Don’t let others get you hot under the collar
SUMMER is here in all its glory and with its arrival also comes the arrival of pressure cooker driving conditions.
Many drivers will be taking to the road stressed by holiday deadlines, long traffic queues, overheated cars and hot tempered drivers. This week’s tips give advice on dealing with road rage for riders and drivers from IAM RoadSmart’s head of driving and riding standards, Richard Gladman.
Be considerate. You are not the only driver or rider on the road. Swallow your pride and continue with your journey rather than getting caught up in an argument. If you are at fault admit it and apologise. Call the police. If you do not feel safe and feel the situation is getting beyond your control, lock your doors and get in contact with the police or drive to a busy location.
Stay calm. Most incidents on the roads can leave you shaken, especially after a road rage situation. Before continuing your journey, why don’t you try looking for a quiet space to stop where you can breathe deeply and recollect yourself.
Don’t react. If you see someone acting in an intimidating or aggressive manner, don’t make eye contact or behave in a manner that could aggravate the situation further. Resist the urge to retaliate as you can never predict how the other driver or rider will respond. Avoid it. Avoid tailgating and responding to rude gestures and remarks. Acknowledging your mistake with a cheery wave will often defuse a situation immediately.
Richard said: “In the UK we have some of the busiest and most congested roads in Europe, so delays and frustration are inevitable as we head off on our holidays or simply try to get on with our daily journeys.
“Give yourself extra time to catch flights, ferries or trains and always check before you set off for the latest traffic information.
“The worst delays on our main roads are caused by breakdowns, incidents and accidents. Make sure that you and your vehicle are prepared for anything that might happen out there. Keep calm and motor on!”