Aggressive driving is a major threat on Hollywood and Florida roads. Drivers who are upset or angry are more likely to take risks and more likely to speed because they are too angry to drive calm and safely. Angry drivers are also distracted drivers – they are so focused on whatever has made them upset that they often don’t notice pedestrians and other cars around them. These types of drivers are likely to suffer from road rage and may cause car accidents due to their reckless driving.
There many reasons why aggressive driving happens. Someone may become upset and jump into their car in order to get away from an angering situation. In some cases, people simply have anger management issues that can translate to angry driving on the roads. All of us are subject to aggressive driving if we become upset and fail to calm down before getting behind the wheel.
Attitude Changes Can Mean Safer Streets
Stopping aggressive driving begins with an attitude change. In Hollywood and the rest of Florida, we need to take aggressive driving as seriously as we take drunk driving or distracted driving. Just like any type of reckless driving, road rage and aggressive behavior on the roads can kill and can cause serious injury. There are a few simple ways that you can stop road rage and aggressive driving:
1) Take a second to consider your emotions before you drive.
Before you buckle up, check to see whether you are tired, distracted, upset, or otherwise mentally and emotionally unable to drive safely. If you are too focus on your anger, motions, or something else and feel that this may get in the way of your driving, take a few minutes to calm down or find an alternative way to get to your destination.
2) Learn to control your anger.
Anger is not only dangerous when driving, but it can also raise blood pressure, lead to heart problems, and generally is bad for your health. Learning to control your anger and learning to deal with aggression in a healthy manner is an important life skill. When you feel upset, consider taking a walk, jogging, or trying some exercise. Writing down what you’re angry about or trying deep breathing exercises have also been shown to help alleviate feelings of rage. Do these things before driving, so that you can get to your destination safely.
3) Learn to deal with aggressive drivers on the roads.
Unfortunately, not everyone follows the rules and some people get into their car when they really shouldn’t. If you notice a driver driving erratically or dangerously, pull over and contact the authorities. Do not engage a driver who seems to be suffering from road rage or aggression. Do not gesture back, honk your horn, or engage in a discussion or shouting match with this type of driver. They could be dangerous and could, in their rage, hurt you. Let the authorities handle the situation.
4) Focus on your driving, not your motions.
When you are on the road, drive defensively. Always think two or three car moves ahead of time. This keeps your mind focused on the task of driving and not on your emotions or on your thoughts. This is also the safest way to drive and prepares you for sharing the road with a variety of road users.
If you have been injured by an aggressive or dangerous driver, you can always contact Flaxman Law Group for a free, no obligation case review to discuss your situation. Our compassionate team of attorneys understands how frustrating it can be to be seriously injured by a driver who should not have been on the roads in the first place. Our team can meet with you in order to review your situation and in order to offer legal advice and representation.