The Lexington Police Department is participating in an Aggressive Driving Enforcement Campaign to help address and prevent aggressive driving.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), aggressive drivers cause nearly 35% of all crashes and two-thirds of all fatal crashes. From July 17-31, the Lexington Police Department will have officers working dedicated overtime to deter aggressive driving.
Aggressive driving is operating a motor vehicle in a selfish or impatient manner that impacts others on the road and creates an unsafe environment.
Some behaviors of aggressive driving include:
- Running stop signs and red lights
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Weaving in-and-out of traffic
- Making hand and facial gestures
- Making verbal threats
- Screaming, honking and/or flashing lights
Here are some tips if you find yourself in a situation with an aggressive driver.
- Make every attempt to get out of their way safely.
- Do not challenge them by speeding up or attempting to hold your lane.
- Avoid eye contact and ignore gestures.
- Wear your seat belt! Not only is it the law, but it will help you if you make an abrupt driving maneuver
If an aggressive driver is following you, drive to a safe place such as the nearest police station, gas station or other place where there are people. Use your vehicle’s horn to get someone’s attention.
DO NOT GET OUT OF YOUR VEHICLE OR DRIVE HOME!
To report an aggressive driver, please call (859) 258-3600 or in an emergency 911 and provide the call taker with as much information as possible, including a vehicle description, license number, location, and, if you can, the direction of travel.
Visit the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Office of Highway Safety for more information.
