Experiencing road rage, characterized by aggressive driving in response to stress, anger, or another driver’s actions, is a common phenomenon. According to studies, the majority of drivers admitted to driving aggressively or experiencing road rage in the past month. This behaviour often leads to impulsive and risky decisions on the road, increasing the likelihood of accidents, injuries, and fatalities.
Dr. Justin Kei, a psychiatrist, explains that individuals prone to stress or anger are more susceptible to road rage. “People may act recklessly due to stress or upset, behaving in ways they normally wouldn’t,” says Dr. Kei. He notes that factors such as running late, work-related anger, or being cut off by another driver can prompt risky driving behaviours.
To mitigate road rage, consider the following strategies below:
- Do not take it personally: Assume the other driver is having a bad day and their actions are not directed at you
- Listen to music: Play your favourite music to elevate your mood
- Practice deep breathing: Breathe slowly and deeply to help calm your nerves
- Count to ten: Before reacting emotionally, count from 1 to 10
- Focus on your destination: Keep your mind on reaching your destination
To reduce the likelihood of feeling aggressive while driving, take preventive measures such as:
- Ensure adequate sleep: Resting well can help you stay patient and avoid risky behaviours
- Avoid alcohol: Do not consume alcoholic beverages before driving
- Allow extra time: Give yourself more time than you think you need each trip to reduce stress if you encounter traffic
When encountering another driver displaying road rage, de-escalate the situation by following these steps:
- Stay calm: Do not retaliate with honks or gestures
- Avoid eye contact: Do not make eye contact with the aggressive driver or their passengers
- Let them pass: Allow the aggressive driver to overtake you
- Change lanes: Gradually switch lanes and slow down to create distance between your vehicle and the aggressive driver’s car
If confronted by an aggressive driver who exits their vehicle, remain in your car with doors locked and windows up. Avoid engaging with them visually or verbally. If stopped in traffic and threatened, record a brief video of the behaviour and drive away safely if possible. If an aggressive driver is following you, head to a police station instead of your home. Call 112 for assistance and try to note the driver’s license plate number safely.
Driving while stressed can be dangerous, making it crucial to manage your emotions and behaviour to ensure you reach your destination safely. By maintaining control over your reactions and following these tips, you can help prevent injuries and accidents, protecting yourself and others on the road.
Charlot Cauchi is a Gestalt Psychotherapist at Willingness. He has experience working with adult clients with mental health difficulties, anxiety and depression, loss and grief, traumatic experiences, stress and relational issues.
If you think that you can benefit from professional support on this issue you can reach out here.
References
Kei, J. (2022, June 10). Tips to help reduce road rage. Hackensack Meridian Health. https://www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/healthu/2022/06/10/tips-to-help-reduce-road-rage