We’ve all been there. You’re driving along, minding your own business, when some other driver cuts you off. Suddenly, you find yourself getting angry. Your heart starts racing and you feel the urge to lash out. Before you know it, road rage has taken over and you’re about to do something you’ll regret.
If you’re driving a company truck, it’s important to keep your cool on the road. After all, you’re representing your employer and you don’t want to risk getting into an accident or getting a ticket. Here is a little bit about road rage and some tips for preventing it while driving a company truck:
What is Road Rage
Now, you’re probably thinking this is a silly topic, but road rage happens to the best of us. It’s that feeling of anger and frustration that takes over when we’re behind the wheel. Road rage can lead to aggressive driving behaviors like:
- Yelling, honking, and gesturing
- Speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, and cutting off other drivers
- Tailgating or sudden braking in front of other drivers
- Failing to use turn signals and disregarding traffic lights or signs
- Following other drivers and intentionally trying to cause an accident
- Approaching the driver and using verbal or physical force
Causes of Road Rage
There are a number of factors that can contribute to road rage. For some people, it’s simply the stress of being behind the wheel. There are others who simply can’t stand other drivers who make mistakes or drive recklessly. Or it could simply be that someone is running late, caught in traffic, and is in a hurry.
However, road rage doesn’t always stem from what is happening on the road, it can start from something that happened earlier in the day and is now being taken out on other drivers. In fact, road rage is more common in drivers who are upset due to personal or mental health reasons.
Whatever the cause, road rage is a serious problem. It puts yourself and others at risk and can lead to costly accidents. A study reports that approximately 30 people are killed and 1,800 are injured because of road rage every year in the US. That’s why it’s important to know how to prevent road rage before it starts.
Tips for Preventing Road Rage
There are a few simple things you can do to prevent road rage from taking over while driving a company truck:
- Stay calm and focused: road rage is more likely to happen when you’re feeling stressed or angry. If you can stay calm and focus on the task at hand, you’re less likely to let road rage take over.
- Plan ahead: if you know you’re going to be driving in heavy traffic, give yourself extra time so you’re not rushed. Rushing is a common trigger for road rage.
- Leave early: if you can, avoid driving during peak traffic times. This will help you avoid getting frustrated with other drivers.
- Take breaks: if you’re feeling tense or angry, take a break from driving. Pull over to the side of the road, take a deep breath, and relax for a few minutes.
- Drive defensively: one of the best ways to prevent road rage is to drive defensively. This means being aware of other drivers and anticipating their actions. For example, if you see a driver weaving in and out of traffic, slow down and give them space.
- Don’t take it personally: when another driver does something that annoys you, don’t take it personally. They may not even be aware of what they’re doing.
- Ignore other drivers: if another driver is trying to engage you in road rage, ignore them. Don’t make eye contact, honk your horn, or gesture at them.
- Report road rage: if you see another driver engaging in road rage, report their license plate number to the authorities.
By following these tips, you can help prevent road rage from happening while driving a company truck. Remember, road rage is a serious problem that can lead to accidents and injuries. So stay calm and focus on the road ahead.
Closing Thoughts
At Liquid Trucking, we are committed to the safety of our drivers and everyone on the road. We want you to arrive at your destination safely and without incident. If you have any questions or concerns about our trucking safety, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Give us a call at 844-GO-TANKS!