10 Tips for Avoiding Conflict

Spending a lot of your time on the road comes with its frustrations: congestion, inconsiderate drivers, unpredictable pedestrians, motorcyclists and cyclists, and adverse weather conditions to name but a few. Fortunately many of these are just minor niggles. However, a growing problem that many drivers are now confronted by is road rage.

Although most road users have the common goal of getting from A to B as safely as possible, there are some who are in a bit more of a hurry and whose driving you may consider to be on the aggressive side. Tailgating, speeding and dangerous overtaking are just some examples of what you may have experienced by others.

What can you do to avoid conflict if someone nearby is driving dangerously and has taken exception to the way you’re driving or is becoming aggressive towards you? To avoid putting yourself in danger in such a situation we’ve put together some simple strategies that you can use to keep your cool and resolve things appropriately.

Conflict avoidance

• Slow down or pull over to let an aggressive or irrational driver behind you pass
• If you notice another road user driving aggressively stay away from the situation
• Avoid using your horn if someone is impeding your driving – it might wind them up and antagonise them further if you’re beeping at them
• Give other drivers plenty of space – keep your distance and avoid erratic manoeuvres
• If you make a mistake, acknowledge it by immediately raising your hand – hopefully this will pacify the other driver
• Avoid eye contact with aggressive drivers
• Do not use obscene gestures
• Do not drive home if you think you’re being followed
• Contact the police and/or drive to a police station if you feel that you’re in danger
• If an angry driver approaches your van then don’t get out. Ensure your windows are up and the doors are locked and try and drive to a safe place such as a police station or a crowded area. If it’s impossible to avoid face to face contact then remain polite and courteous regardless of the other driver’s behaviour

Road rage is a growing problem on Britain’s roads. If you find yourself faced with an angry driver then by adopting some of the above tips you’ll hopefully be able to avoid a conflict and continue your journey safely.

Related articles

• Road Safety: Distractions
• Road Safety: Speeding
• Safer van driving

The information contained within this article is for general information purposes only, it does not constitute advice. Direct Line endeavours to keep the information up to date and correct but does not make any representation or warranties of any kind about its completeness, accuracy, reliability or suitability. Any reliance you place on the information is strictly at your own risk. Direct Line will not be liable for any direct or indirect loss or damage arising out of or in connection with the use of this information.