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See an aggressive driver? Don't contribute to problem

Speeding, tailgating, unsafe passing and running lights or stop signs are aggressive driving behaviors that quickly can turn roads deadly.

ITD is partnering with law enforcement agencies across Idaho to make highways safer by providing federal funding for education efforts and increased aggressive driving enforcement patrols through Aug. 13.

“August has the highest rate of fatal and serious injury aggressive driver crashes,” said Josephine O’Connor from ITD’s Office of Highway Safety. “Male drivers are represented in 71 percent of fatal aggressive driving crashes in Idaho.”

Aggressive driving was a contributing factor in almost half of all crashes in the state in 2011.

“Avoid being an aggressive driver by planning ahead and allowing extra time,” O’Connor advises. “Concentrate on driving, relax, drive the posted speed limit and just be late if pressed for time.”

She added that if confronted by an aggressive driver, safely get out of the way. Do not challenge the driver by speeding up or attempting to hold-your-own in your travel lane, avoid eye contact and ignore gestures.

“Remember that getting to your destination safely and protecting you and your passengers are the goals,” O’Connor said.
The highway safety mobilization is part of the department's commitment to achieve a goal of zero deaths on Idaho’s highways.