The more time you spend behind the wheel, the more likely you are to become frustrated by other motorists. Unfortunately, some people take out their frustrations by driving aggressively, which can lead to serious accidents.

If someone cuts you off in traffic or refuses to move out of the passing lane while driving slowly, what is your reaction?

You may feel your pulse quicken and your stress level rise. If you are unable to control your frustrations behind the wheel, you are at risk of aggressive driving, or road rage. 

Road Rage Cities

In its recent In the Driver’s Seat Road Rage Survey, AutoVantage sought to identify cities with the most aggressive, least courteous drivers.

According to the survey, which was based on driver behavior, attitudes and observations, cities with the least courteous drivers include Houston, Atlanta, Baltimore, Washington and Boston.

Five years ago, New York City topped the list as having the least courteous drivers. Now, New York City is number 10.

The most courteous cities included Portland, Pittsburgh, St. Louis, San Francisco and Charlotte.

Drivers reported noticing big improvements by other drivers since the same survey in 2009. They noted reductions in speeding, red-light running, tailgating, talking on cellphones and eating and drinking. However, they also reported an increase in texting behind the wheel.

Drivers were more likely to admit to assertive or aggressive driving themselves in 2014. Driver admissions of honking, cursing, making obscene gestures, and waving their fists at other drivers increased from 3 to 12 percent. 

Curb Your Frustration

Aggressive drivers are more likely to take risks when it comes to safety than other drivers. You can reduce frustration and avoid aggressive driving by following these tips:

• Leave for your destination with plenty of time to spare.
• Focus on your own driving rather than the transgressions of other drivers.
• Keep calm and learn to recognize your own frustrations before they get out of hand.
• Listen to calming music.
• Take routes less likely to end in traffic jams or frustrating conditions.
• Don’t flash your lights, tailgate or engage in other potentially dangerous driving behaviors.
• Let others pass when they want to, moving over when you can.
• Use your horn sparingly.

If you encounter another driver who is exhibiting signs of road rage, do your best to avoid confrontation. Get out of the way and allow the driver to pass. If you are concerned about your own or other drivers’ safety, call 911.