Aggressive driving poses a serious threat on the road, whether someone is tailgating, making erratic lane changes, or speeding. Although these behaviors are usually minor inconveniences that end once the other driver passes you, road rage can sometimes escalate situations to a dangerous level. Whether an angry driver wrecks their car into yours or threatens physical violence, you need to be prepared to act to protect yourself. In particularly bad cases, an irate driver may even attempt to follow you to your house or other destination. We understand how terrifying it can be to have a stranger following you on the road and put together this article to help you handle such a situation.
Recognizing That You’re in a Dangerous Situation
The first step to getting out of your situation is confirming that you are actually being followed by another driver. You may notice that another car is tailing you closely, even when you change speeds or merge into another lane. The other driver may mimic your turns and stay behind you even if you take a roundabout way to your destination that would not make sense for another driver to follow. In this situation, it’s natural to feel stress, anxiety, and fear. Even though this is a scary situation, it’s important to stay calm and take the necessary steps to ensure your safety.
Immediate Actions to Take
Your primary goal should be to avoid leading the aggressive driver to your home or destination. Even if you’re close to your home, do not drive directly there. Instead, change up your route by making unexpected turns. If there is a nearby police or highway patrol station, head towards it. The presence of law enforcement oftentimes scares away a pursuer with ill intent. You can also pull into a fire station, a well-lit shopping center parking lot, or even a busy gas station. In most cases, you will be safer around other people.
Avoid isolated areas or deserted streets. Even if the pursuing vehicle appears to pull over, do not do so until you are in a high-traffic location where you can find help. Pulling over in a secluded location makes you more vulnerable.
Seeking Help and Ensuring Safety
If you feel unsafe, call 911 right away. Report the situation in as much detail as possible. Provide the dispatcher with the pursuing vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate number if you can read it. As you remain on the phone with the dispatcher, continue driving towards a safe location. You can ask the dispatcher to guide you to the nearest police or fire station, where trained personnel can provide immediate assistance. Otherwise, seek a crowded and well-lit area. You can use your vehicle’s horn and hazard lights to alert others to the situation.
After the Incident
Once you have successfully made it to a safe location, you need to give an in-person statement to the responding law enforcement officers. Give a detailed description of exactly what happened, including the route you took, when you first saw the aggressive driver, the time of the incident, and a description of the suspect’s vehicle. If there were witnesses or you have dashcam footage of the incident, provide this information to law enforcement as well.
If you are concerned that your pursuer may know where you live, consider enhancing your home security. You can make your residence more secure by adding a surveillance system, alarms, and more outdoor lighting. Ensure that all doors and windows are locked and other entry points are secure. If you don’t feel safe staying home alone following the incident, invite a family member or friend to stay the night or spend a few days elsewhere. A mental health professional or loved one can provide support if you’re feeling shaken after the experience.
Protecting Yourself From Strangers on the Road
Being followed by an aggressive driver is a frightening experience. Although it can be challenging to respond calmly to the situation, you can protect yourself by remaining collected and heading to a safe location right away. Remember to contact law enforcement as soon as possible and follow the dispatcher’s instructions to give yourself the best chance of a positive outcome to the situation. Preparing for such a situation in advance can be helpful, so you know what to do if an aggressive driver makes you feel unsafe. We hope this article helps you and your loved ones stay safe this summer!