The Road Rage

Based on the video, cyclists handling road rage from angry motorists must prioritize safety and de-escalation. Riders should not instigate or engage; avoid flipping off motorists, yelling back, or using any hand gesture other than a peace sign. To de-escalate the situation, put distance between yourself and the driver, do not approach them, and avoid engaging in arguments or trying to "win". Documenting the encounter by using a smartphone camera to record the incident can often calm down an aggressive motorist. In severe cases, cyclists should defend themselves by placing their bicycle between themselves and the motorist as a barrier, while still avoiding physical altercations. If an incident or injury occurs, report it to the police, gather detailed documentation and photos, and consult an attorney.

A driver's road rage can be one of the most frightening, enraging, and frustrating circumstances we can encounter on a bike ride. And it's illegal. In my decades of riding, I've encountered all sorts of circumstances and seen all sorts of crazy things happen with angry motorist. Here is my advice for managing road rage. First, do not instigate it. Do not flip off a rider. Do not use anything but a peace sign. Do not engage. Do not yell back.

Two, deescalate. If you're on the side of the road, add distance between you and that rider. Do not go towards that rider. Do not engage in an argument. Do not try to win. Three, try to document what's going on. Your smartphone typically has a camera. You'll be surprised how often that takes the wind out of the sails of the angry motorists.

And four, this is only in the worst situations, defend. typically move your bike between you and the motorist. Do not try to get into any type of physical altercation with an angry motorist. But if you do have an incident or suffer an injury, make sure you file a report with the police. Document everything, take pictures, and contact an attorney. At Jeffrey Glman Injury Lawyers, we ride.

We get it. We've been there. We're on your side.

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• The Right Hook – Bicycle Advocate Richard Fries Explains the Accident
• The Four Fundamentals of Bike Rider Safety From Bicycle Advocate: Richard Fries
• Stuff Happens | Richard Fries' Safe Cycling Tips
• Being Right vs Being Safe
• Courtesy Equals Safety
• Cycling Skills
• Eyes Forward
• Horizons Matter
• Listen to the Horns
• The Left Turn
• The Magic Word
• The Ready Position
• The Importance of Deliberate Road Navigation