The Alberta RCMP is reminding people that road rage incidents can have life-altering consequences.
Since the beginning of 2023, the Alberta RCMP has received over 500 reports of dangerous driving, three of those causing death.
Either charges have been laid or tickets have been issued in 184 of these incidents, and several remain under investigation.
“Like with any high-risk behaviour, it is only a matter of time until aggressive driving catches up with you. We really want people to think about that during their commutes or trips up the highway. If you find yourself getting agitated while driving, it’s time to take a breath, pull over and grab a coffee, or find an appropriate and safe way to disengage the source of your frustration,” said RCMP Traffic Services Sgt. Dan Mayowski.
Road rage and aggressive driving can result in real and permanent consequences. Everything from injuries, and a criminal record, to insurance premium increases, financial penalties, and jail time – all things that can impact your family, employment, ability to travel, and personal life in significant ways.
“Operating a vehicle comes with certain responsibilities highlighted in Traffic Safety Act, road regulations, and criminal code. We will lay charges in aggressive driving road rage incidents where it is appropriate, and we are encouraging the public to report these incidents when you see them.
“Driving a vehicle in a safe manner requires 100 per cent of your faculties. There are enough hazards out there already. Stay off your phone, stay calm, and stay alert. There is no acceptable rationale for placing others in danger while you are driving.”
If you are involved in or witness an incident of aggressive driving, remember the following:
- Take a route that avoids further engagement with the other driver.
- When safe, call 911 and report the details of the incident to police.
- Drive within the speed limit and follow the rules of the road.
Be prepared to provide the vehicle colour, make, model, license plate number, and a description of the driver to the police.