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Road Rage Research Paper

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Road Rage Road rage is becoming a more popular behavior each day. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration defines road rage as when a driver "commits moving traffic offenses so as to endanger other persons or property; an assault with a motor vehicle or other dangerous weapon by the operator or passenger of one motor vehicle on the operator or passengers of another motor vehicle". (Motorists) The AAA Foundation defines road rage as “violent anger caused by the stress and frustration involved in driving a motor vehicle – a motorist’s uncontrolled anger that is usually provoked by another motorist’s irritating act is expressed in aggressive or violent behaviors with an intention to cause physical harm.” The two definitions …show more content…

(Distraction) ADD or ADHD is a common disorder having the inability to pay attention. It is likely to be caused by a relative who was diagnosed, therefore having hereditary appearances. (Martin) Having a very little attention span can cause problems while in traffic. The statistics show 66% of traffic fatalities are caused by aggressive driving. The most likely group to exhibit aggressive driving are males under the age of nineteen. Out of the male side of the survey, 14.7% are distracted by eating or drinking something. 10.9% are from checking out other drivers. Only 9.5% are from conversations with a passenger. The women’s group had different distractions. The top distraction of 26.3% were kids. 16.6% was caused by putting on makeup. Combining both groups the biggest distraction was due to texting on the phone. Tailgating was the second most popular distraction with 60%. Multitasking was deemed to be a distraction by 54% of drivers. The lowest distraction was navigational issues with 9.5%. (Distracted Drivers) Stress is another factor believed to cause road rage. …show more content…

It is a term that is based upon the actions and thoughts of others that are clearly expressed. It is good to express your opinion, though sometimes it isn’t very convenient in certain circumstances. Road rage could be caused by multiple factors. I believe it has to do with something siding more with psychological terms. Your temper is a psychologic factor and has a great deal in these situations. Patience is also a factor that should be just as equal. However temper and patience test each other in these outbursts of emotion. This could be caused by distractions, stress, or even an illness. You should always be aware of your surroundings and use your words, gestures, and actions cautiously when approaching someone else. A car isn’t invincible so don’t think it will protect you through everything. They may be having a bad day, or they could be understanding. If we could come together and help each other with these “distractions”, maybe just a simple nod of the head, or a wave to let you by. It would most definitely ease the tensions between the drivers that are sharing a road or parking lot. So next time you want to tailgate someone, think about it. Think about the consequences that you will face. It could be violent, it could injure someone else. It all comes down to your actions and the way you think the situation through. It is after all a psychological

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