Weekly Tool Box Talk – Driving Aggressively

By Meg Whynot-Young

School will be back in session next week for most towns in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, and that means that not only will traffic be heavier, but also that school buses full of children will be out on the road. This timely safety talk will help keep everyone safe while we all adjust to new schedules.

Aggressive driving is the operation of a motor vehicle in an unsafe and hostile manner without regard for others.  It often occurs when a driver is frustrated, impatient or irritable.

Speeding can lead drivers to follow too closely; change lanes frequently, or abruptly, without signaling; pass on the shoulder or unpaved portions of the roadway and even harass motorists who just happen to be in front of them.

Aggressive driving may also include running stop signs and red lights, passing stopped school buses, failing to keep right, driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs and reckless driving. 

The following are ways to avoid becoming an aggressive driver:

Allow for enough travel time to reach your destination on time. 

If you are running late, call ahead.

Alter your schedule to avoid driving during peak highway congestion periods. 

Don’t; drive when you are angry, upset or overly tired. 

Make your vehicle comfortable.  Listen to relaxing music, and avoid situations that raise your anxiety.

When driving, relax and remain aware of your posture.  Loosen your grip on the steering wheel.

Give others the benefit of the doubt; be polite, courteous and forgiving. 

You can control your reaction to other drivers.  If someone drives aggressively, do not retaliate and stay clear of him or her.