Though you may be one of the safest drivers on the road, you cannot control the actions and decisions of other drivers. For this reason, you and your passengers may still be at high risk for an accident and injuries even if you obey all traffic laws and drive defensively. One of the most dangerous actions of other drivers is aggressive driving.

While everyone can become frustrated with traffic, slow drivers, or other less-than-ideal road conditions, some drivers over-react and let their reactions affect their driving behaviors. Aggressive drivers tend to engage in very risky behaviors, including speeding, following too closely on purpose, frequent and sudden lane changes often without signaling, threatening or rude gestures, excessive and harassing honking, yelling, or even following motorists off the road to harass them. If you encounter an aggressive driver, the risk of accidents is high. You should always know how to handle the situation in the best way possible to keep you and your family safe.

Try to move out of their way as quickly as possible — If an aggressive driver is tailgating or trying to get around you, try to switch lanes whenever possible to let them by. Additionally, if you know you will be driving relatively slowly for some reason, try to stay out of the passing lane whenever possible.

Ignore any yelling or gestures — If someone is being rude to you on the road, try to stay calm and ignore them. Responding with your own words, gestures, or even a negative look can often enrage the other driver more.

Do not get out of your car — If you are challenged by an aggressive driver, make sure everyone in the vehicle is safely buckled in with the doors locked and windows up. In the event that an aggressive driver follows you off the highway or into a parking lot, do not get out of your car and keep driving if you can.

Report them to authorities — If an aggressive driver is being dangerous, you should call law enforcement and report the driver’s behavior as well as the vehicle description and location, license plate number, and any other helpful information. Reporting aggressive drivers can help prevent injury to you and others on the road.

If you are ever injured in an accident caused by an aggressive driver, you should seek medical attention and then consult with an experienced attorney who knows how to handle this type of case.