The state of Pennsylvania reported a record low of road fatalities in 2019, but the issue is still present throughout the state, with 1,059 fatalities being reported that year. With driving under the influence and driver distraction both being contributing factors to Pennsylvania’s traffic accidents, aggressive driving is another problem throughout the state, affecting residents of Kersey and elsewhere in the state. Whether you commute to work daily or only take to the road occasionally, here’s what you need to know.
The threat of aggressive drivers
Aggressive driving involves drivers that engage in aggressive behaviors while on the road. This can encompass a myriad of things, such as running traffic lights, disobeying road signs, tailgating vehicles, and unnecessarily speeding, to name a few. Speeding is the number one offense in terms of aggressive driving behaviors, according to Tom Vulakovich, Hampton Township Police Chief. As one can imagine, these behaviors can easily lead to accidents, making it extremely dangerous for anyone on the road. In fact, aggressive driving behaviors are some leading factors of highway crashes and fatalities in Pennsylvania, according to Penn Dot, proving the matter to be serious and widespread. However, there are a number of things that can be done to reduce this preventable issue — from individual responsibility to a crackdown of enforcement.
A statewide solution?
It’s important to take into account that everyone can do their part in keeping the roads safe. For example, in the event that you see an aggressive driver on the road, it’s imperative that you stay calm, move out of the way (if possible), and report the driver to local enforcement. Vehicles that are equipped with voice assistance can prove to be an asset in such a situation (such as the Nissan Maxima), as well as those that make you feel protected in the event of an accident — like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. On the other hand, it’s also equally important to prevent yourself from becoming an aggressive driver by always being mindful of your own driving habits — such as maintaining the marked speed limit, yielding when necessary, and always obeying traffic laws.
Due to the detrimental effects that aggressive driving behaviors can bring, police have implemented waves of aggressive driving enforcement in 2019-20 in an effort to curb the issue. The second wave, for example, took place from March 16th to April 26th, 2020. The second wave resulted in the recording of 2,678 enforcement contacts and an impressive 1,924 citations/arrests during the wave. That said, the second wave alone highlights just how prevalent the issue is, with hopes that the enforcement periods can not only shed some light on the situation but reduce such incidents statewide in the near future.
While there are a number of causes for traffic accidents and fatalities throughout the state of Pennsylvania, aggressive driving behavior is also a major concern. While the aggressive driving enforcement waves act to crack down on the issue, there are still things that you can do to help curb the issue yourself — such as being mindful of your own driving.