Driving with a more focused mind can help ensure more safety on the streets. In order to be more focused, drivers must first recognize what their mental health will be like before, and while on, the road. To do so, drivers must take a moment to remove any unnecessary distractions and to remember to keep a level head. Because none of us are perfect drivers, we must take a moment to remember that we too can commit an offense, like speeding, not signaling or not yielding to pedestrians. Driving, in its most original form, is not a very complicated task for those adults who are most responsible enough to follow the driving laws that protect you, fellow drivers and pedestrians. Educate yourself to better understand where you can improve your driving skills should you be the one breaking any laws thus upsetting everyone else. Take care of your vehicle, be punctual, and keep control of your moods on the road. Car accidents are often caused because a driver was not paying attention on the road (distracted), they were intoxicated, or they were speeding. If they were distracted, one could ask what they thinking about and did affect their mental health while driving? If they were intoxicated, were they high or drunk because they were dulling the pain of bigger issues affecting their mental health? If they were speeding, were they angrily distracted, intoxicated or both?
Often times we tend to reflect on various emotions when we drive. If you are having a good day and are feeling positive, it is most likely that you will find yourself a more courteous driver on the road. If your day was bad and all you feel is agitation you will most likely find yourself driving with more aggression, which tends to be converted into what many of us know as road rage. According to DMV.org, road rage is defined as aggressive or violent behavior stemming from a driver's uncontrolled anger at the actions of another motorist. Some examples of road rage would include hitting their vehicle with your car, running the other driver off the road, pulling over, getting out and engaging in physical confrontation, using a weapon against them, etc. These types of encounters can often end with fatal results, which many would agree should never reach such a point. By checking our mindsets before hitting the road, we could be helping to avoid such encounters altogether.
Other types of emotions, such as depression, stress and anger can also make drivers more likely to have accidents. In some cases, there have been accidents caused by suicidal drivers with depressed and angered mindsets. If you are a driver who ever feels such emotions, please, avoid driving. Driving while feeling suicidal puts your life and the lives of others at risk. Rather, ask someone to give you a ride, take public transportation, or find a ride share service to the closest medical facility for immediate attention. Do not be afraid to seek help. Most importantly remember that not all hope is lost. If you know someone who displays signs of suicide while on the road, seek help immediately.
Driving should always be safe and fun. Driving a car is not just a milestone in one's life, but it can also mean opportunity and upwards mobility for many. A car is freedom and accessibility. So, the next time you are on the road, remember that that pedestrian or fellow driver is someone with a life, a story. Be more patient. Know your laws. Most importantly, remember to find a place in your mind where you can be more courteous on the road. Happy and safe driving!
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