Tips to avoid aggressive drivers - WXOW News 19 La Crosse, WI – News, Weather and Sports |

La Crescent, MN (WXOW) - Tailgating, unsafe passing, running lights, and weaving in and out of traffic are typical traits of aggressive drivers, and those actions can lead to unsafe roadways and accidents.

As a part of Minnesota's Toward Zero Deaths' initiative, the Department of Public Safety and MN-DOT have provided tips for motorists when confronted by an aggressive driver.

Here are some tips:

   -Get out of their way, and stay calm.

   -Do not challenge them and try to avoid eye contact, these actions will provoke them and could make the situation worse.

   -Ignore gestures, and don't return them.

   -Buckle up. A seat belt is important to maintain proper seating position in the case of abrupt driving maneuvers.

   -Call 9-1-1 You should report aggressive driving.  Be ready with the vehicle description, license number and location.

In 2011, common aggressive driving behaviors resulted in sixty-one deaths and more than 6,000 injuries and the state patrol took enforcement action on more than 5,000 aggressive driving behaviors.