Traffic, tailgating, slow drivers and ignorant manoeuvring are just some of the things that can lead to stress behind the wheel writes Suzanne Keane
It may seem safe to scream and shout at other drivers from the confines of your own car but the anger hangs around long after they’ve driven away and that’s only going to stress you out!
- Awareness
Keep your eyes on other drivers. If they seem distracted or disorientated keep a safe distance to avoid any hairy moments. Avoid using your phone when possible (including a hands free kit) and even if you have passengers in the car watch the road, not them.
- Aggression
If someone does something that annoys you take a deep breath, feel free to call them an idiot under your breath and move on!
On the other hand if you feel someone is driving aggressively behind you, pull over when it’s safe and let them become someone else’s problem. It’s very tempting to take on drivers like this but the safest thing to do is to let them get on their way so they become a distant memory of your journey! (However if they become threatening and won’t drive away from you go to a public place or Garda station straight away).
- Calm
If you’re tense or stressed before you get into your car it’s not going to improve – especially if you have a busy commute. Take a few minutes to relax before you set off, listen to some music and take a few deep breaths.
- Do as I say not as I do
The best way to avoid stress on the road is to drive in a safe and courteous manner yourself! As tempting as it may be to bully that slow driver into the hard shoulder or shout at the cyclist that just pulled out in front of you without warning don’t – and remember it’s not the end of the world if you’re not the first off the line at traffic lights!
Suzanne Keane
3rd August, 2021
