Arizona has ‘most confrontational drivers’

Local resident Madison Faucett was run off the road on State Route 347 last week. 

Faucett is one of thousands of Maricopa residents who were likely involved in a road rage incident this year, according to a survey by Forbes. 

Forbes ranked Arizona as the state with the most confrontational drivers, with 4 in 5 drivers reporting that they had been yelled at, insulted or threatened while driving in the state. 

About half of all Arizona respondents said they’ve been cut off on purpose and blocked from changing lanes. One in 5 reported being forced off the road. 

About one-third of respondents said another driver has exited their vehicle to yell at or try to fight with them. 

The top reasons for road rage included heavy traffic, followed by already feeling stressed and running late, according to the survey. 

The American Automobile Association told us there are a few behaviors that seem to enrage other drivers, including cutting someone off, driving slowly in the left lane, tailgating and obscene gestures. AAA noted most road rage incidents go unreported. 

AAA said there are a few things drivers can do to help prevent road rage. 

• Don’t offend: Never cause another driver to change their speed or direction. That means not forcing another driver to use their brakes or turn the steering wheel in response to something you have done. 
• Be tolerant and forgiving: The other driver may just be having a really bad day. Assume that it’s not personal. 
• Do not react: Avoid eye contact, don’t make gestures, maintain space around your vehicle and contact 9-1-1 if needed. 

“It’s a lot of common-sense stuff, but hopefully people take it to heart,” said Julian Paredes, a spokesperson for AAA.  

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