Emotions are an unavoidable fact of life for human beings. The majority of humans experience a myriad of emotions throughout the course of single day, and it is how we choose to handle or control our emotions that can have a lasting impact on others. When it comes to driving and traveling on the road, we have a responsibility to drive in a safe and responsible manner. In order to do this, we must minimize the emotions of frustration or road rage that can swell up when a driver cuts us off or drives in a rude manner.
Most drivers would admit that things like eating while driving or talking on a cell phone can have a negative impact on their ability to drive safety, but there are also other factors that can have a more devastating effect. If you are upset, frightened, depressed or worried, you are more likely to drive in a distracted and aggressive manner. Your driving skills can be as negatively impacted as they would be if you were driving under the influence or if you were engaged in an argument on your cell phone while driving. In fact, research has proven that humans under the influence of negative emotions fail to recognize situations such as debris in the road or an abrupt stop in traffic.
On the other hand, if you are overly excited or rushed, your ability to drive in a safe and controlled manner may also be affected. Studies show that drivers who are controlled by adrenaline are more likely to speed, make sudden lane changes and cut other drivers off. If you are dealing with a significant emotional distraction, there are a couple of steps that you should take to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road as well.
If you start to experience emotions of worry, anger or impatience, pull off the road and take a few moments to relax and deal with your feelings. Until you are emotionally stable, it is wise to stay off the road and focus on settling down. You can listen to music, close your eyes, or take a walk during this time to help take your mind off of the negative emotions. If you are feeling rushed or hurried, try to give yourself some extra time before you get in your car. Planning for extra time means that you will be less likely to speed or be stressed while en route to your destination.
The U.S. Highway Safety Office has researched the number of automobile accidents that are related to road rage every year and they discovered that road rage accidents are now the leading cause of death for our children. Road rage is defined as the angry or aggressive behavior that is exhibited by the driver of an automobile, and can include actions such as verbal insults, rude gestures and aggressive driving. When a driver is under the influence of road rage, they may chase down other motorists, shout verbal threats at others, assault other motorists, honk their horn excessively or commit a number of other obscene actions.
Road rage has become a way of life for many drivers on the road, and it is important to protect yourself from becoming the focus of another driver's rage. If you are involved in a potentially dangerous situation with an enraged driver, remain in your car with the doors locked and windows rolled up. Avoid making rude or hostile gestures and try to diffuse the intensity of the situation by showing expressions of regret. Above all, use these situations to remind yourself of the impact that emotions can have on our ability to drive safely.