How do you keep your cool while driving?

You may have experienced this: You’re driving on EDSA and suddenly, a bus cuts your path. What do you do? You step on the brake and let the bus pass? Or do you floor the gas pedal and claim your right of way?

Well, most people would say they’d do the former. But saying is one thing, doing it is another. Most drivers caught in such a situation, often find themselves doing the latter as they get consumed by that monster we call road rage.

Road rage is one of the growing problems in the country and a major cause of vehicular accidents through the years. This happens when a driver is angered by a provocation from another motorist. The rage may end quickly with a "Pu–-ina-mo!" or linger on and result in injury or even death.

How do you avoid road rage?

It takes a lot of effort. With helpful driving techniques, you can prevent being the target of someone else’s frenzy or better yet forestall any chance of experiencing road rage yourself! Here are pointers from Isuzu Philippines Corp., which promotes responsible driving, has issued the following advice:

• Plan your trip. Plot your route and give yourself plenty of time to get where you’re going. By allowing sufficient time to get to your destination, small delays won’t seem like major incidents.

• Signal your intentions. Make sure you use your signal light switch if you want to turn or change lanes. This way, you give those around you a clue as to where you are going or what are you about to do.

• Do not tailgate other drivers. Allow one car length for every 20 kph of speed. Driving dangerously close behind is a surefire jeopardy. Most rear-end accidents are caused in part by people driving too close to the car ahead of them.

• Stay out of the way. Give aggressive drivers plenty of room to get ahead of you.

• Put your pride in the back seat. Do not challenge tailgaters or overtakers by speeding up or slowing down.

• Don’t let bad mood do the driving. Reason with yourself. Anger is unhealthy. Remember, anger released is anger increased. Anger transformed is anger dissolved.

• Watch your headlights. Be wary in using the headlamps. Either oncoming or from behind, make sure you are not blinding someone with your bright lights.

• Use your horn sparingly.

• Avoid eye contact. Do not look aggressive drivers in the eye. Shun from using obscene gestures that can get you into some trouble. Instead, when confronted with foul gestures, ignore and refuse to return them.

Anyone who spends time on the road has and will continue to experience various sorts of road rage. As caution and evasion go a long way in promoting safety and passenger well being, one should know that it’s all a matter of having the right attitude. Keep your cool. Start making smart choices and enjoy safer, hassle-free rides.