Road Rage Affects Nearly Everyone, According to New AAA Research. Here’s What You Can Do

In a new study, 96% of drivers admitted to driving aggressively - and being on the receiving end too.

WALNUT CREEK, Calif. (September 23, 2025) - If you feel like aggressive drivers are everywhere, there might be some truth to it. A staggering 96% of drivers admitted to engaging in some form of aggressive driving in the last year, according to a new study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety released Tuesday.

Aggressive driving can come in the form of speeding and tailgating to cutting off other vehicles. According to the nationwide study, aggressive driving has become a nearly universal experience on American roads.

“Understanding the motivations behind aggressive driving is a key step toward preventing it,” said Doug Johnson, spokesperson for AAA Mountain West Group. “Aggressive driving can quickly escalate into road rage, so it’s important that drivers know how to react appropriately and keep themselves from being the instigator.”

A pre-taped interview with soundbites is available for download.

The study found that being in a hurry often fueled aggressive behavior on the road. Drivers were also more prone to engage in unsafe behavior as a reaction to other aggressive vehicles. This self-fulfilling cycle of aggressive driving and road rage is fueling a culture where impatience and hostility are becoming the norm behind the wheel.

Key Findings:

• 92% of drivers reported aggressive behaviors that put others at risk, like speeding or cutting off other vehicles. Their top motivators were to get to their destination faster and avoid perceived danger. 

• 11% admitted to violent actions such as intentionally bumping another car or confronting another driver.
• Aggressive driving is contagious: Drivers who experienced higher levels of aggressive driving also had higher levels of engagement in aggressive driving. 
• The vehicle plays a role: The kind of car you drive could predict how you act – and how others perceive you. Drivers in sports cars, big trucks, and motorcycles are often seen as more aggressive. Some drivers say they felt more powerful and dominant behind the wheel of these vehicles. 

This study is an update of a 2016 AAA study which shows some behaviors have become more common while others have declined. 

Since 2016:

• Cutting off other vehicles is up 67%.
• Honking out of anger is up 47%.
• Tailgating is down 24% and yelling at other drivers is down 17%.

AAA urges drivers to prioritize courtesy and safety to help curb aggressive driving. Another key finding in the study was that good road etiquette may be the most effective way to reduce aggressive driving and road rage.

Simple actions like using turn signals, letting others merge, and offering a friendly wave can help deescalate tension and create a safer driving environment for everyone.

AAA Tips For When Encountering An Aggressive Driver: 

• Stay calm – don't engage. 
• Avoid eye contact, making gestures, or responding. 
• Give space.
• Let them pass and keep your distance.
• Call 911 or go to a public place — never drive home.

AAA Tips to Control Road Rage:

• Breathe before you react.
• One deep breath can reset your perspective.
• Don’t take the bait.
• Ignore and avoid aggressive drivers.
• Choose time over tension.
• Leave early, give space, arrive safe.

About AAA Mountain West Group

AAA Mountain West Group is a membership and full-service leisure travel organization, proudly serving over 6.7 million Members across Alaska, Arizona, Nevada, Northern California, Montana, and Utah. AAA delivers unmatched expertise and value through roadside assistance and electric vehicle (EV) resources, along with comprehensive auto repair, travel, insurance, financial, and home security services. Powered by 5,300 dedicated Team Members, AAA is on a mission to revolutionize solutions that help our Members.