A growing problem throughout the ​country over the last  twelve years has been "Road Rage" and the effect it has on individuals.  The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines road rage as "a driving incident that leads to violence." 

Research has shown that there are two distinct types of drivers:  high-anger drivers and low-anger drivers.  Unfortunately high-anger drivers make up 75% of the population.  Most road rage occurs as a result from some other unrelated stress made worse by any type of poor driving in front of the aggressive driver.

Everyone needs to be conscious of the their own driving and how it appears to others.  Most aggressive drivers truly believe they have done nothing wrong, but that it was somebody else who wronged them.

If you fall victim to Road Rage notify the authorities as soon as possible.  The best action to take is to ignore the aggressive driver and never confront him or her.  Aggressive driving can quickly escalate into Road Rage resulting in a dangerous or a life-threatening situation.

Here are some basic driving tips which may prevent you from falling victim to a road rage incident.

• First and foremost, be courteous
• Never tailgate
• Always use a turn signal when changing lanes
• Avoid changing lanes at the last minute
• Always check your mirrors and let faster motorists pass
• Avoid honking your horn when possible
• Remember other drivers may have had a very stressful day
• If someone continues to follow you after a couple turns, proceed to your local law enforcement agency or remain in a well lighted public area
• Plan your trip well in advance and give yourself plenty of time to arrive

Research shows that 38% of all Road Rage incidents take place in the summer.

Safe Driving