SHERIFF CARMINE MARCENO’S JANUARY SAFETY & SECURITY TIP: THERE IS NO “KING OF THE ROAD” TROPHY

Ever find yourself involved in a road rage incident?

Many of us know the feeling of being in an uncomfortable or even unsafe situation on our roads. As more people move to Southwest Florida, the more grace and patience we need to have when we get behind the wheel.

One definition of road rage describes it as violent anger caused by stress and frustration involved in driving a motor vehicle in difficult conditions. Others define it as aggressive or angry behavior exhibited by people driving a vehicle. Behavior includes rude or verbal insults, yelling, physical threats or dangerous driving methods targeting others to intimidate or release frustration.

Sound familiar?

Maybe it’s an obscene hand gesture, flashing headlights, honking, tailgating or worse.

In our crime prevention and driving safety presentations we discuss the importance of de-escalation. When dealing with any angry person, especially one behind the wheel of a deadly weapon, your safety and the safety of others must be your priority.

Try to stay calm, slow down, create distance, and attempt to get far from the aggressive driver. Some experts advise avoiding eye contact and instead focus on defensive driving. Recognize that you can only control your own reactions and behavior, not the behavior of others.

Have a plan before this happens. Talk with the young drivers in your family. If a driver will not leave you alone, starts to follow you or is driving recklessly to intimidate you, call 911.

Do not drive home. It is better to stay out in public. If someone follows you into a parking lot, stay in your vehicle. If someone gets out of their car and comes toward you, honk your horn, and keep honking to deter the person and get the attention of others. If you feel unsafe or threatened, call 911.

Now, what if you are the one experiencing road rage? Some advice – try to calm yourself, allow yourself plenty of drive time, listen to calming music, and practice deep breathing. Pull over, if you need time to regroup. Make sure you are in a good state of mind on the road. Avoid driving while upset or emotional. Make sure you get enough rest and nutrition. Irritability can contribute to impatience with other drivers.

Also remember, if you have children in the car with you, they are taking notes, learning from you. Talk with them about the best way to react when dealing with an uncomfortable situation on the road and the importance of staying calm and being polite.

Remember these 3 C’s of Driving: Care. Caution. Courtesy.

Every day, we find ourselves in all types of situations. We should always feel comfortable and safe. Do not hesitate to call for help…ever. We are here for you.

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office offers more than a dozen free crime prevention programs, discussing best practices for safety and security. To schedule one for your community, business, organization or house of worship, please call (239) 477-1CRU (1278) or email us at CRU@sheriffleefl.org.