| "Use your horn sparingly" |
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How does it happen?
Road rage happens when a driver does something to irritate another,
such as tailgating, inappropriate overtaking and making hand
gestures, to more violent and criminal offences such as confronting
other drivers physically and threatening them with a weapon.
It's a serious phenomenon that can affect anyone at any time.
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| Ways to avoid road rage |
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| Keep calm |
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The best way to keep yourself from an
uncontrolled rage on the road is to remain calm. An angry
driver tailgating behind you can make you panic or want to
retaliate against them. Hence, you need to know how to protect
yourself by being calm and try to move out of the driver's
way if possible. Don't try to play games with them and you
shouldn't underestimate what these drivers will do.
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Keep in mind that you cannot control the
drivers but you can control yourself and the way other drivers
affect your state of mind. When someone does something you
feel is reckless on the road, just let it go.
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| Reduce stress when you drive |
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You may reduce stress by allowing ample
time for your journey and having a relaxing environment in
your car, for instance listening to music that will make
you relax, focus and put you in a better mood for driving.
When you feel comfortable, you will be less likely to be
out of control.
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| Be cautious |
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If you witness aggressive driving, try
to move out of the way and make a safe getaway. If they are
not leaving you alone and escalate the dispute, then turn
off the road and seek for help, such as contacting authorities
and make your way to the nearest police station.
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| Be courteous to other drivers |
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Try to communicate with other drivers
politely. If you feel you are in the wrong, acknowledge your
mistake by putting your hand up in an attempt to say sorry
and this may turn an angry driver calm.
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Use your horn sparingly. If you are trying
to get someone's attention, you can use a short beep instead
of honking excessively or keep flashing your headlights.
When you want to change lanes, make sure you have plenty
of room and use your signal to show your intentions before
making a move.
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| Do not offend other drivers |
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Don't block the fast lane. Move to the
left for any vehicle overtaking you. Do not tailgate others.
Drivers tend to get annoyed when they are followed too closely.
Allow at least some space between your car and the car ahead.
If someone is tailgating you, attempt to change lanes, put
on your signal and allow the other driver to pass.
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If an aggressive driver tries to provoke
you, avoid eye contact with the driver. This can be an interpretation
of challenging and pushing the other driver into violent
behavior.
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Do not shout or make obscene hand gestures.
Even "harmless" expressions like shaking your head
will set them off.
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Keep headlights on low beam except on
unlighted area where high beams are necessary.
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As seen in media, road rage can be very dangerous
and have fatal consequences. With some simple knowledge and tips
above, you can keep road rage at a distance.
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