Avoiding Road Rage While Driving
Road rage can be considered a feeling of deep anger that comes in waves from time to time while on the road. The aggravation of dealing with reckless or slow drivers while on the way to work or otherwise may push you off the deep end. Here are some tips to prevent this feeling from interfering with your safety while on the road:
Make sure you get enough sleep: Driving drowsy is not only dangerous for yourself and others on the road, but it can also make you much more irritable toward other drivers. Sleep and mood affect each other, and when you get on the road for your morning commute, you may feel more irritable than ever. A lack of sleep coincides directly with cognitive effectiveness and mental health as a whole, and so the value of sleep should be taken seriously- especially when it comes to your safety while on the road.
Plan ahead: Giving yourself enough time to get to where you’re going plays an important factor when trying to get to work on time. This is especially apparent in traffic, or when you seem to be hitting every red light or are stuck behind a slow driver. Punctuality eliminates feelings of anxiety and improves self-confidence, which are two ineffective moods to carry while on the road. Anxious driving can lead to car accidents, so remember to plan your morning in accordance to your commute.
Meditate beforehand and focus your breath while driving: Meditation goes a long way in the mornings when you know you will have to deal with other drivers. While driving, focusing on your breath keeps you grounded and aware of your surroundings while also decreasing worries and fears of being late.
Most drivers make mistakes now and then, even if they are usually considered to be good drivers. From bad weather to a bad day, drivers are humans who are prone to making mistakes. Rather than reacting out of rage, try practicing the art of defensive driving. This entails, as always, wearing your seatbelt, adjusting your mirrors as needed, not texting while driving, not driving while under the influence, allowing space for the car in front of you, signaling lane changes, and being aware of other driver’s actions around you. Defensive driving keeps you alert and active while out on the road. Knowing that drivers make mistakes is crucial, but it is what you do with that information which makes all the difference. It is important to take your safety into your own hands and practice driving defensively.
These tips should keep your mind at ease when driving somewhere on a time crunch. Always drive sober, awake, and alert. Remember, if you’ve been injured in a car accident, call the expert attorneys at Scher and Scher Law Group, P.A. for a free case analysis.
