Why You Should Learn Defensive Driving In Arizona
After having my drivers license for years on end, I still find myself surprised by just how unpredictable the roads really are.
Weather, road safety, and any number of other issues can make driving in any state a nightmare, no matter how skilled you are behind the wheel.
One problem reigns supreme in the Grand Canyon State.
Arizona's Road Rage Issues
In 2023, Arizona was ranked as the worst state for road rage in the country. It was a sobering moment for Arizona drivers, as we had to realize that the aggression we see on roadways is not, in fact, normal.
This year, Arizona dropped all the way to the number 14 spot, but that doesn't mean the issues are gone. In the study, 36% of Arizona drivers claimed that they had been intentionally blocked from switching lanes, 42% had been cut off, and 59% were heavily tailgated. This doesn't even mention the fatal results of road rage, with altercations and fights breaking out between drivers leaving some or all severely injured.
How Can We Fix This?
While Arizona is no longer the worst state for confrontational drivers, that doesn't mean there isn't work to be done. As I already mentioned, there is still a litany of issues that need to be rectified, and the most important is escalation.
The best thing you can do to avoid an altercation is simply to ignore it. People who drive poorly will likely use your reaction to up the ante, but if you continue driving as you had, they'll likely fall apart.
While on the road, stay safe, stay aware, and most importantly, stay calm.
[Forbes]
[ABC9]
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