Drivers are being urged to use a simple NHS-recommended breathing technique when stuck in traffic. New research from Saga Car Insurance reveals millions admit to losing their temper behind the wheel.
The NHS has simple advice which will help stressed motorists to avoid reacting and potentially making a costly mistake - and it is all down to the way you breathe. The technique, which is designed to help reduce feelings of stress, anxiety and panic before frustration escalates, comes as the study of 1,000 UK adults found almost half (46%) have sworn at other road users, while 30% admitted making inappropriate gestures and more than one in five (21%) have flashed their headlights in frustration.
Meanwhile, 19% admitted to aggressively sounding their horn, while the same number confessed to speeding because of frustration behind the wheel. More serious behaviours were also reported. Almost one in 10 - 9% - admitted tailgating another vehicle, 8% confessing to brake-checking and 6% saying they have run a red light. Many of these actions can lead to motoring offences carrying fines of up to £1,000.
Swearing and shouting abuse at other road users could result in public order offences, while speeding and running a red light can also carry fines of up to £1,000. Meanwhile, behaviours such as tailgating, brake-checking, aggressive use of headlights and excessive horn use could potentially be treated as careless or inconsiderate driving, which can attract unlimited fines in serious cases.
How to stay calm in traffic
Lisa Murphy, a registered therapist specialising in anger, anxiety and stress management, recommends motorists prepare before they travel and practise relaxation techniques regularly. She told Saga Car Insurance: "Road rage is a stress-related state that drivers can suffer, in which they become extremely angry and lose the ability to regulate their emotions.
"It’s far more than simply getting a bit annoyed – most of us experience brief moments of frustration and annoyance at times while driving – but the big problem with road rage is that it can cause the driver to lose control and behave erratically."
The expert shared the best way to avoid getting angry saying: "The simplest way you can help yourself is to leave plenty of extra time to get to your destination and to ensure your basic needs (sleep, food, water, toilet requirements) are taken care of before you set off.
"In the short term, learning some basic relaxing breathing techniques or other physical relaxation methods can be useful. Remember: prevention is better than cure - so practice these on a daily basis. Don’t just pull them out when you’re already too far gone and the ‘red mist’ is rising."
The NHS recommends the following breathing technique for stress, anxiety and panic:
- Breathe in gently through your nose
- Breathe out through your mouth
- Count steadily from one to five as you breathe in
- Count steadily from one to five as you breathe out
- Continue for at least five minutes
Ali Ingram-Seal, motoring expert at Saga Car Insurance, shares tips for drivers struggling with frustration behind the wheel: “If something annoys you, take a moment to breathe and think before responding. If you react straight away, you may do something you regret later. Everyone makes mistakes on the road. Ask yourself if it’s worth getting upset. Most of the time, it’s not, so just let it go.”
Ali also advises motorists to avoid driving when tired, minimise distractions, allow extra time for journeys and check traffic conditions before setting off to reduce stress behind the wheel.