With more cars on the road than ever before these days, and with more
drivers in a seemingly stressed-out state, getting into the car to join
them can sometimes appear like a fearsome prospect.
We often
hear stories on the news about car accidents that have been caused by
road rage incidents. More worryingly, we also hear about fatalities,
both on the news and in adverts advocating the services of qualified sudden death attorneys.
We wouldn't blame you if you decided to leave
your car on the driveway for good, in favour of using your own two legs
to get from A to B! Of course, this isn't always practical, especially
when you have a long journey ahead of you!
Of course, there are
ways to protect ourselves from the aggressive drivers who litter our
roads with their dangerous driving and incessant horn beeping. Here are
some tips that you might find useful.
1. Be a safe driver
While the other person might be driving like Mad Max on the motorway,
you don't have to follow suit. Don't be tempted to retaliate when they
tailgate you. Don't be tempted to shout back at them when they shout at
you.
Instead, commit to safe driving practices, as you will place
yourself out of harm's way. Move to another lane to let the aggressive
driver pass.
Keep your eyes focused on the road and not on the other
driver. And follow highway laws, even if the other person insists on
breaking them with their anger-fuelled driving.
2.Buy a dashcam
A dashcam won't exactly keep you
safe, but if you can show the footage from the cam to the police after
recording the antics of a dangerous driver, you might be able to protect
others if that driver is warned and prosecuted about their driving.
You
will also have evidence to show to your insurance company should you
get into an accident.
3. Reduce your own stress
Firstly,
make sure you're in a calm state before getting into your car. This way,
should you encounter an aggressive driver, you won't be tempted to
retaliate if they wrong you. And if you do come across a
less-than-friendly driver on the roads, find ways to stay calm.
You
could open your windows, not to shout abuse at the other person, but to
let the air cool you down. Music can also help, so consider playing
something classical rather than something punk-rockish.
Breathing exercises are good for reducing stress. And if you find yourself in an
agitated state, and if it is safe to do so, pull over, and bring
yourself to a state of calm while the other person hurtles away into the
distance.
4. Call the police
To protect yourself and
other drivers, call the police if you are worried about the behaviour of
the aggressive driver. Take a mental note of their registration number,
and either call the police while driving if you have a hands-free kit
in your car, or call them after pulling over.
You should especially do
this if you feel personally threatened as it's important to get help as
soon as possible.
I hope those tips were useful, but leave
us a comment if you have any other advice for our readers on how to deal
with aggressive drivers.
