Smooth Operator Program in Full Swing Various locations throughout Montgomery County

[Howard Hartman]

Community and Media Services
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	August 8, 2012

Smooth Operator Program in Full Swing
Various locations throughout Montgomery County

Through August 18th, Maryland-National Capital Park Police officers will be stepping up their patrols against aggressive drivers as part of a nationwide program called the Law Enforcement Challenge. Aggressive driving offenses include tailgating, unsafe lane changes, speeding, running red lights and stop signs, improper passing and failing to yield the right of way.

Here are some tips on how to avoid aggressive drivers:

• Get out of their way and steer clear of them on the road.
• Stay relaxed. Remember that reaching your destination safely and calmly is your goal.
• Don't challenge them. Avoid eye contact. Ignore rude gestures and refuse to return them.
• Give them the benefit of the doubt. Not all aggressive driving behavior is intentional.
• Don't block the passing lane, especially if you are driving slower than most of the traffic. Move over to the right lane.
• Dial #77 on a cell phone to report aggressive drivers or call your local police when you can.

Here are some tips on how to avoid becoming an aggressive driver:

• Allow more travel time to get to your destination. It reduces stress dramatically.
• Come to a full stop at red lights and stop signs. Never run yellow lights.
• Let other drivers merge with you.
• Obey posted speed limits.
• Don't follow other drivers too closely.
• Resist temptation to teach someone "a lesson."
• Concentrate on driving - not on the stereo, cell phone, passengers or other distractions.
• Remember that you can't control traffic - but you can control yourself, your driving, and your emotions.

(Tips courtesy of www.smoothoperatorprogram.com)