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Cape Town - Road rage is not uncommon in South Africa.
Each day motorists have to contend with the unruly behaviour of certain road users who at times turn to violence to resolve disputes on our roads.
A video compiles a series of bizarre road rage altercations in SA and reveals shocking behaviour.
How to avoid aggressive driving
Arrive Alive lists some simple courteous driving practices:
• When you merge, make sure you have plenty of room. Always use your turn signal to show your intentions before making a move. If someone cuts you off, slow down and give them room to merge into your lane.
• If you are in the right lane and someone wants to pass, move over and let them by. You may be "in the left" because you are traveling at the speed limit - but you may also be putting yourself in danger by making drivers behind you angry.
• Allow at least a two-second space between your car and the car ahead. Drivers may get angry when they are followed too closely. If you feel you are being followed too closely, signal and pull over when safe to do so, allowing the other driver to pass.
WATCH: Road rage in SA - Bloem driver shows manic side
• Use your horn to ONLY warn of danger and never as a means to provoke response.
• Give angry drivers lots of room. If another driver tries to pick a fight, put as much distance between you as possible. And, remember "it takes two to tango". One angry driver can't start a fight unless another driver is willing to join in. For more safe driving tips, visit Arrive Alive.
Watch the video:
Tips for dealing with road rage in SA
If you’ve ever cursed at another driver, hooted excessively, tailgated a slow driver or tapped your brakes in front of a speedy follower, you have also exhibited some mild road rage-related behaviour.
Isabel Clarke, a clinical psychologist who specialises in anger management, offers the following advice for dealing with anger:
1 Recognise your anger signs - If you notice signs that you're breathing quicker or that your heart is beating faster, get out of the situation if you have a history of losing control.
2 Count to ten - Counting to ten helps you to cool down, think more clearly and overcome the impulse to lash out.
3 Breathe slowly - You automatically breathe in more than out when you’re feeling angry. The trick is to breathe out more than in in order to calm down and think clearly.
WATCH: 'You assaulted me!' Angry driver 'stabs' BMW in bizarre Gauteng road rage
4 Exercise – It helps to get rid of anger and irritation.
5 Look after yourself - Make time to relax regularly, and ensure that you get enough sleep. Drugs and alcohol can make anger problems worse.
6 Get creative - Writing, making music, dancing, painting and other creative outlets can release tension and help reduce feelings of anger.
7 Talk about how you feel - Discussing your feelings with a friend can be useful, and can help you get a different perspective on the situation.
8 Look at the way you think - Thoughts such as “It’s not fair,” or “People like that shouldn’t be on the roads” can make anger worse because it keeps you focused on whatever it is that’s making you angry. Let these thoughts go and it will be easier to calm down.
