Motoring – Driving Tips

Road Rage

What is Road Rage?

Driving can be stressful, and some people get so agitated that they cannot contain their anger and take it out on other road–users, resulting in an attack of “road rage”.

Road rage is a worrying and growing phenomenon. Usually, road rage is limited to some shouting and rude hand signals, but it can develop into something far more dangerous – sometimes with fatal results.

Road Rage is a common problem

Eight out of ten road users in the UK have been victims of road rage at some point. In a poll of young drivers, 20 % said they had experienced it more than 10 times and 70% admitted to having caused it.

Don’t lose your self–control

Remember your car can be a lethal weapon. You must be in control emotionally to drive safely. There will always be occasions when other drivers drive or behave badly. Do not lose your temper. If a driver makes a stupid error, understand that he/she may be inexperienced or may not know the road. If a driver is aggressive, give him/her space. Remember that your safety is worth far more than an argument with someone you don’t even know.

What to do if you are a victim of Road Rage

If you incur the anger of another driver, keep calm, even if you have not done anything wrong, and avoid angry gestures. Try to diffuse the situation and calm the other driver. If necessary apologise by holding your hand up. Don’t be proud – most likely you’ll never see the “rager” again. Try not to make eye contact with an enraged driver.

If you are followed by an aggressive driver, try to keep some distance between you and the vehicle in front so you can move into the space and away from the aggressive driver. Move away from the aggressive driver as soon as possible without speeding or driving recklessly. If necessary, pull over, preferably in a place where there are other people around. Make a note of the registration number, model and colour of the other vehicle, and, if possible, a description of the driver. Don’t leave your vehicle, keep your doors locked and windows up and, if necessary, use your mobile to call the police.

Don’t go home if an angry driver is following you – you don’t want them to know where you live.

Avoid angering other drivers

Reduce your chances of becoming involved in a road range incident by driving with consideration for others and keeping your distance from other vehicles. Do not drive aggressively and keep your distance from the car in front. Never undertake on motorways. Avoid eye contact with other drivers.

Parking Rage

Some of the worst incidents of road rage occur with people fighting over parking spaces. Use common sense and courtesy and avoid situations which might upset another driver.

If someone “steals” your parking space, be philosophical. That’s all it is – a parking place. Take some deep breaths, count to ten and think about the consequences of losing your temper.

Road Rage message forum

Vent your anger safely by going to www.roadrage.co.uk.