48.7 Million Americans are predicted by AAA to travel this Thanksgiving weekend. According to previous data that is a one million person increase over last year’s travelers. While many will take to the skies, and some will utilize mass transportation on trains, most will be traveling in passenger vehicles and on buses.
If you are one of the “lucky” ones traveling by car this weekend, I’ve got a post for you!
I thought this was hilarious… and so true!
But seriously, I wanted to blog about something that affects us all from time to time.
Road Rage
Psychiatrists estimate that 7% of the population or about 16 million Americans suffer from a mental disorder known as IED. IED or Intermittent Explosive Disorder is linked to explosive outbursts or anger or violence. These outbursts are often triggered by trivial things.
To avoid becoming another statistic this holiday weekend, the NHSTA (National Highway Transportation and Safety Agency) recommends the following practices when you encounter an aggressive or raging driver.
- Allow an aggressive or angry driver to pass.
- Use your horn sparingly.
- Call 911 when you see someone driving in an aggressive manner.
- If you are followed by an angry driver, do not go home. Go directly to a police station or another place where you can get help.
- Never use obscene gestures or language. AAA states that obscene gestures have resulted in shootings in almost every state.
- Wear your seat belt at all times.
If you have had a bad day at work, are going through a stressful time, or are generally prone to angry outbursts, you should implement these strategies to help you keep your cool:
- Use public transportation. Take the train, a bus, or a plane and relax with a book while you let someone else do the driving.
- If you must drive, listen to calming music or books on tape.
- Give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination. When traveling on crowded highways like I-81, plan alternate routes in case there is a traffic delay.
- Don’t get into your car angry or overtired. Give yourself a few minutes to wind down before hitting the road.
- Take driving breaks or share the responsibility of driving with someone else.
If you have been injured in a car accident that was not your fault, call The Thomson Law Firm today. We offer FREE consultations and will be happy to answer questions about your case. (540) 777-4900
