In driving the children to practice and school, commuting to work, running errands, many people spend a good part of their day in their cars and homes. In today’s world, rudeness compromises safety in more ways than one. Hence, road users are encouraged to develop patience and practise defensive driving at all times. This will make you a safer and more courteous driver.
CHECK YOUR OWN TEMPER..ATURE
“With road rage, you’re basically driving under the influence of impaired emotions,” says Leon James, a professor of Psychology at University of Hawaii, and co-author of Road Rage and Aggressive Driving. Road rage can lead to dangerous acts being committed and even death of other road users.
The RSU is encouraging all motorists to get their emotions in check before getting around the steering wheel of their motor-vehicle. If you are angry, upset or had a bad day at home, take a few minutes to unwind, befor
e you drive.
AVOID AGGRAVATING BEHAVIOURS
In today’s traffic environment, we have different competence levels of motorists on the roads. Individual drivers have their own particular pet peeves, but the following behaviours by either aggressive or clueless drivers can aggravate even patient drivers:
- Blocking the passing lane for more than a reasonable amount of time
- Speeding up when you’re being passed
- Driving in the breakdown lane to pass a long line of stopped traffic
- Daydreaming at a stoplight after it turns green
- Making left turns from the right lane, or vice versa
- Not using turn signals
- Creeping along while talking on a cell phone
- “Blocking the junction box,” or becoming stuck in the middle of an intersection
- Tailgating – following too closely
- Honking of the horns nonstop, and many more
VITAL TIPS AND RULES
Proper road etiquette is important as you traverse the traffic environment. Here are some vital tips and rules to consider:
- Driving a car requires your full attention. Distractions, such as applying makeup, snacking, using your iPod, texting, or chatting on a cell phone, interfere with your ability to respond physically and mentally.
- Signal your intentions. Using your turn signals before navigating a corner or switching lanes is a must.
- Drive at the speed limit. Driving too slowly can also cause accidents and frustrate other road users.
- Keep distance between you and the car ahead of you. Tailgating is both aggressive and a sure way to ‘rear-end’ someone who stops suddenly.
- Drive defensively at all times.
As you go about your daily commute, always remind yourself not to take traffic problems, personally. Avoid focussing your generalized anger on a single incident, which could become the flash point for a dangerous encounter.
Remember, the main aim of driving is to get to your destination alive and well.
Until next time, remember road safety begins with you. Check our youtube channel and facebook page for very useful information – www.facebook.com/roadsafetyunit. Our e:mail is rsu@mtw.gov.jm