Holiday Road Rage: How to Count to 10 and Relax

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As the holidays approach, people travel more and tend to be in a hurry to get to their destinations and to run errands. Whether out on a last minute shopping trip or racing to get home, tensions become higher than usual on roadways. However, it is only by staying calm during these times that driving can be safe. Below are some tips on how to drive more safely during this very busy time.

1. Keep a safe distance

This may seem obvious, but it is easy to get carried away and drive too closely to other vehicles. The sense of urgency and time crunches can create an uncharacteristic level of panic. Those who ride the bumper of the car ahead of them are putting themselves and everyone else involved at risk.

There is no way to make anyone go faster – nor should any driver ever try to make someone do so. When someone is going slowly, drivers should simply move to another lane or safely pass them. Keep at least two car lengths away from the car ahead and leave plenty of space around the car as possible. You should always be able to see the bumper in front of of you.

Conversely, if someone is driving to your car too closely, which happens on a daily basis in New York City and could be one of many causes of NY auto accidents, move to another lane as soon as possible and try to stay in the right lanes. Driving in this way is more proactive, relaxed and effective.

2. Prepare ahead

Ensure that there is more than enough time to reach your destination safely. For example, double or triple the time it normally takes for a trip or task. Rather than leave in a rush, take the time to ensure that you have everything that you need. Relax with a cup of tea or a similar beverage. Meditate for a few minutes to get your bearings. Plan the route with an alternative for a safer and more pleasant trip with a smooth arrival to your destination.

3. Participate in calming and positive activities

While the most essential aspect of driving is keeping your eyes on the road, there are many things that you can do to keep nerves calm in the car. For example, when others are present, play word association games, count license plates from out of state or sing holiday cheer songs. These are all great ways to pass the time as well as take your mind off of traffic frustration.

4. Distract yourself from anxiety

Play relaxing music, listen to books on tape, or talking about comedy are great ways to entertain yourself while on the road. Talk about anything that makes you and others happy with car passengers. If you should feel any anger surfacing, actively talk about something else that is separate from the current driving situation. If you are alone, take this opportunity to change the channel, as you would on the radio.

Road rage can get the best of even a normally calm person. The holidays can be a very anxious time for many people. Rather than be in a rush, take a deep breath and realize that this is a time to be enjoying yourself. Think about all the great things that will be happening over the season, from parties to dinners with loved ones.

Growing up in a Metropolitan area makes it easy for freelance writer, Nadine Swayne to forward this advice on road rage.  The attorneys of the Perecman Firm, LLP know that road rage is a big cause of accidents, whether you are dealing with auto accidents in CA or NY auto accidents, during the Holiday season.  However, taking steps to avoid aggravation while driving can help to avoid these occurrences. If you or a loved one happens to be involved in an accident caused by road rage, be sure to seek the help of a qualified attorney so that your risks may be minimized.

18 Comments

    1. I just slow down…take my foot off the gas pedal and make ’em go around!

  1. The traffic is unbelievable around here this time of year compared to what we are used to. I just hope Sweet T never repeats what I yell at other drivers. 😉

    1. I used to use really funny made-up words with my nephew in the car with me. He would just giggle at his Aunt Nini.

    1. I do remember! I used to blast my music to help with it!

  2. My husband gets a tad bit too annoyed when driving.

  3. horrible traffic in central Florida?! NO WAY! lol.

    It’s soooo crazy here year-a-round but especially during the holidays. I am so much better at controlling myself simply because I have kids who can actually comprehend what I am saying and doing. When they were babies I was horrible but not anymore

    1. Kids in the car will change everything!

  4. Road rage is something that shouldn’t happen. When there’s traffic, that’s the way it is. It just going to take longer;getting mad screaming , yelling etc. doesn’t make it better. I did havea grandson tell me once”Mimi, you’re moving as slow a pond water.”

  5. I’ll be the first to admit I tend to have a problem. I’ve noticed the right music can help or hurt a situation as well.

  6. I never get out of control because there is no point. Either that other person will (maybe not likely) hunt you down and make matters worse, or you will see that person again. It’s a small town and not worth alienating people.

  7. I want to print this and tape it to all my car windows! People get crazy while driving this time of year!

  8. Good tips. I always giggle at people who get road rage, I mean really what does it accomplish.

    1. Exactly!

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