In the United States, approximately 1,500 people (men, women and children) on average lose their lives each year due to road accidents resulting from aggressive driving. In Greece, based on data arising from various measurements and studies, it has been ascertained that aggressive driving is one of the major causes of road accidents. The number of drivers who get annoyed and express their anger and aggression when behind the wheel is increasing. Most drivers involved in aggressive driving are men aged 18 to 26. However, this problem can be observed in drivers (men or women) regardless of age, under certain circumstances or when in a bad temper.
SAFETY ADVICE
Even if there are no techniques which can protect you completely, there are three basic principles that can seriously help you in difficult circumstances.
- Do not provoke others. If you are in a lane and the driver behind you is trying to overtake, let him. Even if you are driving properly at the maximum permitted speed, move to the adjacent lane and let him pass.
- Avoid rude gestures. Even shaking your head as a sign of deprecation may annoy another driver. Always use your indicators in good time if you want to change lanes. Do not use your horn unless absolutely necessary.
- Do not get involved. There will be no dispute, if only one person is pushing for an argument and the other does not respond. You can protect yourself by refusing to get angry with another driver.
- Be adaptable. The most important thing you can do to avoid aggressive driving is to change the way you perceive traveling by car. It is a fact that, for many people, driving can easily be turned into a race. To avoid stress and hurrying, save more time for your journeys by car. Do not wait till the last moment to set off.
All of us can contribute to the reduction and minimization of aggressive driving. There will be fewer victims if more and more drivers understand the basic principles for dealing with aggressive driving: Do not provoke, do not get involved, be adaptable.
REMEMBER – THE ROAD
BELONGS TO ALL OF US