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Resisting Road Rage as a Professional Truck Driver

Road rage. we’ve all experienced it at some point in our lives…  

As a truck driver, you’re at a greater risk of dealing with or giving in to road rage solely based on the fact that you spend the majority of your time on the road. As a professional, though, you will need to keep your emotions in check when it comes to the negative situations that often occur.

Because of the greater likelihood of things happening that contribute to this common form of aggression, it’s important that you know some of the coping mechanisms that can help you avoid negative situations involving road rage.

Tips for Managing Anger and Frustration:

Leave Early for Your Trips

Slow drivers can be frustrating. You should leave early in order to account for them, traffic, construction, and other common hold-ups. Giving yourself extra time will take away the stress you feel when you’re running unexpectedly late (which can often lead to anger). You should always plan for a trip to take more time than anticipated.

Breathe

Remember that a lot of anger arises from the assumption that the driver who caused the problem did so purposefully. Don’t create this anger yourself, without reason. Rather, choose to believe that this driver made an honest mistake or is having a bad day. If their bad driving or provoking persists…

Distance Yourself

There’s no need to continue driving near someone who is causing issues on the road. This is reckless and dangerous behavior that you should do your best to get away from. If you can’t distance yourself from it and you find the driver’s behavior to be threatening, find a police station or public area to stop in.

Listen To Music You Enjoy

Music has a strong influence on one’s mood and thus their behavior. If you’re upset, try listening to something that will lift your spirits and help you forget about the bad driver(s) on the road.

Practice Safe Driving Yourself

Remember, no one is immune to the occasional driving faux pas. Do your best to practice safe driving. Follow suggested speed limits, use your turn signal, avoid cutting people off, and don’t drive too close to other vehicles. This is all obvious, but a friendly reminder never hurt anyone.

As a professional driver, you should realize that you’re most likely more experienced at driving than most other people on the road. The education drivers receive varies from state to state, and in one trip you will be crossing through many, thus experiencing the driving patterns of many people, all with differing levels of driver education.

When you’re on the road, it’s vital that you keep your emotions in check in order to best perform your job. Drive patiently and drive safely.