Study Found That PA Drivers Are the Rudest
Reactions to the survey results range from righteous indignation to personal reflection. Here is an overview of the survey, campaign, and how this development may reflect future traffic policy.
#Drive Human Survey
The #Drive Human campaign is supported by Kars for Kids which seeks to enhance traffic safety. One way it advances its objectives is by promoting courteous driving. The Drive Human hashtag was invented as a reminder that we are all people just trying to get from Point A to Point B, and anger and rudeness is not necessary. There are actual people on the road–not just faceless cars.
In March and April 2017, Kars for Kids conducted a survey across all fifty states. The survey asked questions about driving habits and was comprised of 50 licensed drivers (age 18 and older) from each state. Answers determined the most polite and rude drivers in the nation by state.
The questions addressed responses to slow driving, cars needing to merge in front of you, tailgating, turn signals, and stealing parking spaces. The survey also asked drivers if they speed up to prevent someone from passing, a category where Pennsylvania earned a “D” grade.
Results and Findings
While it is not a perfect survey, it presented illuminating results. The West contains the most polite drivers and the Northeast, the rudest. Pennsylvania ranked 42 on driver courtesy which is how it earned a top-ten spot in the states with the rudest drivers. (New York ranks at 50, while Idaho is first.)
The survey results alarmed authorities in Pennsylvania who were already concerned about road rage incidents and traffic accidents. It is likely that this policy will continue to be emphasized, which can increase your chances of receiving a citation or even facing criminal charges.
Public responses to the survey vary. Some drivers feel this is undeserved while others report bad experiences. Pittsburgh is often considered the main problem although there are reports that Philadelphia drivers are more impatient. No matter where the dispute arises, only one thing is for certain: Aggressive driving can be dangerous, and authorities seek to resolve these issues.
Effects of Rude Driving
The survey inspired an immediate response. The press officer at the PennDOT office in Bridgeville reported that road rage is rising. Drivers are overwhelmingly impatient and quick to anger, which is usually a result of pressured and rushed lives. Pittsburgh especially has become an epicenter of tailgating, illegal passing, red light and stop sign violations, and speeding, all which are accepted as common causes of traffic accidents.
Results of aggressive driving include heightened road rage and accidents. One behavior begets another–speed up while someone tries to pass you and the response may be getting cut off at a close distance. This may end with a serious accident involving injuries and even death.
PennDOT teamed up with law enforcement to assure a reduction of aggressive driving through steeper penalties and better monitoring. It is also suggested that drivers give what they want to see. Use turn signals, drive at the speed limit, and avoid crossing double lines. The hope is that courtesy starts to rub off and Pennsylvania becomes a safer state to travel.
Meanwhile, do not be surprised to find more patrols and more possibilities to earn a ticket. If there was a time to be careful on road, it is now.
Facing Charges?
Aggressive driving may lead to speeding tickets and traffic signal violations. At worse, you may face charges for vehicle manslaughter or find your anger problems leave you vulnerable to DUI charges. Vehicle-related offenses are serious and can seriously disrupt your life.
If you are facing criminal charges, the Office of DeLuca, Ricciuti & Konieczka is on your side. Located in Pittsburgh, we offer criminal defense representation for vehicular assault and manslaughter as well as DUI. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
