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Stress behind the wheel, combined with extreme heat that makes us more irritable, can lead to more than just frustration: it can trigger road rage.
Summer brings much more than just vacations. With intense heat waves, increased traffic due to road trips, an influx of new drivers, more pedestrians, and the risk of engine overheating, the summer months can become an especially stressful time for those who drive regularly.
Stress behind the wheel, combined with extreme heat that makes us more irritable, can lead to more than just frustration: it can trigger road rage. Unlike simply breaking traffic rules, road rage involves deliberate actions driven by anger and the intent to annoy or harm other drivers. Common examples include honking excessively, running red lights, or making aggressive maneuvers like tailgating and dangerous overtaking.
This phenomenon is supported by mental health experts. The Association for Psychological Science in the U.S. reports that road rage is more common during the summer than in any other season. Furthermore, 96% of Americans say they’ve witnessed a road rage incident in the past year, while 89% report having been victims of such behavior, according to a recent article by Fleet Owner.
Differences between bad driving and road rage
Adam Lang, Director of Customer Advisory Services at Netradyne, shared in an article published by Fleet Owner the key differences between a poor driver and one showing signs of road rage.
- Bad driving: Characterized by behaviors such as failing to signal when turning or changing lanes, frequently switching lanes without necessity, or following other vehicles too closely.
- Road rage: Involves intentional and aggressive actions like yelling, excessive honking, making obscene gestures, chasing other vehicles, blocking the way, or even deliberately causing a collision.
Lang explains that poor driving is usually the result of inattention, fatigue, or inexperience, whereas intentional actions often stem from frustration, anger, or a perceived provocation.
The most common road rage behaviors include:
- Tailgating
- Excessive honking or aggressive gestures
- Running red lights
- Cutting off other vehicles
Practical tips to prevent road rage
High temperatures can negatively impact our cognitive function, reducing mental clarity and impairing rational decision-making. When our brain is under stress from extreme heat, we’re more likely to react impulsively or aggressively.
While road rage can occur in any season, understanding how heat exacerbates this behavior is crucial to preventing dangerous reactions. Here are some practical tips to stay calm and drive safely:
- Stay cool and hydrated: Avoid overheating. Use the air conditioning if possible and carry cool water to help maintain a comfortable body temperature.
- Plan your route and timing: Choose alternate routes to avoid traffic congestion and reduce stress and frustration.
- Take breaks: If you’re a truck driver, delivery person, or on a long trip, make sure to schedule regular breaks to cool off and prevent overheating.
- Practice patience: Remember, you’re not the only one dealing with heat and traffic. Others are going through it too. Be patient and empathetic. Take deep breaths to stay calm and avoid reckless behavior.
- Think before you act: Avoid behaviors that could provoke other drivers. Before reacting out of anger, consider whether you’d appreciate someone doing the same to you.
Road safety is a shared responsibility. Preventing road rage not only helps avoid conflicts but also reduces accidents and saves lives. Follow traffic rules and treat fellow drivers with courtesy, patience, and empathy.
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