June 27, 2025

As summer heats up, the Arkansas State Police (ASP) urge drivers to stay calm, stay cool, and avoid road rage on the highways. With a growing number of aggressive driving incidents reported, ASP stresses the importance of maintaining composure to ensure safety for everyone on the road.

ASP Troopers have investigated over 440 road rage incidents so far in 2025. Of these incidents, 153 have involved one of the parties displaying a weapon, while 294 incidents were reported without a weapon.

In 2024, ASP investigated a total of 800 road rage incidents, including 333 cases involving weapons. These reported cases reflect a significant increase from 2023, when ASP investigated 284 cases of road rage.

“Troopers understand that driving can be frustrating at times, but aggressive driving and road rage are not the answer,” said Col. Mike Hagar, director of the Arkansas State Police. “We want everyone to arrive safely at their destination. Remember, road rage can lead to dangerous situations that put your life and the lives of others at risk.”

ASP reminds you to stay safe this summer by practicing patience and courtesy and by following these guidelines to prevent road rage incidents on Arkansas highways.

• Avoid engaging other drivers, even if they have done something to make you angry or you have made them angry.
• Put as much distance between you and the other driver as possible.
• Try not to make eye contact with them.
• Never, ever pull off the roadway to confront them. They could have weapons.
• Avoid creating a competitive situation with another driver, even if he is at fault.
• Try not to take another person’s aggressive driving personally.
• If a speeding driver is tailgating you or trying to engage you in risky driving, safely steer your vehicle out of the way.
• Call law enforcement if you believe a driver is following you or harassing you.

ASP urges motorists not to hesitate to call authorities if they witness road rage. If you are a victim of road rage or aggressive driving that puts you or other motorists at risk, please follow through and make a report. Call 911 or, in non-emergency incidents, call *ASP (*277) to be connected to your local Troop Headquarters.