EMOTION AT THE WHEEL

Press, Volume CXI, Issue 32588, 23 April 1971, Page 7

EMOTION AT THE WHEEL

Emotional drivers are more dangerous than problem drinkers, and safe drivers are usually people happy with their jobs and family lives, report United States safety experts.

American researchers say road-death figures show that the emotional driver is about 10 times more dangerous than the problem drinker. The American Automobile Association has repeatedly said the most dangerous driver is the man who cannot control his emotions to a reasonable degree and millions of accidents are said to be caused by emotional instability, hostility, frustration, and aggression. One of the United States’ biggest bus companies is so conscious of the problem that it tests all prospective drivers to be sure they are free of any neurotic resentment, fears, or worries which would prevent them from taking normal highway irritations in their stride.

Some authorities say that up to 80 per cent of all driving accidents are caused by emotional upsets. European experts have said that the best way for a wife to make sure her husband reaches his destination safely is to give him an affectionate kiss before he

leaves home: domestic squabbles are behind a large percentage of accidents, they say. The nervous driver is unable to remain calm under the stress of an emergency, and lacks presence of mind when it is required. He loses his temper easily, and with it loses his judgment. When angry, he expresses his feelings by driving recklessly. An American expert says there are five main rules for keeping nerves steady while driving. They are: Try to discover the emotionally upset driver. He will weave and jump red lights, pass you too closely, and will not let you pass. Let him do what he wants, and keep away from him. MORE U.S. RULES

From January 1 next year all new cars sold in the United States will have to have both visual and audible warnings to inform the occupants that the front seat-belts are not fastened. The American regulations say the warnings must not be capable of being “cancelled or defeated” by the user—unless he fastens his belt Details of what the front passenger belt-warn-ing is supposed to do when only the driver is using the car have not been given.

You may be “right” according to traffic rules, but he is the dangerous man avoid him. Do not try to teach the emotional driver “a lesson.” He is the problem driver, not you. If at some time you have several accidents or nearmisses, check your driving habits. You may find them faulty, and replace them with safer and healthier methods and attitudes.

If you are angry or emotionally upset or overjoyed, do not drive immediately. Take a walk of 15 minutes, drink a glass of milk to calm you down. When you feel that your emotional upset has calmed down, then use thb starter. “Compensate” when you feel tired or upset, by slowing down. Be doubly cautious at intersections, and keep more space between your car and the vehicle in front of you.