From time to time, I have a guest blogger to add insight on things that matter to me. Today's article is provided by Donna Swanson. Donna is an experienced legal blogger who is interested in raising awareness of ways car accidents can be prevented.
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Statistics from the Bureau of Transportation report that while many people travel by air for long trips, 91 percent of all long distance travel is actually by passenger vehicle. Now that the holidays have passed and everyone has settled back into their regular daily routines, it may be a good opportunity to take a look back and reflect on whether or not you were a naughty or nice traveler.
When you experience traffic jams on major highways or even in town, it can be easy to become frustrated and potentially act aggressively toward other vehicles. This is known as road rage, and it is an incredibly common occurrence all year long. Road rage can include a number of violent or aggressive actions ranging from tailgating and inappropriate gestures to even physically assaulting another driver.
It can be very easy to feel cramped or even claustrophobic in heavy traffic, especially when other cars cut you off or force their way into your lane. No matter how calm of a demeanor you may have, this uneasy feeling can significantly increase the risk of experiencing road rage and possibly causing an accident or even a physical altercation.
When you are stuck in traffic, it is important to know how to control your anger and emotions so you can avoid road rage. As such, be sure to keep the following tips in mind:
- Focus on your breathing and try to maintain a normal breathing rhythm
- Think about your safety and the safety of everyone else in the vehicle above all else
- Remember that all drivers are subject to mistakes
- Do not let another driver who you will never see again change the way you feel or drive
- If you feel your anger getting the best of you, pull over at a safe spot and relax until you are no longer angry
Along with ways to control your emotions, there are also a number of ways you can prevent road rage with the way you drive. While on the road, do your best to:
- Stay out of the left lane unless you are driving fast or passing someone
- Avoid following too closely behind other drivers
- Do not cut off other drivers
- Avoid making eye contact with angry drivers. This may only provoke them further.
Unfortunately, accidents and road rage still happen every day. If you’ve been injured by a reckless driver in Texas, a personal injury lawyer can help you better understand the legal rights and options that are available to you in this situation.
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In Tampa Bay, Personal Injury Attorney Matthew Noyes represents those injured in car accidents, motorcycle crashes, bicycle accidents, pedestrian accidents and other types of personal injury matters. His Clearwater law firm – Perenich Caulfield Avril Noyes – is one of the oldest personal injury law firms in Pinellas County. Call Attorney Matthew Noyes now at 727-796-8282 or simply click here to schedule a free case consultation.
