Editor's note: As part of its ongoing effort to improve traffic conditions on campus and educate Bilkent drivers, the university's traffic committee submitted this article.
You know aggressive drivers who weave in and out of traffic, drive too fast on crowded roads, tailgate or yell at you. They are a new kind of road hazard. At one time or another, everyone has been angry while driving. In today's hectic, fast-paced world, it's easy to become frustrated and, increasingly, people express their anger when driving. Avoid the consequences of road rage by following these tips.
Did You Know?
The most obvious form of road rage is aggressive and excessive speeding, particularly on congested roads or in bad weather. Speed causes nearly one-third of all fatal motor vehicle crashes.
Speeding reduces the time drivers have to avoid a crash or a dangerous situation and greatly increases the likelihood the crash will be severe.
The energy released in a collision at 95 km/ph is 200 percent greater than at 65 km/ph, even though the speed has increased by only 50 percent.
Control yourself. Wind down before you crank it up. Avoid making other drivers angry by avoiding anger yourself. Take action before stress and fatigue get to you. Learn to spot warning signs and act on them.
Be Patient and Pay Attention
Don't block the passing lane. Stay to the right if you are obstructing the flow of traffic.
Always signal when changing lanes. Use your horn sparingly.
Don't tailgate.
Cooperate and don't compete on the road. Let other drivers merge into traffic in an orderly fashion.
Don't take another's actions personally. Everybody makes mistakes.
Avoid a Driving Assault
Don't react to another driver's uncivil behavior - avoid eye contact and don't tailgate, accelerate, brake or swerve suddenly, changes that could be considered confrontational.
When stopped in traffic, leave enough space to pull out from behind the car you are following.
