Poll: Pacific Northwest People Are Seeing An Increase in Roadway Rudeness

If you’ve felt a shift in driver behavior on Pacific Northwest roads, a recent poll suggests you’re not alone.

A survey of Washington and Oregon residents by PEMCO Mutual Insurance found that many motorists are seeing increases in rudeness on Pacific Northwest roadways.

Nearly three-in-four drivers surveyed reported at least occasionally seeing increases in traffic violations in the last five years, and of those, 47% say they’ve often seen more drivers breaking the rules.

Respondents also admitted to a range of behaviors behind the wheel. For example, 36% said they occasionally drive slower to “teach someone a lesson” after they’ve tailgated them. At the same time, 35% of drivers admitted to speeding up to block another vehicle from passing.

Younger drivers also stood out in the findings. The poll found that those under age 35 were the group most likely to admit to these kinds of aggressive behaviors, with 31% saying they’ve often driven slower to teach a lesson, and 23% admitting they’ve often sped up to block a pass—far higher than the rates reported among drivers 55 and older (4% and 7%, respectively).

More than half (56%) also say they often see rude or aggressive behavior from other drivers, while only 37% say they’ve witnessed other drivers being extra polite.

“Aggressive driving may be becoming more common, but it doesn’t have to be the norm,” stated Jennifer Hawton, spokesperson for PEMCO Insurance. “Safe, defensive driving helps protect everyone, and often, a small act of kindness behind the wheel can prevent a much bigger problem. It’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and help keep each other safe when driving.”

Despite the rise in rudeness, PEMCO found that most drivers still say they witness polite gestures, like waving someone through or allowing others to merge.

The poll included 436 respondents from the Seattle metro area (King, Snohomish, and Pierce counties) and 398 respondents from the Portland metro area (Multnomah, Marion, Clackamas, and Washington counties). PEMCO provides auto, home, renters and boat coverage in the Pacific Northwest.