Road Rage—Staying Calm and Safe

Road Rage—Staying Calm and Safe

Here are a few suggestions for practical and appropriate ways to stay calm and safe if you encounter a situation where another driver is showing signs of road rage.

Take Immediate Steps to Ensure Your Safety

1. Do not engage the angry driver! Do not make eye contact, gestures, yell, or respond to the other driver. 
2. Do not escalate the situation using your vehicle. Don’t speed up to "prove a point”. Don’t block someone intentionally. Remember, their anger is about them, not you.
3. Create distance. Let the other driver pass by, slowing down, changing lanes, or taking a different route if you can.
4. Go to a safe place. If you feel threatened, it is a good idea to go to a busy store, police station, or well-lit area. 
5. When you get to the safe place, and you decide to stop your vehicle, stay in it with the doors locked if someone approaches.
6. Call for help (911 or local emergency number) if someone is continuing to follow or threatening you and your passengers. 

How Can You Stay calm?

1. Breathe slowly. Breathe in for 4 seconds and hold, breathe out for 6 seconds and hold. Repeat this action a few times until your body is relaxed.  This will help you to calm down and think clearly.
2. Decrease stimulation. Turn off or turn down the music in your car. If you need the music on while driving, make sure it is calming music, and on low volume. 
3. Use calming self-talk. For example, say to yourself, “This driver isn’t worth it. Getting home safely matters more.”

After the Situation

1. Shake it off. Go for a walk, stretch, or listen to calming music.
2. If it still is bothering you, talk it out with someone you trust.

At NHSA, our goal is to provide online driver education courses that equip all drivers with what they need to be safe drivers.  Whether you are a teen seeking a learner’s permit, or an adult driver seeking a basic driver safety course, check us out online to see what courses are available in your state!