Do You Have Road Rage??... How to Avoid Road Rage: Keeping Your Cool Behind the Wheel

Although I take pleasure in living in Douglas County, GA, it is a wonder I have not given into road rage. Every state and country in the world has its share of ignorant drivers talking away on cell phones or eating and drinking while they drive, but I tend to see more of it every day because I like to travel and go sight-seeing. Since I enjoy doing this so much, not only do I have to watch what I am doing, but I also have to keep an eye on the other drivers.

When you are driving in a congested area, it is very easy to let your emotions get the better of you. People in today’s society have become less courteous and forgiving compared to several years ago. When traveling in a car it’s as if you are anonymous, so it is easy to give into road rage or become a victim.

What exactly is Road Rage?

Road rage is violent behavior or aggressive driving by a driver which brings on accidents or incidents on the roadway. When driving in our automobiles, we can get a sense of anonymous power. This is the same concept that makes people think they have the right to be cruel when posting a message on the internet. Since an individual feels there is no way of knowing who posted a message, there is a sense of invulnerability or that there is no consequence for action. The same idea applies when driving.

Some Common Causes of Road Rage. . .

Speeding, blocking access to a lane, shouting, rude gestures, and getting cut off are just a few of the many common causes of road rage. Road rage can begin before a person gets into a car. In this case, a person may be having a bad day and traffic will only make matters worse, so the person will find someone to take anger out on.

Be Alert!

When you are driving, it is important to stay focused on your driving and on the other drivers. Don’t try to read while you are driving; stay off the cell phone; keep your drinks in the cup holder, and for all you ladies out there, make sure you put your makeup on before you leave the house.

Always follow the basic rules of driving, like using your turn signals and watching the cars around you and in front of you. You can also try to look through the car in front of you to the next car ahead to watch the actions of the driver. Also, look to the cars ahead to avoid an accident.

I have noticed, living in Lithia Springs, GA, a lot of people have tinted windows, so it may be difficult to see through the car in front of you. But the more alert you are, the better you can predict what people will do, which will give you enough time to react.

Keep in mind that even the littlest things can make a person mad on the road. Although you might be following the basic rules on the road, it can still set another person "off." Remember to always be attentive to your driving habits first and observe how others might see them.

Relax!

Many people do not realize that the music you play while you are in the car can affect your mood. Some songs are suitable for a long road trip and some make us feel invincible. I have a few friends who enjoy listening to loud music, such as hard rock or heavy metal, when they are having a stressful day, but I on the other hand, enjoy the sound of silence. To me, I feel like that makes me a more cautious driver. If you feel the need to listen to music, try playing something that will keep your mind at ease, such as classical music.

Politeness.

Have you ever heard the expression, "Do unto others as you would want them to do unto you?" This should apply on the road as well. Remember to let other people enter into the flow of traffic, or if someone is trying to change lanes, give him or her room to do so.

Driving Home.

In the evening, everyone has the same ambition, and that is to get home as soon as they can. Try to remember that no one is out to get you. There are three things you should do if you ever come across an aggressive driver: never make eye contact, don’t give the person any gestures, and always leave them alone. Try to keep a distance between you and the other driver:  that way you can avoid any conflicts.

Two good ways to avoid road rage are staying calm and staying alert. You can also try a new way that people have started, and that is carrying a "sorry" sign in their cars, instead of trying to mouth it out to the other driver.

Instead of joking about road rage, we need to start taking it more seriously. If you or anyone you know has anger issues, consider anger management classes before things get out of hand. Road rage is dangerous and can be deadly.

Our law firm handles accidents in Georgia for clients who have been injured in serious car accidents or other types of accidents. Please feel free to contact a Atlanta Injury Attorney, if you have been injured in an accident and have questions for an experienced attorney. We will gladly consult with you for FREE! 770-577-3020.