TENNESSEE - Aggressive driving is widespread and contagious, according to new research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. A recent survey found that 96% of licensed drivers admitted to at least one form of aggressive driving in the past year, including speeding, tailgating, red-light running, honking, or cutting off other vehicles.
The study highlights a dangerous cycle: the more drivers encounter hostility on the road, the more likely they are to respond with aggression themselves.
“Driving often turns into a high-stress experience, not just because others drive recklessly, but because we react in the moment,” said Megan Cooper, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Our research shows that even the calmest drivers can get drawn into road rage after a single hostile encounter, but with simple strategies we can all help make roads safer.”
Key Findings
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Aggressive Driving: 96% admitted to aggressive driving in the past year, mainly to save time or avoid perceived danger.
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Violent Actions: 11% acknowledged engaging in violent actions, such as bumping another car or confronting another driver.
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Top Offenders: Drivers under age 60 and those with household incomes of $100,000+ were most likely to admit to aggression. Men and women were equally aggressive, but men were more prone to violence.
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Aggression Breeds Aggression: The more drivers encounter aggressive behavior, the more likely they are to escalate.
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Vehicle Influence: Sports cars, large trucks, and motorcycles were associated with more aggressive driving. Some drivers reported feeling “more powerful” in these vehicles.
Historical Comparison - This research updates a 2016 AAA Foundation study, showing both increases and decreases in certain behaviors:
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Cutting off other vehicles: up 67%
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Honking out of anger: up 47%
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Tailgating: down 24%
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Yelling at other drivers: down 17%
Safety Advice from AAA - If You Encounter an Aggressive Driver:
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Stay Calm – Don’t make eye contact or respond.
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Give Space – Allow them to pass and maintain distance.
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Protect Yourself – Call 911 or head to a public place.
How to Control Your Own Road Rage:
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Breathe Before Reacting – A deep breath can reset your mindset.
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Don’t Take the Bait – Ignore aggressive drivers.
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Choose Time Over Tension – Leave early and avoid rushing.
About the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety - Established in 1947 by AAA, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety is a nonprofit, publicly funded 501(c)(3) charitable research and educational organization. The AAA Foundation’s mission is to prevent traffic deaths and injuries by researching their causes and by educating the public about strategies to prevent crashes and reduce injuries when they do occur. This research informs the development of educational materials for drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other road users.
About AAA - The Auto Club Group - The Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second largest AAA club in North America with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, banking and financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 65 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA’s mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on social media.
