Feel like everyone has road rage these days? New research suggests they probably do. It turns out, 96% of drivers admit to being aggressive behind the wheel over the past year, according to a new study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.
Speeding, tailgating and cutting off other cars have become everyday occurrences and beyond being frustrating, they seem to be contagious. The study shows that the more drivers are exposed to aggressive driving behaviors, the more likely they are to drive aggressively.
The study also reveals:
- More than nine in 10 (92%) of drivers admit to aggressive behaviors that put others at risk, like speeding and cutting off other drivers.
- Even worse? The 11% who confess to violent acts like intentionally bumping another car or confronting another driver.
- The kind of car you drive could play a part in the way you act and how others perceive you. Those who drive big trucks, sports cars and motorcycles tend to be seen as more aggressive. And some people admit they felt more powerful and dominant when driving one of these vehicles.
- Comparing the new research to a study done by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety in 2016 shows that since then, cutting off other vehicles is up 67% and honking out of anger has increased by 47%.
- But on the positive side, tailgating is down 24% and yelling at other drivers has dropped by 17%.
- The study finds that encouraging good road etiquette may be the best way to reduce aggressive driving and road rage. Simple things like using turn signals, letting others merge and even a friendly wave can help de-escalate tension and make the roads safer for everyone.
Source: AAA⠀
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