Road Rage Is So Last Year

I have always loved driving! As the fifth kid in my family, I watched all four of my older siblings learn to drive and eagerly waited until it would finally be my turn. I received my permit promptly after my fifteenth birthday and took every opportunity to be out on the road practicing. The day I passed my driver’s exam I felt like the world was in my hands. I could go anywhere I wanted without needing to drag my parents along with me, so naturally I went on a few fun drives just to enjoy that freedom.

Years later, driving is no longer just about enjoying the ride for me. As well as being a necessary form of transportation, it has also become a way to calm down when I’m feeling angry. Whether I’m frustrated with a family member, a bad test score, or just the world in general, blasting angry music while I drive to the lake has become my go-to way to blow off steam. However, this habit often leads to me cranking up the volume or getting so caught up in my emotions that I lose focus on the road ahead. I’ve come to realize that being distracted while driving is not only risky for me but also puts others in danger. Because of this, I’ve started exploring safer ways to handle my frustrations. Now, I often choose to put in earbuds and take an angry walk around the park. Sometimes, I jog over to the local rec center and channel all my energy into lifting weights, which not only helps me release tension but also supports my goal of staying active.

Moving forward, I’ve decided to establish a routine before getting behind the wheel. These steps
prioritize assessing my emotional state and ensuring I’m fully focused on driving safely:

Step 1. Ask myself, “If I drive right now, can I be 100% focused on staying safe?”

Step 2. No matter the reason, if the answer is no, I will not pick up the keys and instead I will find a ride, walk, or bike to my destination.

Step 3. De-stress by going on a walk, attending the gym, or taking a nap.

Step 4. Enjoy a stress-free drive focusing on keeping myself and others on the road safe!

Putting myself out on the road when I’m angry is unfair to everyone around me. The consequences of what could happen are too dire to give me any excuse not to follow through with my protective measures. Therefore, I’ve decided it’s best to prioritize safety over driving when I’m upset. It’s not just about me—it’s also about keeping others safe on the road. Looking back, I’ve learned how important it is to control my emotions and make smart choices when I drive.

Additionally, there have been times when I have been uncomfortable in the passenger seat. Whether the driver was texting, distracted, or angry, I have too often found myself wishing I was in control of the car instead of the driver. Just a few weeks ago, my friends and I were driving up a canyon road when we realized we had missed our turn. The driver attempted to make a U-turn but ended up accidentally driving into the side of the mountain. Luckily, no one was hurt, and no other cars were around. We were able to push the car into a safe area and call for help. In situations like these, I am learning to implement safe ways to calm the driver down, or suggest a different turn. I could have noticed that her body language was communicating that she was nervous about the turn and suggested a safer spot to turn around, or even for us to safely pull over, and switch drivers. If my friends are driving when they are angry or extremely stressed, I can offer to take over driving for the day, or until they calm down. Setting the example to not drive angry is a wonderful way to start making a change, but encouraging others to do the same will spark further change in behavior, creating a safer environment one calm driver at a time.

Thankfully, Utah has taken big steps to reduce the number of deaths related to driving. With regards to anger on the road, the Utah State Legislature implemented a new law against road rage driving. This law will take away drivers’ vehicles and require them to pay high fees if convicted of road rage. With these new restrictions in place, as well as kind encouragement from peers to calm down before taking the wheel, the number of angry drivers will fall, and safe, alert drivers will take the road.

Reflecting on my journey with driving, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of staying focused and calm behind the wheel, making decisions that benefit both myself and the community around me. As I continue to grow and learn, I am determined to maintain this mindset, fostering a safer environment for all who share the road with me. By making sure I stay alert and calm while driving, as well as encouraging others to do the same, I will commit to being a better, safer driver.