Avoiding Road Rage

Road Rage on the Rise in NorCal

An unfortunate side effect of the COVID-19 pandemic appears to be an uptick in road rage incidents on our Northern California highways in the past few months.  Tragically, some of them have even turned deadly.  Avoiding road rage incidents altogether in the current climate seems a daunting task, but one worth pursuing.  

When injuries or deaths occur due to car crashes, it is usually caused by simple driver negligence.  Those events can have devastating consequences, but ultimately we know that they are accidents.  Injuries and fatalities that occur due to road rage, however, leave victims and their families dealing with the added element that the incident was intentional and malicious. 

Very few drivers escape feelings of frustration at some point in their travels.  Being stuck in traffic or being cut off by an inconsiderate driver are all common roadway irritants.  How we choose to react to such inconveniences and perceived slights is the difference between being a rational human being and an out-of-control menace to society.  Acts of aggression in traffic are incredibly dangerous.

Identifying and Avoiding Road Rage

Being aware of signs of road rage in other drivers surrounding you may help you avoid a collision, and could ultimately save your life.  While on the roads, be on the lookout for the following types of behavior:

  • Speeding and Erratic Lane Changes.  Angry drivers often slam down the gas pedal and lose all regard for maintaining safe speed or making safe lane changes.  If you witness such behavior, give the vehicle a wide berth.  Slow down and safely move out of the way.  
  • Gesturing and Staring.  You may notice a driver using his or her middle finger or staring angrily at another driver – maybe even you – rather than the road.  Again, safely move away from the vehicle.  If the aggressive behavior is directed at you, do not give it attention, continue looking straight ahead and cautiously maneuver away from the tantrum.
  • Horn Honking.  Road ragers want to let everyone else know how angry they are, and the simplest way to do that is by honking the car horn.  Repeated horn honking can be a signal that the driver is about to begin acts of aggression.  Avoid the vehicle.
  • Tailgating.  Drivers experiencing a tantrum will often tailgate.  If you notice an angry driver riding your rear bumper, resist the temptation to brake.  Safely change lanes and allow the foolish driver to pass.

How to Defuse Your Own Frustrations on the Road

Even lower levels of anger and frustration can cause a driver to take out-of-character or unnecessary risks. The safest drivers know that keeping cool and collected is the best driving strategy.  Here are some tips on how to do that:

  • Tune in to Soothing Music.  Save the heavy metal for another occasion.  Music really does affect our moods.  Stream a calming chill-hop mix, such as the one in the YouTube video below, and travel in peace.  

  • Allow Extra Time.  When you are running late for something, it is easy to get wound up.  Giving yourself extra time to reach your destination will eliminate one of the most common causes of poor decision-making behind the wheel.
  • Stay Rested.  Not only is sleep deprivation a major cause of accidents in general, but it also makes humans more likely to experience frustration, irritation, impatience, and anger.  Respect your inner toddler and if you are feeling sleepy, take a nap before embarking on a road trip.

Lodi Wrongful Death Attorney

I’m Ed Smith, a wrongful death lawyer in Lodi, California. When a road rage accident turns deadly, the victim’s family is left with not only a heartbreaking loss but the terrible knowledge that the death of their loved one was caused by an intentional act.  For compassionate, free, and friendly advice following an automobile accident caused by carelessness, negligence, or malice, call our experienced injury attorneys at (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400.

Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/crazy-angry-mad-upset-woman-arms-3607408/

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