Traffic in large metropolitan areas is growing fast. The traffic volume is outgrowing the roads faster than expected and traffic jams are pre-programmed. Large volumes of traffic on a non-sufficient infrastructure are some of the biggest challenges drivers are facing. Driving turns into a tedious task and is no fun anymore. Stop and Go traffic; traffic jams; accidents; noise; the feeling of being stuck - all these things drive up the stress level for drivers. The result can be experienced on our streets every day: Road Rage

How is road rage being defined? "Violent behavior exhibited by drivers in traffic, often as a manifestation of stress"

Pretty much every driver has experienced road rage at one point in his life. Being cutoff by a rude driver, getting the "Finger" shown, or being tailgated by a fellow driver are just the minor signs of road rage. More severe signs of road rage involve shootings, being followed and harassed by another driver or even pushed of the road. Road rage can result in injury and even death. The least thing that usually happens is that the driver being the victim becomes outraged and nervous and eventually starts to fight back which usually results in a much more severe situation with a complete different outcome.

How to deal with road rage and how to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of road rage? Drivers can do quite a few things to avoid road rage or to reduce the risk of becoming involved in such an incidence. Drive with the traffic flow when being on the left lane on a highway or pull-over to the right lane if you do not want to go that fast. Let the folks who are in a hurry pass - you'll see most of them again anyway as overall traffic flow in most cases does keep groups of cars within a 3-5 mile radius. Being tailgated? Again - pull over to the other lane and let other one pass. If you cut somebody off by accident forcing the other driver to hit the brakes hard or to pull away from you to avoid an accident - show signs of apologies. We all make mistakes while driving - but be fair enough to admit a mistake by apologizing. This will take out some of the stress factor in those situations. Use turn lights whenever make a lane change or turn. If the car behind you has to hit the brakes hard to avoid an accident because you made turn without using the turn lights can even result in an accident. Get a bigger car that is not as sporty as what you might have now. Bigger cars often avoid giving the driver the feeling that there is a need for speed. Cruising is more relaxing and a heavy vehicle just does not motivate as much to speed.

These are just a few suggestions of how to reduce the risk of road rage. Do not drive too defensive and slow. Going too slow and blocking the traffic flow is a bad thing to do. Try to imagine how you would feel driving behind yourself. Avoid doing things that you do not want others do to you, too.