Road rage is a common problem in the United States and is responsible for many car accidents. According to a 2019 survey, 82% of drivers admit to having road rage or have driven aggressively at least one time in the past year.

Road rage can manifest in various ways. From honking to changing lanes without signaling, cursing, and yelling at fellow drivers, or making rude and obscene gestures, road rage has been witnessed or experienced by almost all drivers.

While not all road rage incidents lead to a physical altercation or car accident, since 2013, an estimated 300 deaths have been linked to road rage. According to a report by CNN, road rage in the United States is on the rise and has seen exponential growth since 2006.

The first step to preventing road rage is by changing your habits and driving safely.

Here are some simple tips to help you achieve driving bliss and avoid road rage:

Take the Time to Prepare Before Your Drive

Most road rage incidents occur because the driver is in a rush to get somewhere or is tired and frustrated. Not getting proper sleep the night before driving to work or taking a long trip can increase the chances of accidents due to reckless driving. Each year thousands of accidents are caused by drowsy drivers.

Similarly, breakfast in bed might sound romantic, but trying to have breakfast in the car is usually a recipe for disaster! The chance of accidents increases by 80% when you eat and drive at the same time.

Prepare beforehand by getting a good night’s rest and waking up early to have breakfast before getting behind the wheel to avoid deadly distraction and morning rush anxiety.

Mind Your Manner and Be Patient

Just because you are following the rules doesn’t mean you can police those who don’t. The best way to avoid road rage incidents is to mind your own business and be patient when someone breaks the rules. Keep calm and avoid aggressive behavior that includes:

• Tailgating
• Failing to yield the right-of-way
• Hogging the left lane that is usually reserved for passing only drivers
• Not using the turn signals
• Refusing to let other drivers in

Be patient and understanding and learn to share the road. If you are the one who is at fault, don’t hesitate to apologize. Remember, a humble apology and a polite wave can quickly disarm potential conflict.

Find Ways to Keep Calm While Driving

IF you regularly feel anxiety and stress while on the road, you need to find creative ways to stay calm and not let aggression take over. Listening to music is one of the top ways of reducing stress and boredom on the road, which can lead to impatient and reckless driving.

However, remember to play soothing music that calms you down and avoid the deadly distraction of changing channels or music while driving.

You can also calm the chaos on the road by transforming your car into a relaxing space. Use scented oils and lotions that have calming effects on the nerves such as lavender and citrus.

Hire an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer!

Have you been involved in a road rage incident that led to an accident or injury?

Hiring an expert car accident attorney can increase your chances of getting fair compensation for your auto accident case.

The Law Offices of Lisa Douglas, Inc in Little Rock, Arkansas, handles auto accident claims for all kinds of roadside accidents and injuries. Whether you were involved in a road rage incident or got injured because of the negligence of another driver, get in touch with Law Offices of Lisa Douglas and let us help you get the compensation you deserve!