Traffic safety tips

Our traffic safety focus for the month of August is aggressive driving.

Aggressive driving is a serious safety concern that stems from deliberate choices — not external conditions. From speeding and tailgating to road rage incidents, these behaviours endanger everyone on the road. Understanding what drives this conduct and how to respond calmly can help reduce risk and promote safer travel. The information below outlines common aggressive behaviours, contributing factors, and strategies to stay composed behind the wheel and protect yourself from escalating situations.

Aggressive driving involves intentional, risky actions such as:

  • Excessive speeding or street racing
  • Running red lights or speeding through yellow lights
  • Tailgating, weaving through traffic, failing to yield
  • Impaired driving
  • Swearing, yelling, or gesturing at others
  • Honking out of annoyance
  • Taking risks for fun

Aggressive driving can be triggered by:

  • Time pressure or running late
  • Personal or work-related stress
  • Traffic congestion or detours

These can lead to impatience, anger, and frustration.

Road rage

While often used interchangeably, road rage refers to extreme cases where a driver or passenger tries to:

  • Intimidate, injure, or kill another road user
  • Damage another vehicle

Road rage involves intent to cause harm, while aggressive driving disregards safety without that intent.

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How to avoid aggressive driving

Plan ahead

  • Check traffic and weather conditions
  • Leave early to allow for delays
  • Keep contact info handy in case of delays

Minimize stress

  • If already stressed, consider transit, taxi, or ride-share
  • Reduce pressure by avoiding high stress driving situations

Allow for mistakes

  • Assume others may have made honest errors
  • Stay calm and courteous to avoid escalation

Pull over if needed

  • If emotions run high, safely pull over and take a break

Responding to aggressive drivers

Avoid Retaliation

  • Don’t make eye contact, honk, or gesture
  • Stay calm and don’t engage

Protect yourself

  • Keep doors locked and windows up
  • Leave the area or drive to a police station if threatened
  • Call 911 if in immediate danger
  • Report road rage incidents to police — don’t intervene directly

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