Missouri saw an increase in aggressive driving incidents over the last few years, with 2021 reporting the highest number of traffic and accident fatalities in over 15 years. Although failure to wear a seat belt is a common denominator in many of these situations, a trend in aggressive driving took root in 2020 that contributes to the number of reported accidents.
There is a strategic safety plan in place across the state to help reduce the number of fatalities, but the real solution lies with changing driving behaviors. Aggressive driving is more than just an emotional response to the traffic, construction or the actions of other drivers.
Defining aggressive driving
Though driving with the intent to annoy, harass or frustrate another driver is a part of aggressive behaviors, a more comprehensive list includes reckless or careless decisions on the road. They fall under these categories:
- Illegal turns
- Reckless or erratic driving.
- Failing to obey traffic signs or signals
- Speeding
- Illegal passing
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Tailgating or following too closely
Resolving aggressive driving
The Missouri State Patrol has an active role in promoting highway safety and safe drivers, and there are consequences for those caught engaging in these activities or causing an accident because of them. The statewide campaign the help reduce traffic fatalities and improve driver safety focuses on four easy solutions. The Show-Me Zero campaign asks drivers to slow down, buckle up, drive sober and put the phone down.
Play your part in keeping Missouri roads safe. Be courteous on the road and pay attention to all posted signs and signals.
