Let's face it... 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 highways 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 60 mph is 200 percent greater than at 40 mph, 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.
• Anticipate situations and make plans accordingly. Regular traffic reports in most cities alert you to the traffic congestion. Learn alternate routes or leave for work earlier.
• Take action before stress and fatigue get to you. Learn to spot warning signs and act on them.
• If you plan a long journey, take it in stages. Do not remain behind the wheel for more than three hours without a break.

Be Patient & Pay Attention

• Don't yell or use obscene gestures.
• 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, which can be seen as confrontational.
• If confronted by an aggressive driver, go to the nearest police station if you continue to be hassled or think you are being followed.
• Lock your doors.
• When stopped in traffic, leave enough space to pull out from behind the car you are following.
• Don't be tempted to start a fight or carry any sort of weapon. These acts may provoke an assault.

For more information on road rage, contact the Network of Employers for Traffic Safety (NETS) at 202/452-6005.