Drivers on Rockville Pike may not be surprised to learn the busy Montgomery County roadway has earned a unique distinction.
According to a new survey highlighted by FOX5 DC on social media, Rockville Pike ranked as the 7th most passive-aggressive road in the United States and was named the most passive-aggressive road in Maryland.
The ranking comes from a study conducted by American River Wellness, which surveyed a small sample of 3,011 drivers across the country in May 2026 to identify the roads most likely to trigger passive-aggressive driving behaviors.
Researchers defined those behaviors as actions such as tailgating, blocking merges, brake-checking, excessive honking, and other forms of roadway frustration that fall short of outright road rage.
According to the survey, respondents were selected from a geographically representative online panel balanced by age, gender, and region. The company said responses underwent multiple quality-control measures, including bot detection, geo-verification, speeding checks, and manual review. Results were then weighted to reflect national population benchmarks.
While the survey did not identify specific reasons why Rockville Pike ranked so highly, anyone who has spent time navigating the heavily traveled route is likely familiar with its frequent congestion, closely spaced traffic signals, numerous shopping center entrances, and constant merging traffic.
Rockville Pike was the only Maryland roadway to make the national top 10 list and claimed the top spot statewide.
