Don't engage
When another driver is aggressive — tailgating, honking, gesturing, brake-checking — do not return any of it. Do not make eye contact. Do not signal back. Do not flash your lights. Each response gives the aggressor permission to escalate.
Make space
If a tailgater is on your bumper, move to the right lane and let them pass. Slowing down to punish them is the most common cause of road rage escalation. Letting them past costs you nothing and resolves the situation.
Drive to a public place
If an aggressor follows you, do not drive home. Drive to a busy parking lot, a police station, or a gas station with witnesses. Call 911 if the behavior continues. Note the license plate when it is safe to do so.
Don't escalate yourself
The simplest road rage prevention is the one most often skipped: do not be the aggressor. Tailgating, honking out of frustration, and aggressive lane changes are the most commonly cited triggers in road rage cases. The driver who never starts the conflict is rarely in one.