Auto accidents are inevitable, and many of them are unavoidable to even the safest of drivers.
2019 data from the National Safety Council reports 452 fatal crashes caused by road rage.
1. Leave early
Planning ahead and giving yourself plenty of time to reach your destination safely will make you a better motorist and reduce the chances of a motor vehicle accident or altercation.
2. Be polite
As a driver, you will make mistakes that are likely to upset others. If someone blares a horn at you or makes angry gestures, remain calm. You can attempt to apologize with a wave, but to diffuse the situation, it is important to avoid excessive eye contact or yelling.
3. Remove yourself from the situation
Competition on the road is a recipe for disaster. If another driver wants to pass you, let them do so by safely slowing down and changing lanes. Your superiority as a motorist is not worth your life or the lives of others.
4. Stay in a public place
A common road rage response is to chase down and confront an offending driver. If you feel like someone is following you, do not go home. Drive to a populated and well-lighted area. If someone attacks you, remain inside your car and call the police.
You cannot know what is going on in the minds of the strangers in the next lane. However, when you share the roadways, you have a duty to protect yourself and others from unnecessary harm. These tips will help you deescalate potentially dangerous situations and make sure everyone gets home safe.