Practice question

What should you do if you encounter a driver who is aggressive?

  1. Stay calm, avoid engaging, and keep a safe distance
  2. Challenge them to a race if they tailgate you
  3. Yell back at them to assert your confidence
  4. Follow closely to show you are not afraid

Answer: A — Stay calm, avoid engaging, and keep a safe distance

Staying calm, avoiding engagement, and maintaining a safe distance are essential strategies when encountering an aggressive driver. This approach helps de-escalate the situation and reduces the chances of confrontation. Aggressive drivers can be unpredictable, and reacting with anger or aggression can escalate tensions and lead to dangerous circumstances. Keeping a safe distance allows you to have more control over your vehicle and gives you the opportunity to safely react to the aggressive driver's behavior. In addition, displaying a calm demeanor can often help to defuse the aggressive driver's energy, as it shows that you are not willing to participate in any altercation. Prioritizing your safety and the safety of others by steering clear of confrontation is the most responsible way to handle aggressive driving situations.

Practice more: Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) Practice Test →