While driving, we rely on a set of assumptions. We assume that other drivers will act responsibly as they drive. We assume other drivers will follow the laws regarding passing, changing lanes, yielding the right of way, etc. However, even under normal driving conditions, other drivers may fail to live up to our expectations. Other motorists may not signal, may perform an improper lane change, drive recklessly, run a red light, drive too slowly, may not yield, might cut you off, or do a number of other things. When these things happen a natural response is to become angry with the other driver. This anger can range anywhere from being slightly annoyed to becoming consumed with uncontrollable rage. The problem with this "road rage" is that you will likely not make the proper choices while driving because you are emotionally upset.

When road rage sets in your perception of the world changes. Everyone on the road is trying to irritate and inconvenience you. The only thing to do is to beat them at their own game. Angry drivers make poor decisions, take needless risks, and make last-minute choices that could potentially put others on the roadway in danger. Try to avoid driving in situations that are likely to make you angry. When another driver does something that upsets you, try to remain calm. Think to yourself, "I am not a perfect driver either. I am sure that I have made someone else feel upset before too." Be forgiving of the other motorist's apparent shortcomings. Focus on driving safely in order to reduce your own risk - not on getting even with the offending driver.

Emotions really do affect the way people drive. Stress changes the body in many ways. Mentally, strong emotions can impair judgment, and interfere with your ability to make wise and rational decisions. Strong emotions can cause you to dwell on a certain event and distract you from important events going on around you. Physically your body changes itself as well. You heartbeat quickens, adrenaline is released into the bloodstream, breathing quickens, digestion slows, your muscles tighten. Stress is what keeps us alive, but too much in too short of time can seriously affect how well you drive.

Your emotions are complicated and powerful forces. Mastering them is something that most individuals have to work at their whole life. However, maintaining an attitude of, "I can control my emotions - especially while driving." is a big step in the right direction. When you can control your emotions on the roadway you will notice a difference. Traffic won't be such an inconvenience. "Bad" drivers won't upset you so much. Driving will be much more enjoyable. Don't let the other motorists control you. Take charge of your emotions and do your part to make the HTS (Highway Transportation System) a safer place for everyone on it.Spencer Brown