Driving on Florida roadways can be stressful. Slow-moving traffic, construction delays and drivers who cut you off or weave in and out of lanes, trying to “get ahead” may cause teeth grinding and white-knuckle grips on the steering wheel. However, when driver response escalates to unsafe driving behavior, it could result in a crash. We often represent clients charged with reckless driving.
According to Geico, aggressive driving was a factor in over half of roadway accidents in a five-year period. Almost 80% of drivers surveyed admitted that they expressed some form of aggression at least once in the previous year. Here are some tips to help you avoid road rage.
Before you drive
Plan ahead and build extra time into your commute. Even if you know that on a good day it takes 15 minutes to reach your destination, give yourself at least 30 minutes or more. This can help prevent you from becoming impatient and taking unnecessary risks.
Do not drive angry. Take some time to calm down before getting into your car. Removing excess emotion before driving can reduce the chances that you use unsafe driving tactics.
During your drive
Maintain a safe distance between you and the car in front of you and take a deep breath if they drive slowly. When changing lanes, make sure you use the signal and refrain from cutting off other cars. It may take a few extra seconds, but you and everyone around you have a happier commute.
Although horns are useful at certain times, you should avoid using yours in tense situations or when frustrated. This can result in retaliation such as tailgating, sideswiping or confrontations. These interactions can have lifelong negative consequences. Visit our webpage for more information on this topic.
