With the world becoming increasingly fast-paced, instances of frustration and anger while driving, commonly referred to as ‘Road Rage,’ are on the rise. These incidents occur during various situations such as morning commutes, traffic congestion, or even when leaving home. Personally, I have noticed a surge in such behavior and have personally experienced it as well. An example is when I nearly collided with another vehicle because I was distracted by texting instead of paying attention to the road while being stuck in heavy traffic.
The text implies that incidents of ‘Road Rage’ are primarily caused by overcrowded roadways, distracted driving, and irresponsible speeding. In the United States, there has been an increase in population density, leading to a higher number of drivers on the roads. As a result, this has placed considerable strain on deteriorating highway infrastructures in various regions.
As a result of their outdated design, these roadways are incapable of accommodating the current population and density. Consequently, traffic congestion and significant delays arise as direct outcomes. The increased traffic and encountered delays frequently lead to an irrational response known as ‘Road Rage’. If one driver fails to meet another’s speed expectations or cuts them off, it can rapidly escalate into a hazardous situation for all parties on the road. Deliberate retaliatory actions regularly occur in cases of ‘Road Rage’ associated with congestion.
In congested traffic, drivers frequently interpret the car in front as deliberately driving too slowly. This perception can lead them to respond by accelerating, following too closely, and endangering the safety of the leading driver. These reactions can escalate the situation and potentially lead to a fatal collision. Driving in dense traffic is already hazardous, but it becomes even more treacherous when drivers are not focused on the road. Regrettably, an escalating number of drivers engage in distractions while operating their vehicles.
There are three primary forms of distraction: Visual—when your eyes are off the road; Manual—when your hands are off the wheel; and Cognitive—when your mind is not focused on what you’re doing. Distracted driving activities encompass using cell phone applications, texting, and eating. For instance, I derive pleasure from utilizing the ‘Google Maps’ feature on my iPhone while traveling, but it often prevents me from being attentive to my surroundings. There was even an occasion when I ran a red light because I was so fixated on my ‘Google Maps’ app while attempting to navigate home from a friend’s place.
Engaging in activities like eating, applying make-up, or reading while driving compromises our ability to control the vehicle and puts both the driver and others on the road at risk. However, texting while driving is particularly dangerous as it combines distractions with the mental concentration required for communication, making it more perilous than other forms of distracted driving. It’s important to acknowledge that both distracted driving and congested roads can contribute to ‘Road Rage’, and making irrational speed choices in such situations can be extremely hazardous.
Currently, drivers appear to possess the notion that they possess the liberty to drive at any velocity without regards for fellow drivers, laws, or potential consequences. They appear to deem it acceptable to surpass the speed limit by 10 to 15 miles per hour and develop frustration and hostility towards those driving slower. It is not unusual for me to come across individuals swiftly passing me at exceptionally hazardous speeds and abruptly maneuvering in front of my vehicle due to their perception that I was driving too slowly.
Those kinds of unintelligent reactions contribute significantly to the occurrence of ‘Road Rage,’ but the impacts of this phenomenon extend beyond my personal encounters. I have heard cases where drivers relentlessly pursue and torment others, and in some extreme situations, even kill them. The resulting situations are grave, highlighting the urgent need for addressing our society’s distinct issues. Alternatively, perhaps we should all consider investing in self-driving cars, allowing us to dedicate more time to relaxation!
