Most drivers will know the feeling of getting wound up by another motorist's behaviour.
Some people are often inspired to call out what they view as reckless driving, usually by blasting them on social media, or leaving a "strongly worded" note on their vehicle.
While it is understandably frustrating to see a fellow driver break the law or park poorly, those who leave aggressive notes on people's cars could also be committing an offence.
Graham Conway, Managing Director at Select Car Leasing, warns that by doing this, you potentially leave yourself open to libel action, or being accused of damaging the car you leave a message on.
“When it comes to perceived behaviours on the road or in car parks, responding in an aggressive manner - either through verbal or physical gestures, or by leaving notes - is rarely a recipe for a productive conversation", revealed Mr Conway.
He further warned: “And while leaving a note on a motorist’s car to vent your anger might be tempting, we’d urge people to think twice.
“If you touch someone else’s car, perhaps when lifting up a windscreen wiper to leave your note, you could be accused of damaging or scratching that person’s vehicle.
“If the motorist you’re targeting drives for a living, you could also end up defaming them, or their business, by making accusations about the way they behave which could cause reputational damage.
“That’s particularly true if the note you leave is clear and visible for other people walking past to see and to read."
When it comes to a tense situation between drivers, the best solution is to take the high road.
Graham concluded: “What you should do when confronted by any sort of poor behaviour on the road is to remain calm and stay non-aggressive so there’s no escalation of conflict.”
Legal experts will likely tell you something similar, especially if the contents of the note are offensive or threatening.
Dominic Smith, Director at Patterson Law , the UK’s largest road traffic offence legal specialists, advised: “If the note was threatening, or abusive - especially if that abuse was racially, religiously or sexually motivated - then that might be an offence.
“If you are going to leave a note, it's best to leave-out threats and abuse to ensure no offence is committed.”
Responding to what you see as poor driving by accelerating, braking or swerving your car suddenly is also a big no-no.
Mr Conway added: “Not only will this aggravate other drivers, but you will also put yourself at risk, reducing your own car control.
“The best thing is to stay calm and continue to drive sensibly so as not to make the situation any worse.”
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