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Road rage is the cause of many accidents and violent altercations. If you are being pursued by a road rager, there are several things you can do to keep yourself safe.

First off, try to get away from the road rager. This does not mean speeding away from them, as this would only put you and other motorists in jeopardy. Changing lanes and slowing down is often enough to get the angry driver to pass you by and keep on going.

If the road rager insists on following or tailgating you, at this point you need to call the police. Dial 911 and inform the operator of the situation. You will most likely have to give your location and heading, and a description of your vehicle and your pursuer's vehicle. The 911 operator will then dispatch police to find and help you.

When you are being followed by a road rager, you should not come to a stop and attempt to engage the angry driver. Even if you think you can calm them down by apologizing or talking to them, there is no telling what the outcome of your interaction may be. People who are enraged can be very dangerous, and many road rage interactions end with someone being hurt or killed. Avoid this possibility by not stopping your vehicle.

If you are being pursued by a road rager and do not have a phone to call for help, you should drive to the nearest police station if you know where it is. If not, find safety by driving to a public place and calling police from there. Once you have stopped your vehicle, if you need to yell for help, do it. Yell as loud as you can. Get the attention of people nearby so that they can help you or call the police for you.

Road rage is a very serious problem that all motorists will probably encounter at least once in their life. Knowing how to avoid triggering road rage is your best defense against it. If you are a responsible and considerate driver, you will probably never cause another motorist to be angry with you.

If you become the target of a road rager through no fault of your own, drive away from them or call for help. These are your two best courses of action.

Learn more about this author, Louis Albornoz.
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