The more time you spend behind the wheel, the more you begin to understand that statement. Many drivers are simply unaware of what is happening around them.

A good example is how people react to emergency vehicles. Lights and sirens are obvious, yet many drivers fail to notice them until the last second, and then panic as they try to figure out what to do. They continue on their merry way, blocking the path of the emergency vehicle, until all of a sudden, “Oh my God! Where’d that come from!”

The best approach is to expect that other drivers will make mistakes. When you do, their actions become less frustrating and more predictable.

Road rage refers to any display of aggression by a driver. Most drivers have experienced it at some point. In many cases, it is caused by a misunderstanding. One driver may make a mistake, but the other perceives it as intentional.

We all make mistakes. Do not assume that another driver is trying to cause a problem. Responding with aggression only makes the situation worse.

Take a lesson from animal behavior. The most dominant and secure individual is usually the one that does not engage in unnecessary conflict. The same applies on the road.

Confrontations on the road are not uncommon and are usually defused as the vehicles move away from each other. Some drivers like to assert dominance by “teaching a lesson” or chasing the other vehicle. Some of the worst cases of road rage have occurred where the opportunity for the vehicles to separate and go their own way did not present itself. The best advice is to keep your cool.