Road rage incidents and shootings across the city have been on the rise, so Houston drivers are on high alert when driving through the city. Increasingly, drivers are using firearms to express their anger on roads and highways, according to an analysis by The Trace.
SEE ALSO: What to do and not do to avoid becoming a victim of road rage
Here is a breakdown of road rage shootings by the numbers:
- 215 - Number of incidents in Houston from 2014-2023
- 192 - Shooting in Houston from 2014-2023
- 207- Victims shot in Houston from 2014-2023
The Trace highlights that this number is twice as many incidents and victims as the next city on the list.
- 3,095 people - More than one person was killed every day during the last decade because of angry drivers
- 741 - Total number of incidents in Texas from 2014-2023
- 530 - Shootings in Texas from road rage incidents from 2014 to 2023
RELATED: HPD’s new record-keeping system aims to improve crime tracking
Every 18 hours - An average of one person was shot in a road rage incident every 18 hours in 2023
Consumer Affairs identified the following behaviors as the most widespread in the U.S:
- Speeding on highway: 48%
- Tailgating: 34%
- Honking/gestures: 32%
- Running a red light: 31%
- Aggressive driving: 26%
- Cutting another vehicle off: 22%
Here is a look at other statistics:
According to the Safe Roadways Initiative, road rage incidents have increased 29% since 2018.
Additionally, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found approximately 89% of drivers believe aggressive driving, including changing lanes quickly and following closely behind other vehicles, to be extremely or very dangerous.
SEE ALSO: How HPD’s ‘Safe Roadways’ Initiative is combatting road rage shootings in the Houston area
Here are some habits drivers are encouraged to have as they travel:
- Reduce your stress: Pre-plan your trip and allow plenty of time to get to your destination.
- Be patient and courteous to other drivers: Remember they have families too.
- Do not take other drivers’ actions personally; take the high road.
- Keep your cool in traffic.
- Avoid aggressive driving.
Law enforcement has provided these tips for avoiding actions that provoke other motorists:
- Avoid tailgating
- Let drivers pass
- Use turn signal
- Let drivers merge
- Consider others in parking lots
SEE ALSO: Family pleas for killer to be caught after teen girl dies in road rage shooting in downtown Houston
Here are some tips for avoiding confrontations while driving:
- Avoid eye contact
- Do not respond to aggression with aggression
- Be tolerant and forgiving
- Avoid offensive hand gestures
- Call 911 if threatened
MORE: Family of 19-year-old killed in road rage shooting says he had a bright future ahead of him
Authorities also urge drivers to remember the ABC’s of safe driving:
- Avoid distractions
- Be well rested
- Continually monitor traffic
