It goes without saying that the COVID pandemic has been difficult on all of us. As the pandemic begins to subside and the state and local restrictions begin to decrease, we are beginning to see more and more vehicles back on our roadways.
Whether it is traveling to and from work or just out running errands, we need to remember the need to stay safe while behind the wheel. Aggressive driving has been something we have all witnessed. Frustrated drivers yelling, making rude gestures and even violence have occurred on our roadways. This is commonly known as “road rage.”
A large number of traffic collisions are caused due to aggressive driving. Be a considerate and aware driver and follow the rules of the road. Here are a few tips to avoid getting frustrated and succumbing to road rage:
Be courteous to fellow drivers on the road. We have enough stressful situations going on in our lives don’t add to it by getting upset while behind the wheel. Enjoy the freedom of being able to drive in the beautiful city of Thousand Oaks and surrounding areas.
Give yourself ample time to get to where you are going. With the growing number of people going back to work and getting out of their homes, the roadways are becoming increasingly populated. Be sure to give yourself enough time to safely get to your destination without having to drive in a reckless manner. It’s better to get there late than to not get there at all.
Maintain a safe distance while following a vehicle in the event of a hazard. We understand, this is California, which is home to some of the busiest roadways in the country. It is difficult to give yourself proper distance and if you do, it’s likely a vehicle will merge into that open space. Do your best to give yourself a safe cushion near other vehicles. No one enjoys a vehicle seemingly pushing you down the roadway because the driver is impatient. A common cause of traffic accidents is following another vehicle too closely.
Avoid instances of distracted driving. Too often we see a vehicle driving slower than the flow of traffic and come to realize the driver is doing everything but focusing on driving. From holding and using cell phones to talking with passengers, drivers tend to be distracted while driving these days. Remember, your number one focus is to safely operate your vehicle while driving. Safely pull over in a safe place if a need arises that takes your focus off of driving.
It’s safe to say, we all have felt a little “cabin fever” over the last year or so. Even if it is just to get out for a relaxing drive, remember to be mindful on the roadway. There is no need to get into a situation that elevates to the level of “road rage.” Remind yourself to practice safe driving habits. As we emerge from this pandemic together let’s enjoy the road together.
For more information please visit:
Get Citizensjournal.us Headlines free SUBSCRIPTION. Keep us publishing – DONATE
Put the da#n cell phone down and DRIVE!!!