What should you understand about the dangers of road rage?
When you drive through the roads in Washington state, you may find yourself experiencing road rage. If you believe other drivers fail to show respect and courtesy on the roads, you may have a good reason for experiencing anger. However, you should carefully consider the dangers associated with road rage before you give in to your fury.
Cause of motor vehicle accidents
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that up to 33% of all motor vehicle accidents caused by driver error occur because of road rage. Many of these accidents happen when drivers exhibit unsafe driving maneuvers, such as swerving, during a road rage incident.
Aggressive driving
Road rage often leads to aggressive driving. An estimated 12,000 injuries have resulted from aggressive driving incidents.
Not all drivers who display aggressive driving incidents understand that their behavior poses a threat. Commonly missed examples of aggressive driving include:
- Breaking the speed limit
- Illegal or unpredictable lane changes
- Yelling at other drivers
- Honking at drivers out of anger
- Ignoring traffic lights or signs
- Tailgating
Homicides
While you may consider your anger justified, other drivers also frequently believe they acted correctly. This clash of road rage unfortunately may result in homicide. Incidents of road rage shootings have risen steadily since 2018, with more than 400 incidents occurring in 2022. Many of these shootings result in a deliberate act of homicide.
Ways to reduce road rage
Remaining safe on the road requires you to find ways to reduce your rage while driving. Consider the following steps to reduce road rage:
- Allow for more driving time to reach your destination.
- Try to keep in mind that other drivers also have important destinations in mind.
- Refrain from honking or gesturing rudely to other drivers.
- Avoid eye contact with other drivers.
Although driving can cause frustration, remaining calm may save your life. If you feel yourself getting angry, try to take a deep breath and remain calm.