Research finds 96% of drivers admit to driving aggressively and being on the receiving end too
If it feels like everyone has road rage these days, that’s because they probably do. According to a new study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, a staggering 96% of drivers admit to engaging in aggressive driving behaviors over the past year. From speeding and tailgating to cutting off other vehicles, aggressive driving has become a near universal experience – and it's not just frustrating, the study reveals that it appears to be contagious.
The study found that the more drivers are exposed to aggressive behavior on the road, the more likely they are to drive aggressively themselves. It also found that 92% of drivers admitted to aggressive behaviors that put others at risk, like speeding or cutting off other vehicles, and 11% admitted to violent actions such as intentionally bumping another car or confronting another driver. Their top motivators were to get to their destination faster and avoid perceived danger.
Since the last study conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety in 2016, some aggressive driving behaviors have become more common while others have declined. Since 2016, cutting off other vehicles is up 67% and honking out of anger is up 47%; while on the positive side, tailgating is down 24% and yelling at other drivers is down 17%.
“We understand that aggressive driving is a major concern for our members,” said AAA Central Penn President and CEO Jodie Daubert. “The latest research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety confirms that aggressive behavior is widespread. It’s clear that simple things like road etiquette and courtesy can make a real difference. We’re committed to working with our community to change the way we drive and achieve a safer future for all."
AAA encourages drivers to prioritize courtesy and safety to help curb aggressive driving. In fact, the study found that encouraging good road etiquette may be the most effective way to reduce aggressive driving and road rage. Simple actions like using turn signals, letting others merge, and offering a friendly wave can help de-escalate tension and create a safer, more respectful driving environment for everyone.
AAA’s top tips to manage aggressive drivers:
- Stay Calm and Don't Engage: No eye contact, no gestures, no response.
- Give Space: Let them pass and keep your distance.
- Protect Yourself: Call 911 or go to a public place. Never drive to your home.
AAA’s top tips to control your own road rage:
- Breathe Before You React: One deep breath can reset your drive.
- Don’t Take the Bait: Ignore and avoid aggressive drivers.
- Choose Time Over Tension: Leave early, give space, arrive safe.
To keep roads safe, Pennsylvania is one of 22 states that operate automated red-light cameras, one of 25 states that operate speed cameras, and one of 13 states that authorize speed cameras to be used in highway work or construction zones. Pennsylvania is also one of nine states that enacted bills in 2024 related to aggressive driving, road rage and street exhibitions.
