Road rage, we all get it from time-to-time and sometimes take the brunt of other drivers’ frustration. This month we’ve got some top tips on not only how to deal with other people’s road rage, but how to keep yours under control.

Keeping your road rage under control

Don’t rush

You’re setting yourself up for extra stress by leaving late and rushing to your destination. Your impatience will increase your chances of getting frustrated with other drivers and even making reckless driving decisions you wouldn’t usually make. By allowing plenty of time, you’ll be far more relaxed.

Consider other routes

Rush hour traffic is one of the top road rage triggers. If you get really stressed in traffic jams, find an alternative route to your destination. Before you leave, use maps to find another route that will make your journey calmer.

Don’t be distracted

Whilst driving, avoid any distractions such as talking on the phone or eating. If you’re not paying attention and a driver catches you off guard, it’ll not only make you angry, but you could put yourself and other drivers in danger.

Drive in happy environment

We recommend maintaining a positive driving environment in your vehicle, especially if you spend a lot of your time on the road. Keep your vehicle in shipshape – tidy car, tidy mind – and listen to music or podcasts that will make you happy.

Dealing with other motorists’ road rage

Be courteous

Motorists can get annoyed with the smallest of things whilst on the road. If a driver is trying to cross over into your lane, let them. By allowing them, you’re helping other drivers around you. Being inconsiderate will only irritate other drivers and they’ll take their frustration out on you and other motorists.

Don’t be confrontational

It’s natural to want to react when a confrontational driver shouts or gestures at you, but the best response is to not react at all. Don’t give them eye contact and pay full attention to your driving. Confrontation will only make you angry and fuel your own road rage.

Don’t take it personally

When drivers cut you off or make a reckless driving decision, remember that it’s not personal to you. Forget about their actions and carry on with your commute. It’s easy to let an inconsiderate or angry driver get to you, but try and resist. It’ll only make you feel worse and ruin your commute.

Be safe

If you feel threatened by another driver’s road rage, don’t engage with them. We recommend noting down their licence plate number and other vehicle details (if you can) and inform the police if their confrontational behaviour persists.

We offer car rental solutions across the UK and are more than happy to offer advice on topics such as this. If you’d like to know more about our national car hire service or you’d like to ask us any questions, please feel free to get in contact.