Make this list your first stopover for driving-related terms! This Ultimate Driving Terms Glossary is always a friendly and beneficial guide to understanding the terms below.

Aggressive Driver

Any driver who operates their vehicle in an unsafe or reckless manner. Aggressive driving can endanger passengers, other drivers, pedestrians, and even the drivers themselves.

Controlled Intersections

There are two kinds of intersections: open (uncontrolled) and controlled intersections. Controlled intersections have traffic control signs or signals. When a driver approaches this type of intersection, he or she must obey the signs, signals, and right-of-way rules.

Driver Distraction

Any event or occurrence that directs the driver’s attention away from the task of driving.

Hydroplaning

Hydroplaning refers to a loss of traction and sliding on a film of water. Wet road surfaces can cause tires to hydroplane. This could result in loss of control and steering ability, as your tires may lose contact with the pavement. Hydroplaning is caused by a combination of standing water on the road, car speed, and under-inflated or worn-out tires.

Road Rage:

An uncontrolled emotional response by a driver to a traffic situation (deliberate tailgating, yelling at other drivers, assaulting another driver). An extreme form of aggressive driving that may be considered as a criminal offense.