Aggressive driving has almost become a common and expected driving response. There are ways to handle someone who has decided to “get even” behind the wheel.

Are you an aggressive driver?

Do you:

• Speed up when someone tries to pass you?
• Tailgate people who are going slower than you?
• Weave in and out of traffic?
• Pass cars on the right?
• Flash your headlights at vehicles?
• Overuse your horn?
• Make obscene gestures?
• Yell out your window at people?
• Race for a position on the highway?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration considers some of these behaviors aggressive. So next time, think twice before doing any of these things.

To avoid an encounter with an aggressive driver, remember these tips:

• Don't block the passing lane.
• Avoid blocking the right-hand turn lane.
• Don't take more than one parking space.
• Don't tailgate.
• Don't stop in the road to talk with a pedestrian or other drivers.
• If you travel slowly, pull over to allow traffic to pass you.
• Avoid eye contact with an aggressive driver.
• Keep your eyes on the road.
• Keep away from erratic drivers.
• Don't challenge other drivers by speeding up to hold your own in your travel lane.
• Ignore gestures; do not return them.