What is aggressive driving?

Aggressive driving refers to unsafe driving behavior that shows a disregard for others on the road. It is less extreme than "road rage" that includes escalation of a disagreement between drivers to physical violence. Aggressive behavior includes tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, changing lanes improperly, passing in no-passing zones, cutting in front of other drivers, speeding, and running stop signs or traffic lights. Yelling, excessive use of the horn, and inappropriate hand gestures are also considered forms of aggressive behavior.

Is aggressive driving against the law?

Arizona, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Nevada, North Carolina, Rhode Island, Utah, and Virginia are among the states that have enacted aggressive driving legislation or have amended their reckless driving laws to include aggressive driving behavior. The Arizona law defines aggressive driving as speeding plus at least two other unsafe driver actions such as failure to obey a traffic signal, passing on the right, unsafe lane change, tailgating, or failing to yield the right of way. The Georgia law is broader and prohibits operating a vehicle with the intent to annoy, harass, or obstruct another person. In Virginia, judges can order aggressive drivers to participate in anger management classes.

What are states doing to discourage aggressive driving?

States have implemented public information and education programs that are designed to promote courteous driving. States have also increased enforcement efforts as a way to discourage aggressive driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has developed an enforcement program that targets aggressive driving. This program has been implemented in more than half the states.

Copyright 2010 LexisNexis, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc.