicle crashes are not inevitable — they are avoidable! -Reducing your stress when you drive. Allow plenty of time for the trip and understand that you cannot control the traffic, only your reaction to it. In the end, you may discover personal frustration, anger, and impatience may be the most dangerous “drugs” on the highway. -Assuming other drivers’ mistakes are not personal. Be polite and courteous, even if the other driver is not and avoid a conflict if possible. If another driver challenges you, take a deep breath, and move out of the way. Never underestimate the other driver’s capacity for mayhem. -Reporting aggressive drivers. Some states have cellular telephone numbers motorists can use to report dangerous driving, keep the number handy. Make sure you give a good vehicle description, license number, the location, and direction of travel. -Being a courteous driver yourself. For more information, contact the David Grant USAF Medical Center’s Safety/Resource Protection Manager at 423-3896.