Drivers in New Jersey caught “flipping the bird” or getting too close to another vehicle could be dealt with harshly under legislation in the state Assembly.

The bill, sponsored by Sen. Diane Allen, R-Burlington, would allow prosecution of such offenses as tailgating and making obscene gestures while driving.

Police would be allowed to cite a driver for engaging in a pattern of aggressive driving – defined as two or more violations at the same time.

Under the measure, it would be illegal for a motorist to make audible verbal threats, to flash headlights, use demeaning gestures or other such actions directed at persons driving lawfully, Allen wrote.

If signed into law, driving aggressively could net offenders a 15- to 30-day license suspension and/or attendance in an anger management class. Repeat offenders could lose their licenses for two to three months and/or pay up to a $3,000 fine.

The bill – S827 – is in the Senate Law and Public Safety and Veterans’ Affairs Committee.