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Anyone who has a long commute to work has seen other drivers engaging in a variety of less than safe behaviors. Some drivers may be talking or texting on their cell phones, while others may be driving too closely to the vehicle in front of them. The drivers who engage in these sorts of behaviors can be dangerous because they have directed their attention to an activity besides focusing on the road. Indeed, driver distraction is now one of the most common causes of car accidents in the U.S.

Rude behaviors common

Recently, the website Insurance.com asked 1,000 adult drivers about their behavior while behind the wheel. Surprisingly, many admitted that they regularly engaged in behaviors that are not only rude, but also unsafe. A total of 28 percent of drivers surveyed admitted that they would hit their brakes if they saw that another car was following them too closely. Nearly 26 percent said that they regularly sped up to prevent other cars from passing them in the passing lane. Nearly 20 percent said that they would routinely tailgate drivers who were going too slow. Almost 30 percent admitted that they had made obscene gestures at other drivers on the highway.

Experts suggest that drivers do not think twice about acting aggressively while behind the wheel because cars provide not only a feeling a anonymity, but also a false sense of invincibility. Drivers are more likely to feel uninhibited because they do not believe they will be held accountable for their actions.

Safety is a major concern

While some of these behaviors may seem like simple matters of etiquette, the reality is that driving aggressively - including swearing at other drivers, making obscene gestures and tailgating - impacts the safety of everyone on the highway. Instead of making rational decisions based on traffic and road conditions, aggressive drivers allow their emotions to get the better of them, which means that they often disregard the safety of themselves and those around them.

The best course of action for all drivers is to try to remain calm, no matter what the situation, and drive defensively. Of course, despite drivers' best efforts, accidents do happen. If a driver is injured due to another person's negligence, he may be entitled to compensation for his injuries and medical bills. A personal injury attorney can provide more information about possible legal remedies for those who have been injured.