By Pennsylvania State Police, Butler Barracks

BUTLER — In an effort to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities resulting from traffic-related crashes during the spring and summer seasons, Pennsylvania State Police Troop D is attempting to inform motorists, pedestrians and cyclists alike of certain Pennsylvania vehicle laws. It is a goal and the intention of Troop D to make this spring and summer seasons the safest for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists in many years.

Who are they?

These high risk drivers climb into the anonymity of an automobile and take out their frustrations on anybody at any time.

For them, frustration levels are high, and level of concern for fellow motorists is low.

They run stop signs and red lights, speed, tailgate, weave in and out of traffic, pass on the right, make improper and unsafe lane changes, make hand and facial gestures, scream, honk and flash their lights.

They drive at speeds far in excess of the norm which causes them to: follow too closely, change lanes frequently and abruptly without notice (signals), pass on the shoulder or unpaved portions of the roadway, and leer at and/or threaten — verbally or through gestures — motorists who are thoughtless enough to be in front of them

When confronted by aggressive driver:

n First and foremost make every attempt to get out of their way (safe manner).

n Put your pride in the back seat. DO NOT CHALLENGE them by speeding up or attempting to hold you own in your travel lane.

n Wear your seat belt. It will hold you in your seat and behind the wheel in case you need to make an abrupt driving maneuver and it will protect you in a crash.

n Ignore gestures and refuse to return them. Avoid eye contact.

n Report aggressive drivers to the appropriate authorities by providing a vehicle description, license number, location and if possible, direction of travel.

n If you have a cell phone, and can do it safely, call the police 911 county radio or Troop D stations:

(724) 284-8100, PSP Butler, Butler County