Aggressive driving behaviors can include speeding, frequent and unnecessary lane changes, tailgating, and running red or yellow lights. These behaviors create unsafe situations and can lead to road rage.
In 2016, speed was a contributing factor in 26,357 crashes in Texas, according to Texas Department of Transportation data.
Driving too fast makes it harder to react to dangerous situations, reduces a driver’s ability to steer safely around curves or objects in the roadway, and increases the force of impact in a crash.
Road rage is a physical assault of a person or vehicle as a result of a traffic incident—this is a criminal offense punishable by incarceration.
In 2016, road rage was a contributing factor in 1,054 Texas crashes, according to this TxDOT report.
What Employers Can Do
The best offense is solid defensive driving skills. Talk with your employees about the risks associated with speeding and aggressive driving. Encourage them to adopt safe habits. Here are some talking points:
Always be a cautious, considerate driver. Avoid creating a situation that may provoke another motorist:
- Don’t tailgate or flash your lights at another driver
- If you’re in the left lane and someone wants to pass, move over and let the driver pass you
- Use your horn sparingly
If you do encounter an angry driver, don’t make matters worse by triggering a confrontation:
- Avoid eye contact
- Steer clear and give angry drivers plenty of room
- Don’t make inappropriate hand or facial gestures
- If you’re concerned for your safety, call 911
Use or adapt this sample text to create your company’s policy on driving defensively while operating a motor vehicle on and off the job.