Road Rage: Causes, Impact &, How To Avoid It

Picture this: you are driving, probably thinking about your day, and someone starts to tailgate you and then cuts you off. It would be understandable if you get frustrated with the other driver, but should you fly into a road rage? Well, according to multiple studies and reports, road rage is becoming a big problem. It is currently the seventh reason car accidents occur in the U.S.

What is road rage?

Experts have described road rage as extreme and deliberate angry driving as a response to traffic-related stress or frustrations. It is important to note that aggressive driving and road rage are two different things. In layman’s terms, road rage is aggressive driving on steroids. This includes doing things such as using profanity, and using rude and inflammatory gestures. Intentionally bumping and ramming other cars off the road and using headlights or brakes to intimidate other drivers.

What triggers road rage?

It is difficult to pinpoint specifically what might trigger someone to fly into a road rage. According to an AA poll done this year, tailgating was the most irritating form of aggressive driving that annoyed most drivers. Out of 18,000 drivers, 26% reported tailgating to be most frustrating. Other triggers included talking on a mobile (25%), middle lane hogging (23%), swooping (10%), overtaking on the inside (7%), driving slowly (3%), speeding (3%), and lastly littering (3%)

You also have to factor in the emotional stability of the drivers. Road rage only comes about when someone takes offence to a perceived slight and overreacts. For example, someone already stressed by hours in traffic might be less likely to stay calm when provoked.

Drivers are humans, and it is normal to be stressed about life and personal issues. Drivers with anxiety are more likely to lose control. People going through stressful life situations are also most likely to lose their patience and get frustrated by common bad road behaviours that violate the basic principles of courtesy and respect.

The impact of road rage

Road rage can have severe consequences, such as accidents, deaths, legal implications, and property damage. According to a 2023 Bankrate survey report, road rage incidents led to 218 murders and 12,610 injuries in the past seven years. One of the scariest and alarming effects of road rage in America is road rage shootings.

According to a Trace report, gun-involved road rage incidents have surged by 400% since 2014. It seems like more drivers are brandishing their guns to vent their frustrations on the road. Easy access to guns has turned road rage more deadly in America.

Other than getting into life-altering accidents, destroying property, and even death, the legal consequences of road rage can be damning, too. Most states in America have laws on road rage. The legal consequences depend on the severity of the road rage incident and differ from each state. The legal consequences include fines, imprisonment, or both.

How to avoid going into a road rage

It has been said that the worst riders are the ones who get emotional on the road. The best way to avoid flying into a rage is to control your emotions while on the road. Letting emotions take the wheel has never been a good idea, especially on the busy roads we have today. Here are a few tips to help you stay calm and sane on the road:

Follow The Traffic Rules

Given that most of the triggers are traffic offences, your best bet is to follow the traffic rules. Definitely, don’t tailgate anyone.

Don’t Drive when Angry

If you are already angry, don’t drive to blow off steam. Cool down first and get in the right frame of mind before getting behind the wheel.

Don’t Overreact

If you find yourself dealing with an aggressive driver, don’t overreact and keep your emotions in check. Try not to escalate the situation. Avoid eye contact or any other confrontation with an aggressive driver. If you feel unsafe, call the police and stay in your car. If you find yourself getting angry, try to pull over.

Plan ahead

If you hate traffic and like to be punctual, please plan. Check traffic reports and plan accordingly for possible disruptions such as traffic accidents, etc.