Laguna Niguel Neighborhood News July-September 2017 July - September 2018 | Page 2

You will see other drivers doing things that are illegal,
inconsiderate and even incomprehensible. Don’t
respond personally. Most drivers are not thinking
about their impact on you; they are just rushed,
distracted or upset.
Follow the rules of the road.
• Maintain adequate following distance.
• Use turn signals.
• Allow others to merge.
• Use your high-beams responsibly.
• Tap your horn if you must (but no long blasts with
accompanying hand gestures).
What’s the difference between
aggressive driving and road rage?
Nearly one-third of all motor vehicle collisions and two-thirds of all
automobile-related fatalities involve aggressive driving, according to
the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Aggressive driving is defined as reckless performance
behind the wheel, such as:
• Speeding in heavy traffic
• Tailgating
• Cutting in front of another driver and then slowing down
• Running red lights
• Weaving in and out of traffic
• Changing lanes without signaling
• Blocking cars attempting to pass or change lanes
• Using headlights or brakes to “punish” other drivers
Road rage is malicious behavior directed at specific drivers,
which may escalate to violence.
• Cursing and rude or obscene gestures
• Throwing objects
• Ramming
• Sideswiping
• Forcing a driver off the road
• Brandishing or discharging firearms
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Manage your behavior, manage your responses.
• Allowing enough travel time so that you don’t begin your
trip stressed, hurried or impatient.
• Making your vehicle a conflict-free zone. Driving and
intense conversations don’t mix; even if you are just
debating the idiot on talk radio or responding to a bumper
sticker. Listen to relaxing music. Breathe. Stretch. Smile.
• Be considerate in parking lots. Park in one spot, not
across multiple spaces. Be careful not to hit cars next to
you with your door.
Road rage is malicious behavior
directed at specific drivers, which
may escalate to violence.
Remaining calm and courteous behind the wheel lowers
your risk of an unpleasant encounter – with another driver
and with law enforcement. Several communities now
deploy teams to target aggressive drivers. Repeat violators
may be fined, required to take anger management classes,
lose their license or serve jail time.
Dealing with confrontation:
• Avoid eye contact with angry drivers.
• Don’t respond to aggression with aggression.
• If you feel you are at risk, drive to a public place such as a
police station, hospital or fire station.
• When you park, allow room so you can pull out safely if
someone approaches you aggressively.
• Use your horn to attract attention but remain in your
locked vehicle.
• If you are confronted, stay as calm and courteous as
possible.
• If you feel threatened, call 911.