Have you ever been late for an appointment when you find yourself speeding, tailgating to get other vehicles out of your way and then getting angry when they don’t move? That’s called Aggressive Driving and it’s the focus of February’s Safe Driving campaign.
The reported number of aggressive driving incidents has increased over the last few years resulting in an increase in the number of people killed and injured by motor vehicles.
The Midland Police Department Traffic Safety Team will conduct an aggressive driver enforcement effort Feb. 11 – 25. During this time, officers will work in teams and individually, in marked and unmarked police vehicles, in order to stop aggressive drivers.
If you have any questions about this or any other traffic programs please contact the Midland Police Department shift supervisor at 839-4713.
Following are some tips for motorists as well as for other Midland residents.
Characteristics of Aggressive Drivers:
· Tailgating
· Passing on the shoulder of the road
· Making rude gestures or shouting
· Violating traffic signals
· Weaving in and out of traffic
· Speeding
How to Avoid Aggressive Drivers:
· Don’t challenge the aggressive driver
· Don’t respond with a counterattack or obscene gestures
· Safely move out of their way
· Avoid eye contact
· Get help from police, if necessary
·
FIDO – Forget it and drive on
If you feel the
urge to drive aggressive, try these tips:
·
Leave earlier to avoid the need for speeding
·
Try to relax and stay calm
·
Listen to relaxing music
·
Obey the speed limit
·
Be courteous to other drivers