Definition of Aggressive Driving

Most people are familiar with the terms passive and aggressive driving, but few know what they actually mean. Would you know either of these two things if you saw them on the street? If it has been a while since you were in traffic school, or if you are preparing for traffic school online, it will be helpful to take a fresh look at the definition of "aggressive driving."

Aggressive driving is a manner of operating a vehicle that is likely to cause danger to other drivers, or anger others on the roadway. While some drivers are blatantly aggressive for no reason, others may be using some aggressive driving tactics without knowing it. Below is a quick list of some of the most common aggressive driving behaviors.

Gesturing to Other Drivers

This one should be obvious to anyone who has spent any time behind the wheel. Making obscene or other confrontational gestures to other people on the road is considered aggressive driving and could lead to an escalating situation.

Using Your Horn Excessively

There are times when it is acceptable to use your horn - when warning another car of impending trouble - and there are times when you should keep your hand off the horn. If you are using your horn out of anger, chances are you are exhibiting an aggressive driving behavior.

Tailgating another Car

The practice of 'tailgating' is simply following another vehicle too closely. Keeping a safe following distance is something that you learn early on in your driving experience, as following too close is a recipe for trouble. All drivers should keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of them to avoid creating the conditions for a possible crash.

Blocking the Left Lane

Believe it or not, aggressive driving can include tactics that might not seem aggressive at all. One of the best examples of this is driving slowly in the passing lane. If you are blocking the left lane while others behind you are waiting to pass, you should move over and allow them to go by.

Avoiding the behaviors of aggressive driving will make your experience on the road safer for you and those around you. Good driving really doesn't have to be complicated at all - simply pay attention to your surroundings, be courteous to other drivers, and don't use any of the aggressive driving tactics listed above. If everyone on the road would drop these aggressive behaviors, we would all be able to travel much safer.

Resource: http://www.nhtsa.gov/people/injury/research/aggressive/final.rpt.html

NTSI offers an online "aggressive driving" course that takes place completely online. NTSI helps drivers take responsibility for their aggressive driving behaviors.