By Denis R.
Road Rage Cures: How to Stay Safe and Calm During the Holiday Season
It's the most wonderful time of the year but also the most hectic. With shopping, parties, and travel, the holidays can be a stressful time for everyone. That stress can manifest itself in some not-so-wonderful ways, like road rage.
According to a study by AAA, 66 percent of respondents reported having driven when angry or aggressive in the past year. Don't let holiday stress turn you into a Scrooge behind the wheel. Check out these road rage cures to help you stay safe and calm on the road this holiday season.
Plan Ahead to Avoid Road Rage
One of the best ways to avoid road rage is to plan ahead. If you know you're going to be driving in heavy holiday traffic, leave earlier than you need to so you don't feel rushed. Rushing leads to stress, which can quickly turn into road rage. If possible, avoid peak travel times altogether. For example, if you're driving on holiday, leave early in the morning or late at night when traffic is lighter.
Another way to avoid road rage is to plan your route before you get behind the wheel. Map out your route and take into account any construction or other delays that might occur. Then, program your GPS or map app so you can focus on driving and not on trying to figure out where you're going. And speaking of apps…
Use Technology to Help Combat Road Rage
Many great apps and devices can help reduce stress while driving and help keep you calm during holiday traffic congestion. For example, many new cars come with built-in features like navigation, hands-free calling, and music streaming that can help relieve some of the driving stress.
If your car doesn't have these features, plenty of aftermarket options are available. And if you really want to go high-tech, some devices monitor your heart rate and breathing to help keep you calm while driving!
Take a Timeout If You Feel Yourself Getting Angry
If you start feeling angry while behind the wheel, taking a timeout is important before things escalate. Pull over somewhere safe—like a rest stop or gas station—and take a few deep breaths. Get out of your car and walk around for a few minutes, if possible. And if necessary, call a friend or family member for support or encouragement.
Just remember: It's not worth risking an accident or getting a ticket (or worse) just because someone cut you off in traffic. Everyone makes mistakes—including you!—so try to stay calm and give other drivers some grace this holiday season.
Find a Collision Repair Center You Can Rely On
The holidays are supposed to be a joyous time—but for many people, they're also a source of stress. Don't let that stress lead to road rage this holiday season! By following these tips—like planning ahead and using technology—you can stay calm behind the wheel no matter what traffic throws your way. So relax, enjoy the holiday season...and happy driving!
Visit CARSTAR Robert's Collision in Monterey, CA, and we'll help with all your collision-related repairs and service! Please schedule an appointment with us today, and see what makes us so unique in the Monterey community!