Aggressive or reckless driving has been reported to increase the risk of traffic accidents. Definitions of aggressive driving are considered and it was suggested that the most functional definition was one that put emphasis on deliberate and wilful driving behaviour that, whilst not intending to harm or frighten other road users, shows disregard for their safety and wellbeing. Aggressive driving styles that increased the risk of traffic accidents include excessive speeding, tailgating, failure to yield the right of way for other road users and red-light running. Rude gesturing, flashing headlights and shouting did not appear to increase the accident risk. Studies suggest that the prevalence of aggressive driving is likely to increase where progress is slowed due to unexpected obstructions or the unexpected behaviour of other road users. Male drivers, particularly young males, report more aggressive acts in traffic than females. New cars, particularly those with a sporty image, are driven more aggressively than older ones. The use of unmarked police cars is one strategy for reducing aggressive driving. Other measures include anger-management courses and increased media attention.
Abstract