How to Deal with an Aggressive Driver if You’re on a Motorcycle

Last Updated: 9/28/2023

Knowing how to deal with an aggressive driver is an unfortunate reality for bikers. Drivers will run you off the road either through inattentiveness or because they feel more powerful behind the wheels of their cars. Despite how aggravating it can be, you’ve got to bear in mind that when you’re on a motorcycle, you are at risk for a motorcycle accident which often results in serious injuries. Knowing how to deal with an aggressive driver if you’re riding a bike is essential to your safety.

Don’t Respond to Road Rage

Another driver who’s frustrated with traffic or the way that you’re operating your motorcycle may demonstrate road rage. Yelling, using obscene language or gestures, tailgating, speeding, or otherwise driving aggressively and dangerously often characterizes road rage.

While responding to the driver’s road rage aggressively—and even falling victim to an episode of road rage yourself—can be an easy trap to fall into, avoid the temptation. Responding to an episode of road rage can be dangerous for both yourself and the other driver. Instead, keep your distance and keep your cool.

Move Over if Being Tailgated

Tailgating is a very common form of aggressive driving. While being tailgated is frustrating and you may have the urge to slow down even more in response, the best thing that you can do is just to change lanes and allow the tailgater to pass. Don’t speed up to please the tailgater, as doing so may be dangerous. Allowing the tailgater to pass solves the problem safely.

Report the Driver

If necessary, you may need to pull over to the side of the road or exit the highway to allow the aggressive driver to pass. If this is the case, you should also consider reporting the aggressive driver, especially if the driver seems dangerous. You can call the Non-Emergency Communications Center for the Des Moines Police Department to report an aggressive driver at 515-283-4811. The number is staffed 24 hours a day.

Know How to Stay Safe While Riding

Knowing how to handle an aggressive driver while riding a motorcycle is just one of the many things that you need to do to stay safe. Don’t forget other motorcycle safety tips, like always wearing a helmet and what to put in your motorcycle safety kit. You can find a variety of other safety tips for motorcyclists on our blog.

If you ever are in a motorcycle accident, don’t hesitate to call an attorney to discuss your compensation and recovery options. At Walker, Billingsley & Bair, we want to help you. To learn more, contact us at (888) 435-9886 today.