Road Safety Week which runs from the 19th to 25th November, provides an opportunity for communities and organisations to engage initiatives and reflect on ways we can all help to make our roads safer.

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, road rage has become an all-too-familiar companion on UK roads. According to a recent Forbes Advisor study, a staggering 53% of drivers in the UK confess to experiencing road rage. This Road Safety Week we delve into the roots of road rage, its potential causes, and explore effective strategies to prevent it.

Understanding the triggers of road rage.

Road rage manifests in various aggressive behaviours, often triggered by inconveniences encountered while driving. From yelling and honking to tailgating and intentional ramming, these behaviours can escalate, leading to violent incidents and, in extreme cases, fatal accidents. Department for Transport data revealed that aggressive driving caused 93 fatalities and 2,721 accidents on Britain’s roads in 2020.

What are the common causes of road rage?

There are several factors that can contribute to the prevalence of road rage. Heavy traffic, anonymity behind the wheel, distracted driving, and impatience are among the most common culprits. Stalled traffic breeds frustration, anonymity emboldens reckless behaviour, distracted driving induces fear and anger, while impatience often results in erratic driving.

Preventative strategies that can help avoid road rage.

While it’s impossible to control the actions of others, you can control your own responses. To prevent road rage, adherence to traffic rules, maintaining a safe following distance, using indicators, and practicing courtesy on the road are crucial. You can also:

• Leave on time – Plan your journeys with ample time to account for potential delays, roadworks, or accidents, reducing the likelihood of feeling rushed and resorting to unsafe driving.
• Cool down first – If emotions are running high, take a moment to cool down before starting your journey. Whether it’s the aftermath of an argument or a stressful situation, driving with a clear head promotes safer behaviour and helps avoid accidents.
• Have empathy – Always remember, don’t take the actions of other drivers personally. Practising empathy and patience on the road can go a long way in reducing tension and preventing confrontations.

Road rage is a pervasive issue that poses risks to everyone on the road but by adopting a calm and collected approach, coupled with adherence to safe driving practices, individuals can significantly decrease the likelihood of accidents and contribute to a safer driving environment.

For more information regarding vehicle-related safety, vehicle fleet insurance or young drivers insurance please contact our experienced team at Sutcliffe & Co Insurance Brokers on 01905 21681 or alternative email Enquiries@sutcliffeinsurance.co.uk.