Road Rage and How To Avoid It

‍

Why does road rage happen?

‍

Road rage can happen for many reasons. Most of the time, it happens because one driver feels as though the other driver was disrespectful or put their lives in danger through not following traffic laws. These laws can include anything from cutting somebody off or taking their parking space to honking excessively or tailgating. No matter what starts the altercation on the road, it is important to know how to deescalate the issue and make sure that everybody stays safe in the situation.

What are some ways that you can avoid road rage?

‍

Identifying road rage and taking the higher road in the situation can protect the safety of you and the other driver. Here are some ways that you can help to avoid a road rage situation escalating:

1. First, consider if you are the reason for the altercation and adjust your driving accordingly if you have been driving carelessly.
2. Do not overuse your horn.
3. If you notice there is an angry driver, give them room and try to put distance between your car and theirs.
4. Move over if somebody is tailgating you, don’t give in to his or her antics.
5. Use “sorry” gestures to diffuse any negative situations.

‍

Why should we avoid road rage?

‍

Road rage may seem harmless at times, but it can actually cause accidents and harm to drivers.

‍

Safemotorist.com provides these statistics on road rage:

• 66% of traffic fatalities are caused by aggressive driving.
• 37% of aggressive driving incidents involve a firearm.
• Males under the age of 19 are the most likely to exhibit road rage.
• Half of drivers who are on the receiving end of an aggressive behavior, such as horn honking, a rude gesture, or tailgating admit to responding with aggressive behavior themselves.
• Over a seven year period, 218 murders and 12,610 injuries were attributed to road rage. 66% of traffic fatalities are caused by aggressive driving.
• 37% of aggressive driving incidents involve a firearm.
• Males under the age of 19 are the most likely to exhibit road rage.
• Half of drivers who are on the receiving end of an aggressive behavior, such as horn honking, a rude gesture, or tailgating admit to responding with aggressive behavior themselves.
• Over a seven year period, 218 murders and 12,610 injuries were attributed to road rage.

Whether you are an adult or a teen and would like to learn more about road rage and the problems that it can cause on the road, consider taking a driving course from Colonial Driving School today.

‍