How to avoid road rage

Though the term ‘road rage’ may still be a relatively new name for irate motorists, the phenomenon itself can probably be traced back to the very dawn of motoring. For some reason, many drivers find their anger and frustration levels go through the roof as soon as they are behind the wheel of a car which is, at best, not suitable for maintaining road safety at all times. But with more cars on the road than ever, here are some tips and tricks to help keep any signs of road rage well in check when you’re next out and about.



Like most things, forward planning can really help take the stress out of a situation. By only driving when necessary and planning your trip in advance, you will reduce the chance of meeting any surprises on the way. Unfortunately many people choose to take the exact same route to work every morning even though they know it makes them angry; so always try and follow the path of least resistance.



Next make sure you’re slept well. Road rage is statistically at its worst first thing in the morning and at around 5.30 pm when commuters are coming home from work, so sleepiness is undoubtedly at least partially to blame.

A guilty habit most people unknowingly adopt is to anthropomorphise their problems. What this means is basically to attribute human qualities onto an inanimate object. We’ve all got angry at our computers when they’ve not done what we’ve told them to do and, likewise, cars can often take the brunt of a driver’s frustrations. However, this leads to dangerous driving, so if your boss gives you a hard time for something which isn’t your fault, wait until the next day to speak to them; don’t pretend he’s in the car in front.



Try and relax. Even if you’re not particularly tired, simply opening a window will allow fresh air to circulate the car and help clear your head a little. Also it’s surprising the difference something as seemingly minor as music can make to a driver’s mood. Aggressive music doesn’t necessarily make an aggressive driver, but there’s no doubting that calming, classical music will probably help soothe any driver’s temperament and help avoid accidents, which may lessen the need for a simple windscreen glass repair



Finally remember: ‘it’s not personal’. Road rage can quickly escalate when a driver wrongly assumes that another driver’s actions are a deliberate attempt to annoy them. Maybe the driver in front genuinely didn’t see you before they pulled out, so don’t jump to conclusions that every turn, signal and break they make are attempts to spoil your day.