Photo Credit: Pixabay.comYou may hear scary statistics about car accidents and the dangers you face while on the road, but the fact is that driving a car has never been safer. Cars themselves are safer than they've ever been and offer more protective features and smart technology than ever before. Young people today face the most stringent driving tests and road requirements of any generation, and there's more law enforcement than ever out there to help stop bad drivers from endangering everyone on the road. That being said, you must do your part to drive safely to protect your family and the families of others on the road. Here are some ways to be a happier, healthier driver when commuting to and from work or anytime you're on the road.Battle Stress and Reduce Road RageIt's inevitable that at some point we all experience a bit of road rage. Driving is inherently stressful as we deal with traffic, inconsiderate drivers, and running late for meetings or appointments. However, you can actively battle these stressors and reduce instances of road rage - and it's not even that hard. Practicing mindfulness exercises in your car helps. Full-on meditation would be dangerous, but using some aspects of meditation to help you stay calm is very effective. If you feel yourself getting worked up, try counting. It's simple, but it works. Try to create your own calmness mantra and repeat it in times of extreme stress. Calming music or audiobooks are also great ways to reduce stress in your car. Give Yourself More Time for Your CommuteWake up five to ten minutes earlier than you normally do so that you can leave your house a few minutes earlier. It's tempting to drive aggressively when you feel like you must get somewhere at a certain time and you're running late. Aggressive driving is any bending of the road rules that may endanger you or others on the road. This includes, but is not limited to, running yellow lights, ignoring stop and yield signs, making close passes, and tailgating. Aggressive driving is a problem but is on the decline as people become more aware that their driving - though seemingly normal to them - is, in fact, aggressive to others. Put Your Phone in the GloveboxWe are all tempted to use our phones in the car. Even if you can resist texting and driving or making calls while in motion, many of us still check our phones at stoplights, which is still dangerous. To rid yourself of any and all temptations, simply place your phone in your glovebox before you put your car in drive. Many other phone-related activities are also very distracting, like changing the music and looking at maps. If you want to check your phone, pull over in a safe place and put the car in park. You'll not only be a safer driver, but you'll also give yourself a few minutes to break free of the strong technological hold we all face, which will in turn help you to destress. You spend a lot of time in your car, but it doesn't have to be a miserable, dangerous experience. By focusing on ways to be calm and non-aggressive, you'll not only improve your mental wellbeing but you will make the road a safer place for you, your family, and for all who travel. Paul is a DIY home repair expert and a Copperleaf resident. You can learn more about Paul here.
