INDEPENDENT DEALER

   Mission, TX | (956) 458-9399

OUR BLOG

8/19/2022
Stress or anger at the wheel can lead to dangerous consequences if not appropriately defused; that said, read this post by Ed Welliver in Mission to learn some tips on how to avoid road rage.

Have you ever encountered a case of "road rage"? This term refers to any behavior triggered by stress or anger at the wheel; for example, you may have used the horn to express irritability when stuck in traffic at some point, or perhaps you have changed lanes without signaling. Regardless, road rage can lead to traffic accidents and dangerous confrontations between drivers, so it is essential to look deeper into the subject. Of course, no one is immune to experiencing tension or irritability on the road, especially when running late for work, getting stuck in traffic, or dealing with slow or distracted drivers. Still, there are different strategies and measures to improve driving behavior and avoid road rage. If you are interested in learning more about this topic, keep reading this post by Ed Welliver.

The continued use of AMSOIL's XL 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil provides your vehicle with superior protection against friction, excessive heat, and corrosion. Call Ed Welliver at (956) 458-9399, or visit AMSOIL's online shop to order the most effective synthetic oil in Mission.

How to React to Road Rage

First, we'll guide you through a few tips on dealing with aggressive drivers. Consider the following to de-escalate any hostile encounters on the road:
  • Avoid eye contact: Suppose an angry driver yells at your window after making a small driving mistake; in such a case, stay calm and avoid making eye contact; after all, directing your gaze toward them is a way of escalating the encounter. Keep in mind that the most important thing is your safety; therefore, opt to keep your windows up, and your eyes fixed on the road.
  • Avoid being reactive to provocation: Some drivers can become impulsive and erratic when they succumb to anger or stress; as a result, they disregard the safety of others and perform acts that could provoke even the calmest driver. If you find yourself in a situation where another driver attempts to trigger you, avoid responding to the aggression as doing so could escalate the situation and result in significant property damage or even injury; instead, strive to remain calm to get out of the situation safely.
  • Get Help if You Feel Endangered: If you feel endangered when dealing with an angry driver, call 311 to report it. You can also call 911 if you are threatened or assaulted.

Vehicle trouble or malfunctions often trigger anger behind the wheel, so avoid road rage by protecting your engine with the most effective synthetic oil in Mission. Stop by AMSOIL's online store or call Ed Welliver at (956) 458-9399 to order the best products for your vehicle's routine maintenance.

How to Stay Calm and Avoid Road Rage Behaviours

Having gone over the different ways to deal with an angry driver, it's time to look at the other side of the coin; that is, what to do if you are the one who starts to feel stress or irritability at the wheel? What measures can help you deal with inconveniences on the road calmly and safely? Here are some useful tips to avoid angry behavior on the road:
  • Plan ahead: Driving late is one of the most common triggers associated with road rage. Of course, no one wants to be late for work or school; however, speeding and slamming on the horn because of the stress of running late can trigger a road rage encounter. That said, avoid the stress of being in a hurry by setting your watch 10 to 15 minutes ahead of time and planning your route with the help of mobile traffic apps.
  • Listen to relaxing music: It's no secret that music can do wonders for our mood; hence, we suggest you listen to your most relaxing playlist whenever you face an inconvenient road or stressful situation behind the wheel.
  • Keep your vehicle well-maintained: Perceiving noises, smells, or warning signals associated with vehicle malfunctions can make you stressed on the road; that's why keeping up with maintenance is vital to stay calm behind the wheel.
  • Use the horn responsibly: Avoid using your horn as an anger button; instead, use it to alert other drivers to road hazards or vehicle problems. If you need to honk, press the horn with short taps and hand gestures to communicate effectively.
  • Be polite to other drivers: Finally, be patient when other drivers make small mistakes; after all, anyone can forget to put on the turn signals, stop abruptly, or drive too slow.

Keep your car in top shape for the longest by giving it the most reliable synthetic oil change in Mission. Call Ed Welliver at (956) 458-9399 or browse AMSOIL's online store to place an order on top-shelf formulas and products for your car's care.