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4 dangerous drivers you may encounter this summer

On Behalf of | Jun 24, 2022 | Car Accidents |

This summer, you can expect more people to hit the road in their cars and SUVs for trips throughout West Virginia.

Along the way, you are likely to encounter unsafe drivers. Below are some of the most common types of dangerous driving behaviors during the summer.

Bad summer drivers

While traveling, be on the lookout for drivers who flout traffic laws. Staying alert to the risk may save your life and the lives of your passengers. The list of dangerous drivers includes:

  • Distracted drivers: You can spot them quickly. They are the ones driving slowly, crossing the center line and looking down. They may be talking or texting on their phones, eating, reading, putting on make-up, or talking with other passengers.
  • Speeding and reckless drivers: These are among the most dangerous drivers, traveling at excessive speeds, swerving in and out of traffic, and passing on the right. Nearly 9,500 speeding-related deaths occurred in 2019, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Speeding was a contributing factor in 26% of all fatalities that year.
  • Aggressive drivers: This group is included among the speeding and reckless drivers — but with the added characteristic of volatility. Their aggressive behavior may include tailgating, flashing their headlights, honking their horns, shouting, and flashing obscene gestures. See our previous post on tailgating for some tips on what to do if you encounter a tailgating driver.
  • Impaired drivers: They, too, are easy to spot, drifting in the road, veering into the next lane, driving too slowly, suddenly changing their driving speeds, driving erratically, and tailgating. Alcohol and drugs can have that effect.

Do your best to maintain your distance from these drivers and do not engage with them.

Staying out of harm’s way

Enjoy your summer excursions. However, unexpected things may happen due to any dangerous driver. By being aware of these dangers, abiding by traffic laws, defensive driving, and wearing your seat belt, you may stay out of harm’s way.