What to Know About Road Rage

When driving, it’s important to act in a safe manner at all times. This means being patient and not trying to harm another driver or run them off the road.

However, some drivers are impatient or easily angered. They may drive erratically or recklessly so they can get where they need to go quicker. This is called road rage and this type of driving is dangerous. In fact, since 2013, road rage has been responsible for about 300 deaths. What’s even scarier is that road rage doesn’t solely involve vehicles. It is estimated that 37% of these incidents involve a firearm.

Road rage can range from shouting or rude gestures to reckless driving, tailgating, or even physical confrontations. Understanding road rage and how to prevent or respond to it is crucial for safe driving.

What Causes Road Rage?

• Traffic delays. Congested roads, traffic jams, or slow drivers can provoke frustration.
• Aggressive driving. Tailgating, cutting off other vehicles, or erratic lane changes often lead to road rage.
• Personal stress. Drivers dealing with personal issues (such as work, family, and financial stress) may be more prone to road rage.
• Perceived slights. A driver might feel disrespected or slighted by another driver’s actions, leading to an overreaction.

Signs of Road Rage

• Yelling or verbal abuse. Shouting at other drivers or passengers.
• Aggressive gestures. Flashing obscene hand signals or angrily waving.
• Driving too closely to intimidate another driver.
• Honking excessively. Using the car horn as a means to express anger.
• Reckless driving. Speeding, weaving through traffic, or braking suddenly.

How to Avoid Road Rage

• Avoid reckless drivers. Try to avoid drivers exhibiting dangerous behavior. If someone is tailgating, aggressively braking, or swerving, stay away from them. Create distance between yourself and the aggressive driver by getting over to let them pass.
• Give yourself time to get where you’re going. If you need to be somewhere at a specific time, make sure you factor in expected traffic or possible delays. Planning and setting proper expectations can reduce stress.
• Don’t drive while emotional. If you had a frustrating day at work or got in a fight with a friend, you should not get behind the wheel. If you’re angry or upset, don’t drive.
• Build positive driving habits. Don’t speed or weave between vehicles. Avoid cutting off other drivers and making rude gestures.
• Be patient and understanding. Don’t let frustration build. Put yourself in the other driver’s seat. Other drivers aren’t perfect and neither are you.
• Only use your horn if necessary. Car horns are primarily designed for emergency use. Lay off the horn.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

Road rage is dangerous. Many people have gotten seriously injured or killed from crazy, reckless drivers.

Injured in a crash? See how a Houston car accident attorney from The West Law Office, PLLC can assist you. We’ll work on ensuring maximum financial recovery. Call 281-347-3247 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation.

Source:

allstate.com/resources/car-insurance/how-to-avoid-road-rage#:~:text=Aggressive%20driving%20is%20often%20used%20as%20a,to%20yelling%2C%20angry%20gestures%20or%20violent%20acts.