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Negative emotions and driver safety

On Behalf of | Sep 24, 2020 | Car Accidents |

Drivers in Kentucky may feel that they are being safe as long as they avoid external distractions like eating, drinking and using their phone. But they can become cognitively distracted through negative emotions like anger and impatience. These emotions impair judgment and make it harder to anticipate and react to dangers on the road.

Impatience causes worse driving

The decision-making ability of drivers becomes severely impaired with impatience. Impatient drivers are more likely to speed, tailgate and run red lights. They will be less likely to come to a full stop when turning on red. They may also cut in front of other drivers. These same behaviors can be manifested among angry drivers. Anger can be so clouding that experts encourage angry drivers to pull over to relax before anything else.

Good attitude gives energy

Being stressed or depressed can lead to poor judgments, too, largely from the lack of physical and mental energy. With positive thoughts, drivers should be able to regain some energy. At the same time, they should be realistic and not overconfident in their driving skills, which can happen to many impatient drivers.

By avoiding these negative emotions, drivers can be more willing to follow the traffic laws and practice courtesy toward other road users. In addition, they can be more aware of the consequences of bad driving.

For victims of an angry, reckless driver

Many auto accidents are caused by negligence or recklessness. Some even involve road rage. If you suffered serious injuries at the hands of a reckless driver, and if your insurance company cannot cover the losses, you may pursue a personal injury claim. A lawyer may explain what you might be eligible for in damages; it may even include punitive damages, which are meant to punish the defendant and discourage future recklessness.