Sheriff`s Corner

Hi and welcome to this week's Sheriff's Corner. I'd like to talk about road rage this week. This is because I've actually seen several incidents this past week that made me do a little research.

I learned that road rage is most likely to occur on a Friday afternoon. It is during the afternoon peak traffic hours that drivers are most apt to be bothered ? and rushed. Road rage incidents occur most frequently during the summer months. Road rage happens most frequently in moderately congested traffic, perhaps because heavily congested traffic conditions lower driver's expectations. Often the moderately congested areas only slow the aggressive drivers progress this frustrating the driver.

So here are some tips. Be alert. Try to avoid cutting other drivers off in traffic. Don't tailgate. Drop back and let ? go. Signal several hundred feet before you change lanes or make a turn. Avoid making any gestures or eye contact with another driver. Some are looking for confrontation. Obey speed limits and allow enough time for your trip. Please stop at stop signs and red lights and don't' run yellow lights. Size up intersections and don't block traffic in an intersection. Try to not take other drivers actions personally. Put yourself in their shoes.

If however you have an "on the road" encounter and you observe that they are following you afterward, drive to a public place or to the nearest law enforcement station or agency. Report any aggressive driving incidents to law enforcement immediately.

The idea is to drive to and arrive at your destination safely and happily. Road aggression is stressful for all. Take care and please be safe.