Five ways to avoid being a road rage victim
JOBURG - With the recent rise in incidents of road rage, driving in Johannesburg has become a scary thing.
Whether you’re pulling the middle finger or shouting obscenities at other drivers, any form of negative communication can lead to someone getting hurt. We all know drivers of expensive cars or taxis can get one’s blood boiling, but it’s imperative to keep your car a machine that takes you from A to B rather an entry point into a violent situation.
Here are five ways to avoid being a victim of road rage:
Follow the rules of the road:
Though it might seem redundant, following simple road rules will keep you out of a lot of trouble with disgruntled drivers. Stopping at a red light or keeping left if you are a slower driver shows a great deal of courtesy towards other motorists and will keep you out of harms way.
Keep Calm:
The most important thing to remember when trying to avoid being a victim of road rage is to remain calm in stressful situations. Whether you’re late for work or going through family troubles, remember that a “safe driver is a calm driver”.
Do not make hand gestures:
Though unruly drivers can make one tear his or her hair out, making a simple obscene hand gesture can put you in a dangerous situation. You might not know what the other driver has been through, so you will not know how they will react to these hand signals.
Stay in clear view of other drivers:
The best thing you could do if you are forced to pull over is to stop at a well-lit and open area where other drivers can see you. If the irate driver does force you to pull over, make sure that other drivers are watching him or her as to avoid any violent confrontation.
Do not incite violence:
There are many cases where instigators of violence turn into the victim, so do not give the other driver the opportunity to retaliate to violent behaviour. Throwing a punch or smashing someone’s car will give them a reason to act irrationally.
