Injury Law Group Blog

Dealing with Road Rage

Auto Accidents

What is Road Rage?

Road Rage is “aggressive or violent behaviour stemming from a driver’s uncontrolled anger about the actions of another motorist.” Road Rage can be dangerous for both you and other drivers.  Extreme cases can cause angry drivers to hit other vehicles, run them off the road, engaging in verbal and physical confrontations, and use of weapons.  Aggressive driving tactics, which are illegal driving maneuvers from emotional distress, can potentiate Road Rage.  Some of these aggressive driving tactics include: tailgating, cutting others off, speeding, flashing lights, honking, not using signals, etc.  If you are engaging in Road Rage and caught by the police, you can be charged criminally.   Anyone can experience Road Rage and it is important to be aware of your emotional reactions while driving. 

Tips to Prevent Road Rage

play soothing music, follow the rules of the road and keep an ample amount of space between you and other drivers, refrain from making prolonged eye contact or gestures at other drivers.  If you happen to upset another driver on the road, you can help diffuse the situation by waving, mouthing sorry, and allowing room for them to pass you.  If you believe that you are in serious danger, call the police.

If you find yourself becoming angry at another driver, try to remain calm by taking deep breaths, thinking about the consequences of your actions to the driver, and pulling over to a safe location if needed.

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