Aggressive driving is a prevalent traffic safety concern that contributes to crash risk and undermines traffic safety culture. Building on Phase 1 work that defined aggressive driving and identified promising intervention points, this Phase 2 study examined two complementary strategies to reduce aggressive driving: supporting bystanders (i.e., spouses/partners, family members, and close friends) to intervene with drivers who engage in aggressive driving, and developing and testing media messages to encourage safer driving among drivers themselves. Key informant interviews were conducted with bystanders. Findings informed the development of a three-step bystander intervention that included expressing concern and connecting to shared values. The intervention was tested with a national sample of 102 bystanders. Results demonstrated increased bystander confidence, greater use of constructive strategies, and perceived reductions in aggressive driving frequency. Participants reported that the strategies were feasible, acceptable, and helpful. Media messages were developed in three main themes: cognitive reappraisal, adaptive response, and prosocial driving. Messages were tested with 864 drivers who reported recent engagement in aggressive driving. Findings indicated that, across message themes, messages were well received, prompted reflection on driving behavior, and supported changes in perceptions related to safety and responsibility. Together, these findings suggest that engaging bystanders and deploying supportive, nonjudgmental messaging are promising, complementary approaches to reducing aggressive driving and strengthening traffic safety culture. Resources were developed: a bystander conversation guide, a community dissemination toolkit, and a messaging development resource.

Infrastructure Assets: Highway Assets
Resource Types: Research Report
Capabilities: Tools & Technology
Management Processes: Performance Based Planning & Programming