Here in Florida people tail-gate ALL the time. I could be doing 70 in a 55 mph zone and there's some nasca wanna-be on my ass. They're a little backward here *(some) but it drives me nuts! George (0llll0)

Are you in the left lane? If you are in the left lane then you should move out of his way... sorry to keep hammering the same point...

Exactly. People think that because the speed limit is 55 and they are doing 70, they can drive in the passing lane without ever changing out. That is the kind of behavior that *causes* a lot of passing on the right (dangerous), tailgating (dangerous), and other aggressive driving (dangerous) or even road rage (dangerous).

It takes two to tango. First of all, I don't tailgate. I have never, ever, ever seen anyone tailgate anyone who is not in the passing lane -- no one tailgates people in the right lane. The only people I have seen get tailgated are those who hog the left lane. Frankly, my reaction when I see that is, "that person deserves it."

Hogging the passing lane is, in my opinion, the single most dangerous, provocative, irresponsible, selfish, and traffic-clogging behavior on the roads today. Because of left-lane hoggers, I find myself passing on the right about 50% of the time. If the various state police departments really want to get rid of "aggressive driving" and "road rage", they have to end the hogging of the passing lanes.

If I were in the "left lane" I'd be on the wrong side of the street" i.e. into on comming traffic. I was referring to state roads and county road with only one lane in each direction. I guess you don't live in Florida. [ George (OIIIIO) ]

My Take on Posting #1

You tell 'em George!!

Seriously, though, this compilation of many different postings has examples from 3 different conditions studied in the field of psychology. They are: 1) denial 2) delusions of grandeur and 3) rationalization. I don't understand how Jemmie could argue that it is okay to seek justice on your own terms if you encounter a left lane "hogger". Equally disturbing to me is the fact that Jemmie denies that irresponsible behavior (such as tail-gating people who are not in the passing lane) occurs, and how he justifies his dangerous behavior on the basis that others are not doing what they are "supposed" to do.

Posting #2: Road Rage Revenge

Date: 1998/11/22

Driving down a crowded highway in CT, this ASSHOLE from New Jersey decides he is GOING to cut me off. Wrong move for him. I speed up a bit.

So : you willingly entered into a competitive and aggressive display of driving tactics- and sped up ? Proud of yourself ? You are just as much a jerk as he is, only you are a COWARD who misuses the police. Instead of taking responsibility for your actions yourself, you use the cops to help you get your 'revenge'.

Courtesy on the road, or lack of courtesy, cuts BOTH ways.

It seems like an asshole from Connecticut and an asshole from NJ just had a little "run-in" on the public roads. Don't suppose you two ever considered that the actions you took might have had serious consequences involving innocent drivers nearby ? Grow up.

My Take on Posting #2

The main purpose of this posting was to flame the author of a previous posting who apparently suffers from delusions of grandeur. This fits nicely with the recurring practices by commuters (on the roads and on the internet) in correcting misbehaviors with misbehavior. The author of the first posting claims to speed up when another driver tries to cut him off, the author of the second posting (enorvell) calls the first author a "jerk", a "coward", and an "asshole" because he feels that the first author was wrong. He also suggests that the author of the first posting "grow up". It's unlikely that the first author will read this reply and think/alter his actions while driving because of it. It is more probable that the first author will be angered and will fight back. Enorvell wrote this selection under the guise of an altruistic motorist (ie. inclusion of the effects on the "innocent drivers nearby"), but a truly altruistic driver would take into account the way they communicate to others, on the road as well as in newsgroups.

Posting #3: Lack of Rage? How can this be?

Date: 1998/09/05

Leave for wherever earlier, REMEMBER where you are going and THINK if time-saving is even an issue....I've noticed that in my own road rage...I'll start fuming on the way to the store on Saturday morning...I've got ALL frigging day, but I'll be ready to kill.

My theory is that technology and society have created a lifestyle where everyone is rushing to meet an overload of commitments daily-thus they feel rushed....think about how many commercials on TV and Radio refer to "Your Busy/hectic/ schedule..." and so on. We're constantly being programmed to "higher productivity" and increased "efficiency" for the Corporate Pseudo Deity and I'm sick of it. So if I am slowed down, it's because I've made a decision to REBEL! I'm going to SLOW down and Smell the Carbon Dioxide, damn it!!!

Why is there road rage? What causes road rage? How can one just turn a blind eye to road rage? Here in Canada we do not carry guns. I would like to hear from you. Not what we would like to do, but what can we do, legally.

Its almost good to see how little posts there are here lately. I guess it must mean that there is less rage on the road. I for one am relieved. Or maybe it means every RAGER is in the hospital. Whatever, maybe it means that it is safe for me to drive again

My Take on Posting #3

I really liked this entry by "wierd song woman" regarding lack of road rage. She advises the reader to "slow down and smell the carbon dioxide". She uses humor in her entry but makes a good point. If getting somewhere on time is a problem leave earlier, perhaps time-saving is not such an important issue as we might have thought. Peace of mind and safety on the road are more valuable than time saving, despite pressures from society which cause us to believe otherwise.

Posting #4: Speeding and Congestion: A Recipe for Disaster

Date: 1998/11/23

Speeding caused 153,000 accidents that ended with injuries in 1997, a 48% jump from 103,000 in 1988. Other forms of aggressive driving, such as reckless driving, have dropped over the decade, keeping overall numbers stable.

But congestion threatens the balance, experts say. Over the past decade, the number of miles driven has risen 35% while the number of miles of new roads built has increased just 1%, federal figures show.

Traffic engineer Showalter says that unless the twin problems of congestion and speeding are addressed soon, ''We may be creating a recipe for disaster. We've been hearing plenty about aggressive driving and road rage. But the real problem might not have even hit us yet.''

My Take on Posting #4

The writer here is trying to address the fact that the problems of traffic and speeding on the road are a bad combination. Studies show that there is a positive correlation with the growing number of motorists on the road and automobile accidents.

There are so many people on the road these days, especially in the city. With Hawaiiâs growing populations and limited roadways, the problem of congestion will only get worse.

Posting #5: Road Rage Weapons

Date: 1998/12/12

There seems to be a growing debate these days, as to which is the best weapon to use when involved in a roadside road rage altercation. Myself, Iâm from the old school, meaning I prefer to use good old reliable "mr.tire iron". I know a lot of people who like to do battle with your standard "Louisville slugger"30-32oz model, but I find your much better off hacking away with a tire iron. The main reason being, you only need one hand to hack at your foe with a tire iron, rather than two with a baseball bat. I'll admit at one time, I used a baseball bat in my battles with the savages on the road but the results were mediocre at best. In 1997,I fashioned a so-so 7-4 record in vicious road rage brawls.

After switching over to the tire iron in 1998,I went an undefeated 11-0 this year. The reasons for my success were the following:1)Installing a custom handgrip on my tire iron, with a leather strap which you wrap around your wrist.2)Mounting my tire iron on the left side of the passenger seat for quick access in "emergency situations".3)Always wearing steel-toed workboots(they come in handy when you want to finish off your foe with an old fashioned "boot job") I know a lot of people prefer using a baseball bat, but for me my weapon of choice is the tire iron. If used properly, you have a good chance of winning even against the most savage of motorists.

My Take on Posting #5

This guy here needs to take a course on traffic psychology. Rather than deal with the problem at its source, which seems to be his anger, he chooses to solve his issues with violence. This leads to dangerous situations for both himself and especially others. It seems as if he is just looking for altercations. I think he needs to re-evaluate himself and ask why he is getting into all of these road rage battles in the first place. Itâs true that sometimes itâs impossible to avoid a road rage situation with another individual, but you, yourself, can deal with your own issues without resorting to violence.

This attitude that this person possesses needs to be changed. His violent behavior is out of hand and destructive. I wouldnât be surprised if he ended up killing someone or getting killed himself. Itâs a scary thought, knowing there are people like him driving on the road with me. Drivers like these should go through a road rage course and some sort of psychological therapy or anger-management classes.

Posting #6: When Aggression Happens

"People often commit acts of aggression while driving that they would never think of doing when they were not driving," Korman says. "Few of us would imperil another person's life if that person cut into line in front of us at the supermarket, and yet many people, without thinking, will do just that when driving." [ S. Vezina ]

My Take on Posting #6

Is there a correlation between being aggressive while being in a vehicle vs. standing in the outdoors where you are completely exposed? Do we tend to be much more brave and does our tendency to become aggressive increase due to a sense of security in a vehicle? I think so because I am guilty of yelling at some one and giving them a birdy when I got ticked off by another driver. I don't however yell at another customer shopping in a supermarket for bumping into my shopping cart. That's something to think about. Hmm....

Posting #7:Road Peace: An Antidote

Hello all -- I'm new to this group and have been enjoying the earnest discussions about the problems that arise when angry people in cars act out their aggression.

I spend a lot of time on the road commuting, and I began to get really concerned about what is now called "road rage" way back in May of 1996. I got so concerned, in fact, that I was compelled to take action to try to turn the trend around. I created what I called "RoadPeace," a _nonprofit_ (I can't emphasize that strongly enough) movement to promote kindness on the highways. I wrote a RoadPeace Pledge, created a logo, and worked to spread the word to others -- we CAN make a difference by committing to drive nicely on the highways. I got some local media coverage which generated about 200 letters of support from people who were also tired of the meanness and hostility. My idea was that we could put RoadPeace stickers on our windshields, which would tell others we are committed to driving nicely, but, more importantly, which would remind us of our *own* commitment to being road peaceful. Obviously, that's the most important aspect of RoadPeace, because we can only change our own behavior, not anyone else's.

Anyway, if you want to find out more about RoadPeace, you can cruise by my website at [ http:///www.sonic.net/ladyann. ]

I've been hesitant to post here because I was concerned some or all of you would think I'm trying to sell Comment by [http:www.webring.com ]: Your site and idea are excellent are a great idea! If only someone could issues bumper stickers for this idea. I have an idea for it's promotion. I have a web ring and am also a member of a web ring (these are health related). Maybe you can start a web ring. http://www.webring.com you can find info there. ------------------------- "I'm sick and tired of having to rearrange my life because of what the STUPIDEST people *might* do or how they *might* react." [ Bill ]

My Take on Posting #7

To me this lady has realizes and is trying to awknowlege that road rage exists and is trying to be an advocate for road peace. Take a look at her suggestions as to how we can promote kindness on highways. Very optimistic...I don't know if I will make road rage escalate with all those bumper stickers out on the highway. To me it could be much more detrimental. These bumper stickers could be targets for those unwilling to turn think that road rage is an issue? What about those who are out causing road rage becuase they like it?

Posting #8: Off To The Side

Subject: Re: SHOOT & KILL ALL ROAD RAGERS - KILL EM ALL
Date: 1998/07/28

I missed the original post I guess but my job requires I drive almost 60,000 miles per year. I don't speed but I do push the speed limit. It's amazing how many jerks will run side by side with another car at 55 in the left lane with a 70 MPH limit and speed up or slow down to stay beside them. It's unbelievable how many will speed up to close a gap to prevent another car from passing. Most of what I see is a lack of common courtesy. Why do people feel they have the right to block traffic? If someone is going faster than you care to, pull over out of the way and they'll be out of your way in a few moments. Blocking only creates a dangerous situation and lends itself to "road rage".

Can I make a suggestion? Why don't you just grow up and get out of the way? It's idiots like you that cause road rage in the first place. As to police officers, you may not realize it but often they are on a call and required to respond (in marked or unmarked cars) promptly. Only in urgent situations are they supposed to use lights and sirens. As to a name for your web site- try "I spy and other silly childs games".

Hey plastic you pissed?? When he puts it up I'll go and check and see if your photo is on it. Why fear your picture being taken and getting reported by "citizen clean" unless YOU are a potential problem. It's so hard sneaking your assholeyness past those trafficnazi on duty police let alone those pesky doo gooder off duty cops and those damn concerned for thier own safety citizens trying to catch you too?? Ohhh, the horror,they collect evidence for prosecution and put it online**Gasp** What if I can't ever show my ass and endanger other drivers ever again ??Oh whatever will I do.**SOB**sniffle*wipes a tear away!!??

Ohh..... the Inhumanity of it all *snicker*.;-) Well,I suggest don't be an ass on the road ,Road rage is a choice, to choose be an asshole with your car. Don't choose it. If I had my way you'd be hoofing it or taking the bus for the rest of your life. Driving is a privelege and so many people forget that. Be glad I ain't a traffic cop!

I got an Idea! Just pull off the road when you want to plow over someone and bang your head on a tree or scream obsenities at the top of your lungs away from traffic's veiw. Or better yet go into oncoming traffic...hehe (just kidding) Get off the road and release it where no one gets hurt knock some sense into yourself.That way you don't hurtor endanger anyone else,and you get the anger out. And you will never have to be humiliated with your snapshot on "Citizen clean's" road rage site. U panther

My Take on Posting #8

This newsgroup came up with various ideas to lessen the intensity of road rage. When it comes to fast drivers, one should pull on the side to allow that individual to past. This would be ideal, but would people be willing to do this?? People should just relax a little and stop rushing here and there. An alternative to road rage that was brought up is pulling on the side of the road to bang one's head on a tree. This sounds funny, but it probably would work. I think having a punching bag in the car would be efficient. Anyway, plastic needs to slow down and look at himself. Reevaluation of oneself needs to be practiced. Speed is dangerous anyway it's looked at. Always being in a hurry causes such road rage.

Posting #9: Driving Pet Peeves

Driving Pet Peeves
Date: 1998/09/10

My driving pet peeves:

1. People that forget to turn their blinkers off.
2. People that don't use their blinkers at all.
3. Pedestrians that think they can step out in the middle of the road anywhere, anytime, and still have the right-of-way.
4. People that slow down to a complete stop before making a turn.
5. People in the fast lane that don't have the courtesy to change lanes when there are 5 people behind them.
6. People that pull up to a stoplight in the right lane when they are going straight (even if the left lane is empty), so those behind them who are making a right turn have to wait until the light turns green.
7. People in a parking lot that take forever to get in their car and leave, even when there are a million cars waiting to find a spot.
8. People that steal the parking spot you've been sitting there waiting for.
9. People who park in more than one spot so no one will hit their car.
10.People thatmatch your speed when you are trying to pass.

My Take on Posting #9

This writer was trying to convey a list of driving pet peeves. The writer complains of people's behaviors while driving that most irritate him. Many of the writer's pet peeves were instances that are common in all driving areas, as I have witnessed them everywhere I have driven or rode in car.

I agree with the basic concept behind the list, but I do disagree with the way it was written. In each peeve, it begins with "people who" or "people that". Is the writer trying to say that he is peeved with the people or the action that the people are taking? For instance, if someone is taking too long to get to their car in a crowded parking lot, perhaps it is for some physical reason and not because they are bad drivers or inconsiderate people.

The select times where people do these things are not enough to pigeon-hole them into a category where they are the pet peeves of an individual. This is a psychological concept called generalization. It is unfortunate that the majority of society thinks this way, as it is the normal way to think. By generalizing things, people are able to make quicker decisions about things. However, these generalizations are not always correct.

Posting #10: Speed Racers on the Highway

Re: Speeding: Law Enforcement folks' opinions?
Date:1998/08/30

All good comments here for the most part. I for one feel that the police who say they're doing their job, are in fact doing it, but it's the local politicians who just don't care. After all; they're the ones who allocate funds for how many police can be working.

That said though, I've got a suggestion for these idiot politicians: Get a lot more cops out there actually driving the highways and giving a lot more tickets for these idiots who just constantly must go beyond 10mph over the speed limit. All the cities and towns and boroughs constantly complain that they don't have enough tax revenue, but they could easily get more income from these tickets, and that includes paying for the cops!

How can they make THAT much? Simple; there are thousands upon thousands of idiots on the road these days, and no I'm not an old geezer who putts down the road, but when I'm doing 70 to attempt to keep up with the flow of traffic, and 90% of the drivers are blowing by me at about 90mph or higher, and the speed LIMIT <---- Note the word used in the sign? ... is posted at 55mph what else can / should be done?

Those speeders and "road rage" people are complete idiots, even if they have a brain somewhere between their ears, that they tend to use at work, home and everywhere ELSE BUT THE ROAD!

I don't know if they can't distinguish between being at a wreckless driving arcade game and the real road, or if they think there's a TV camera watching them, and they are the stunt people. Whatever they are thinking, it surely isn't much beyond what a lower species can think, and the local D.M.V.s must have hired lemonaid stand people to pass these wackos.

Very simply put; THEY'RE STUPID!!!! ... a threat to law abiding drivers, and NEED TO BE DEALT WITH NOW!!!

I've driven a hundred miles or so many times and hardly see any police out on the roads in the mid-atlantic area. Oh sure, every end of the month when they want some quotas they're out there, but other than that; nope, nada, nichts, nothing, zero, zip, or as former Pres. Bush would say: "Nope. Not gonna do it." This attitude is as bad as the bad drivers too! What the hell do these cops get paid for?

I hear a lot of people say that: "That's just the way things are today, and you've got to go with the flow.", but I totally disagree. I think it's time we (who obviously are the few who still care about human life) start writing our representatives and congress about this, instead of just writing to each other in here. I think I'll start writing that letter right now. Thanks for listening though.

My Take on Posting #10

The writer is clearly venting aggresion towards the other drivers who go over the speed limit on the freeway. The writer admits that he drives 70 just to keep up with the flow of traffic. The writer also wants more cops to ticket those who are driving at such fast speeds.

I agree with what the writer observes, but I don't agree with the manner it is written. He says that there are drivers who drive way above the speed limit, calls them stupid, proclaims they need to be dealt with now, yet admits to driving fast due to the peer pressure from these stupid drivers.

I think this reflects societies view that it is okay to break the rules as long as everyone else is doing it. If you think about it, it is prevalent from when we are children. If we see another kid breaking the rules, we go and break the rules, justifying it with the other child's actions. It also is a form of self denial. The writer needs to identify that the action taken are characteristic of a speeder, those which are insulted in the posting. The writer needs to correct the personal driving problems that he or she has, then the posting would have more merit.

My Reaction and Conclusion

In conclusion, I feel that I now have a better grasp of what "Road Rage" is. Through the tedious research I had the pleasure of opening up many sites pretaining to this subject. Many if not all of these sites were excellently done with many valueable links to search through. In response to the question of "Road Rage", I have to come to a similar conclusion as those students before me. I too feel that it is all about patience, time management, and pride. I know that I have been in that situation where I felt the "Rage" but luckily for me, I didn't act on my "Rage", instead I acted with my head.

For future students looking to do their newsgroup on this subject, good luck. There are lots of valueable information out there. You just need the time and effort to retrieve whats out there. I reccomend that you provide yourself with ample time to do research. This project isn't very hard, but it is very tedious and time consuming. However, once you get going, it gets easier to do. So to all the future students of Psy 409, GOOD LUCK.

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