2.9 - 2.10 - Distracted Driving & Aggressive Drivers/Road Rage

Question 1

What are some tips to follow so you won’t become a distracted driver?

Answer 1

• Turn off all communication devices.
• If you must use a mobile phone, make sure it is within close proximity that it is operable while you are restrained, use an earpiece or the speaker phone function, use voice-activated dialing, use the hands-free feature. Drivers are not in compliance if they reach for a mobile phone, even if they intend to use the hands-free function.
• Do not type or read a text message on a mobile device while driving.
• Familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s features and equipment, before you get behind the wheel.
• Adjust all vehicle controls and mirrors to your preferences prior to driving.
• Pre-program radio stations and pre-load your favorite CDs.
• Clear the vehicle of any unnecessary objects and secure cargo.
• Review maps, program the GPS and plan your route before you begin driving.
• Don’t attempt to read or write while you drive.
• Avoid smoking, eating and drinking while you drive. Leave early to allow yourself time to stop to eat.
• Don’t engage in complex or emotionally intense conversations with other occupants.
• Secure commitment from other occupants to behave responsibly and to support the driver in reducing distractions.

Question 2

How do you use in-vehicle communications equipment cautiously?

Answer 2

If you must use a mobile phone, make sure it is within close proximity that it is operable while you are restrained, use an earpiece or the speaker phone function, use voice-activated dialing, use the hands-free feature. Drivers are not in compliance if they reach for a mobile phone, even if they intend to use the hands-free function.

Question 3

How do you recognize a distracted driver?

Answer 3

• Vehicles that may drift over the lane divider lines or within their own lane.
• Vehicles traveling at inconsistent speeds.
• Drivers who are preoccupied with maps, food, cigarettes, cell phones, or other objects.
• Drivers who appear to be involved in conversations with their passengers.

Question 4

What is the difference between aggressive driving and road rage?

Answer 4

Aggressive driving is the act of operating a motor vehicle in a selfish, bold, or pushy manner, without regard for the rights or safety of others (i.e. changing lanes frequently and abruptly without notice).

Road rage is operating a motor vehicle with the intent of doing harm to others or physically assaulting a driver or their vehicle.

Question 5

What should you do when confronted with an aggressive driver?

Answer 5

• First, make every attempt to get out of their way.
• Put your pride in the back seat. Do not challenge them by speeding up or attempting to hold-your-own in your travel lane.
• Avoid eye contact.
• Ignore gestures and refuse to react to them.
• Report aggressive drivers to the appropriate authorities by providing a vehicle description, license number, location and, if possible, direction of travel.
• If you have a cell phone, and can do it safely, call the police.
• If an aggressive driver is involved in a crash farther down the road, stop a safe distance from the crash scene, wait for the police to arrive, and report the driving behavior that you witnessed.

Question 6

What are some things you can do to reduce your stress before and while you drive?

Answer 6

• Reduce your stress before and while you drive. Listen to “easy listening” music.
• Give the drive your full attention. Don’t allow yourself to become distracted by talking on your cell phone, eating, etc.
• Be realistic about your travel time. Expect delays because of traffic, construction, or bad weather and make allowances.
• If you’re going to be later than you expected—deal with it. Take a deep breath and accept the delay.
• Give other drivers the benefit of the doubt. Try to imagine why they are driving that way. Whatever their reason, it has nothing to do with you.
• Slow down and keep your following distance reasonable.
• Don’t drive slowly in the left lane of traffic.
• Avoid gestures. Keep your hands on the wheel. Avoid making any gestures that might anger another driver, even seemingly harmless expressions of irritation like shaking your head.
• Be a cautious and courteous driver. If another driver seems eager to get in front of you, say, “Be my guest.” This response will soon become a habit and you won’t be as offended by other drivers’ actions.