Aggressive behaviour on the road can quickly turn into a dangerous situation. How should drivers respond when they encounter an aggressive driver, and how can they prepare for a safer journey?
Aggressive behaviour behind the wheel can be influenced by stress, time pressure or the situation on the road. In practice, it may manifest itself through attempts to gain an advantage in traffic or through confrontational behaviour towards other drivers. How can drivers respond in such situations and help prevent them from escalating?
This was the subject discussed by Pavel Řezáč, a traffic psychologist at the Transport Research Centre (CDV), in a report broadcast by TV Nova.
Do not respond to aggression with aggression
When encountering aggressive behaviour from another road user, Pavel Řezáč emphasises the importance of not retaliating. Trying to “teach” another driver a lesson, following them closely or attempting to prove that they are behaving incorrectly on the road can further escalate the situation.
In such situations, it is therefore important to remain as calm as possible and focus primarily on your own safety. The goal is not to win a conflict on the road, but to reach your destination safely.
What can help when drivers are under pressure?
Aggressive behaviour can also be influenced by a driver's state of mind before getting behind the wheel. Traffic congestion, time pressure or an attempt to gain time on the road can increase tension and affect driving behaviour.
Preparing for a journey therefore does not necessarily mean only checking the vehicle or planning the route. It can also mean being prepared for situations that may trigger strong emotions while driving. If a driver gets behind the wheel feeling upset or under pressure, they should try to leave these emotions behind as much as possible before setting off.
Safe driving also starts with our attitude
Road traffic inevitably brings situations that we cannot always control. However, every driver can influence their own response. Staying calm, not responding to aggressive behaviour and focusing on continuing the journey safely can help prevent an unpleasant situation from developing into a dangerous conflict.
Pavel Řezáč's comments were part of the report “Higher Penalties for Aggressive Drivers”, broadcast on TV Nova's Televizní noviny on 17 September 2026.