Resist the Urge for Retaliation When Cut Off

It’s easy to feel as if revenge is justified when you’re driving and have been cutoff or otherwise disrespected by another driver. Whether that’s simply honking the horn or showing your displeasure in a more obscene way, this reaction is never a good idea. You’re not going to accomplish anything other then potentially making the situation worse and when you’re focused on retaliation, you’re focus is being taken away from the most important task at hand, which is maintaining your own defensive driving.

Of course, staying calm is this situation can be easier said than done. One of the most important defensive driving techniques you should always remember is that most drivers probably aren’t using those same techniques. In fact, that’s the basic philosophy behind the defensive driving approach, otherwise it’d be called offensive driving. By assuming that other drivers aren’t going to be as considerate as you, you can worry more about your own personal safety in spite of them.

If you’ve experienced an incident with another driver, the first thing you should do is remain calm. You should then create space between you and the vehicle so that you’re not putting yourself in harm’s way. As long as you’re not within eyesight of the offending driver, you can vent your frustration in the privacy and safety of your car. If you find yourself extremely upset or unsettled, then pull over or take the next exit and give yourself time to calm down so that your focus can remain on staying safe.