6 Simple Ways to Avoid Road Rage
One of the biggest threats to roadway safety is road rage. In a best-case scenario, road rage could ruin one’s day. In a worst-case scenario, it could lead to arrest or even death. At the end of the day we are all just trying to get where we need to go. So take a deep breath, relax and use the following tips to avoid road rage.
Image via Pexels
What Causes Road Rage?
While there is no one official definition of road rage, the easiest way to define it is as aggressive driving. It can include everything from making obscene gestures to tailgating from cutting another car off to a driver using his vehicle to try to injure another.
Experts tend to agree the road rage can be triggered by a variety of stimuli. Some people are provoked by the actions of another driver, while others are set off by traffic jams. However, most road rage incidents are caused by the drivers’ own moods and reactions.
However you want to define it, and whatever causes it, we can all agree that it comes down to one thing – dangerous driving. Today I’ve partnered with Performance Dodge of New Jersey to share some simple tips to help you avoid road rage…
Leave Whatever Happened Behind Before Getting Behind the Wheel
If you’ve had a bad day or are upset over something or someone, take several deep breaths and try to relax before getting behind the wheel. To help you relax, turn on the radio or listen to an audiobook. Always keep in mind that you are in your car because you have somewhere to go. Likewise, so do the drivers you are sharing the road with.
Keep Calm and Drive On
We’ve all seen drivers on the road that make us wonder how they got their license. When another driver does something that scares or angers you, keep calm, and drive on. Even if you are angry, use self-control and avoid doing things that could make the situation escalate. Avoid using obscene hand gestures and avoid making eye contact with the offender.
Avoid Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is basically defined as driving while your attention is on other things. This includes texting or talking on your phone, adjusting the radio or climate controls, grooming, eating, drinking, and more. Driving distracted is not only dangerous for yourself and those around you, it can also cause anger and frustration. There are lots of simple ways to avoid distracted driving. For example, avoid texting or talking with your smartphone while driving. Turn your music down, leave the eating and grooming until you are out of the car. Keep your hands on the wheel, and your eyes and attention on the road.
Use the Passing Lane to Do Just That, Pass
Nothing is as annoying as someone hogging the passing lane. Don’t do it. Move over and let the faster traffic pass. If you are behind someone who is hogging the left lane, do not tailgate or flash your brights. Take a deep breath, relax, and when the chance comes, safely change back into the other lane and go around the left lane hog.
Do Unto Others…
Be courteous to other drivers. If someone needs to get into your lane because his lane is ending or because he has a turn coming up, let him over. If someone is trying to merge onto the highway in bumper-to-bumper traffic, let them merge in front of you. Treat others as you would want them to treat you. And always remember, what comes around goes around.
Safety First
If at any time you feel you are in danger, the best thing to do is pull over and call 9-1-1 to report the incident. Make sure you note the location, the make/model of the offending vehicle, and if you can get it, the vehicle’s license plate number. And do not forget to make sure your doors are locked and windows are closed.
What are some of the ways you avoid road rage? Share with us in the comments below.