Professor James;
Aggressive driving is a myth
created by bureaucrats, the news media, and social researchers. What is relevant is
not the emotional state of a driver, which can run the gamut of emotions and attitudes,
even among perfectly safe drivers. What matters are the *behaviours*, which are
already proscribed by a multitude of long-standing laws. We don't need another busize="3word to
justify enforcement of lane usage, right of way, and reckless driving laws. Since
increased speed limits have been proven safe, we don't need another fear-inducing term to
justify perpetuation of speed traps. I suggest that if you are interested in traffic
safety, you begin by studying the body of knowledge generated by generations of traffic
engineers. They truly know what they are doing, unlike the idle or self-interested
speculations and programs of bureaucrats, the news media, and social researchers. Be
wary of those types.
Wednesday, 2 August 2000
Is it true that it is more likely that you will get into an
accident within 5 miles of home than on the highway? -- Kerilyn
Dr. Driving forwarded your question to me... Absolutely.
The streets and highways you most take for granted are the ones you are most likely to die
or get hurt on. -- Mr. Traffic (mrtraffic.com)
Thursday, 3 August 2000
Subject: question about age
Hi I'm Isabella...I'm 15 years old and cant wait to drive,
I'm saving money for insurance and a car...but my friend just told me that I cant drive
until I'm 18 b/c I was born in 1985...is that true?
Hi, I've forward your question to Mr. Traffic who will
answer you later today about the legal information. As far as your preparation for
driving--you say you're ready. I hope so. But to make sure, please go to my site for teen
drivers and read what's there. Then please write back and let me know if you think you're
prepared. The site address: http://DrDriving.org/youth
Aloha!
Dr. Driving forwarded your question to me. You can drive
before 18 if you have drivers Ed training and then pass the tests. -- Mr. Traffic
(mrtraffic.com)
Friday, 4 August 2000
Subject: Injury Prevention Campaign
To Whom it May Concern: I would like to contact someone at
your organization regarding your injury prevention campaign or research purposes. Is
there a phone or fax number I could have to ask someone some questions?
Thanks very much, -- Kirsten
Hi Kirsten; you can email us your questions and we'd be
happy to answer you. Please explain in more detail what this is all about. Thanks. Aloha!
--
Leon and Diane
Friday, 4 August 2000
Subject: Driving age
Hello, Dr. Driving! I enjoyed your site and learned a lot
about a subject I am genuinely concerned about. To get to the point, I was wondering
if you could tell me if you know of any organizations that are trying to raise the legal
driving age to 18. I am a mother of a one year old and I hope to see the laws change
before it becomes an issue for us!! I have lost a few friends in high school and I know
how much more likely that age group is to get in accidents and be killed. Any information
you may have will be greatly appreciated!! Thank you!!
I commend you on your concern! As far as the law is
concerned, possibly Mr. Traffic might be able to answer you more specifically. I'm sending
him a copy of this. As far as taking care of your child, I would recommend you start her
driver education now. Get her involved and if you express hostility while she's in the
car, be sure to counter it by something positive. Teach her about the road, about
civility, and be sure you don't get her used to speed. We have some activities listed
here: http://DrDriving.org/youth Aloha. -- Leon
James, Diane Nahl (DrDriving)
This is not going to happen, sadly. But many states are
putting in the teen GRADUATED DRIVERS LICENSE. Take a look at http://mrtraffic.com/kidlicns.htm -- Mr.
Traffic
Saturday, 5 August 2000
Subject: merging
Hi Mike; we enjoyed your Honolulu advertiser
column on merging (July 20) that someone just sent me as a clipping. As DrDriving we keep
track of these issues. For years we've been telling our students this idea of going all
the way to the cones (construction), then merge, and to avoid multiple merge points, which
slow down the non-merging lane. This is the reason why everyone in that lane is mad at the
"jerk" that passes everyone and goes all the way to the cones. Our students
fought this idea for years and we often failed to convince them of the logic. We discuss
this issue in our new book (listed below). At any rate, you might be interested in this
page (discussed in our book) that shows how letting cars into your lane (not closing the
gap) actually gets the traffic going faster for everyone (another big misconception): http://www.eskimo.com/~billb/amateur/traffic/traffic1.html
Aloha!
Saturday, 5 August 2000
Subject: website
www.reportroadrage.co.uk
Hi, its a while since we last communicated. Just to let you
know things are going well with the web site
www.reportroadrage.co.uk
and I have enlisted
the help of a major motoring organization to help with the press releases etc. Please let
me know if you are near to launching your book in the UK as I would like to market it in
some way on the site. Drivers are responding to the site, although it is in its early
days, but features on television and radio are planned soon as well as national press
announcements. The responses I have had all been very positive and appears overdue. Many
thanks for your assistance early on and if I can help you out, please let me know. --
Shaun
Hi Shaun; your site is wonderful, I like it. Great promise!
If you want to list our new book you can now--it's offered by Amazon UK at:
search under the title:
ROAD RAGE AND AGGRESSIVE DRIVING:
Steering Clear of Highway Warfare. Aloha!
Sunday, 6 August 2000
Subject: Re: website
www.reportroadrage.co.uk
Hi Leon, many thanks for your kind words and for letting me
know of the existence off the book's whereabouts. Someone I know has been asked the
question" In which city was road rage first identified in 1984" I wonder if you
can help! Thanks -- Shaun
Shaun; I believe it was in London by the India Report
Online (or some such Indian publication in London). It was a brief article complaining
about the drivers in that part of London. I'll try to find more details for you. And
possibly before that was the Lex something report (around 1984) (I believe it's an
insurance company in England). I'll see if I can find the details. Incidentally, if you
want to quote material from our book, feel free to select pieces, then put a link to that
page at the bottom. This is the page to link to and where you can take pieces to quote.
When you do this, please let me know or see it online. Thanks. Aloha. -- Leon
Sunday, 6 August 2000
Subject: Your site has been included on OpenHere
Hi, Your site was recently submitted to OpenHere.com
. We
have reviewed your site and decided to include it as follows:
Link: http://DrDriving.org
Title: DrDriving Teaches You Driving Psychology
Description: DrDriving Gives Advice and analyses road
rage psychology OpenHere Category: http://www.openhere.com/life/issues/violence/road-rage/
As you are listed as a contact person on the home page of
this site, I am dropping you a quick note to let you know about your inclusion on
OpenHere. OpenHere is one of the 10 largest index and search sites on the Internet and is
specifically focused on creating resources for the family. You can dynamically modify your
site's listing at any time, or include your site's listing in other categories on
OpenHere.com . When you modify your site's listing, it is automatically placed at the top
of the category in which it is included, and is placed first in the search engine results
for the keywords relating to your site.
To modify, add or delete your listing: 1. Go to the
OpenHere category where your site is listed; 2. Click on the "Suggest a
Site" link; 3. Follow the instructions for changing your listing. All of the
modifications you submit to OpenHere.com are processed in real time. As soon as you
see the response to your submission, your site listing should be updated. OpenHere is
frequented by both children and families. As a result,
www.OpenHere.com
does not include
links to material which is illegal to display to minors. If you have a question, or need
help in any way, please just send me a note. Yes, I am a real person! -- Sara
(www.OpenHere.com )
Monday, 7 August 2000
Good evening sir, I am righting a report. I am not sure if
you still exist but I thought I would try. I am unable to get to any of your pages
and would like to if possible. I was wondering if you would be able to give me some
information on policies initiated or proposed on road rage, organizations, or other info
you think is interesting. Please contact me soon, thus this is important to me.
Thanks -- B.
Please try to reach the site. No doubt your area has had
traffic problems. You’ll find the information you asked about.
http://DrDriving.org
Aloha!
Sunday, 6 Aug 2000
Subject: Re: research proposal outline
Thank you Leon. You have pulled me out of an impasse --
Adam
Monday, 7 August 2000
Subject: for Tom
Mr. G, as DrDriving, we enjoyed your December 6
article in the Detroit News online (I just found it). It made me think you would be
interested in knowing about our brand new book ROAD RAGE AND AGGRESSIVE DRIVING. You can
see selections and reviews here: http://DrDriving.org/articles/book_toc.htm
Aloha!
Monday, 7 August 2000
Subject: origin of road rage
Have you seen this article, Shaun?
Site
Aloha!
Monday, 7 August 2000
Subject: "Rail Rage"
Have there been any articles or studies done regarding
incidents or "rail rage", that is passengers acting out at conductors, ticket
agents, etc. in the same ways that they do at airline personnel? I work for a
commuter railroad and I train people how to be Assistant Conductors. I am concerned
that this is an issue that is not being addressed by my employer and would like to know
more about the subject so that I can incorporate some information into my classes. Thanks
you for your time. -- Gerrie
Here is an article on rail rage: http://www.the-times.co.uk/news/pages/tim/2000/05/27/timnwsnws01048.html
I think this is an important issue. Let me know if you find
out anything. Aloha!
Tuesday, 8 August 2000
Dr. H; I was reading your excellent article for about.com on Is Road Rage a Mental Disorder? Site
in which you refer to our work. Our new book ROAD RAGE AND AGGRESSIVE DRIVING will be on
the shelves in September and you might like to look at the extensive selections we have on
our site at: http://DrDriving.org/articles/book_toc.htm
It contains clickable end notes for all the Web resources we used—which might be
useful. Aloha!
Hello Dr. James: I received your email. I really like
your stuff on road rage. I'm a little behind in reviewing sites, but I'll take a
look as soon as I can. -- Leonard
Tuesday, 8 August 2000
Subject: Re: "Rail Rage"
Thank you for your prompt response. I'll let you know
how I use the information. Thanks again. – Gerrie
Wednesday, 9 August 2000
Subject: Road Rage at road constructions sites
Dr. James; my name is Mike
Archbold, a reporter with the South
County Journal in King County south of Seattle. I'm doing a story on a major road closure
that began Monday that has motorists abusing flaggers on each end of the closure, from
verbal abuse to spinning wheels to throw gravel at them. I wonder if you might have a
comment or two on why people behave so poorly. Obviously they are inconvenienced but
the flagger didn't close the road. Is this just human nature? road closures tick people
off and should cities design projects to minimize disruption? The city did a lot of
work with fliers and signs telling people of the closure but they didn't seem to help. I
know it is past 11 a.m. but if you could e-mail me a general comment about the psychology
of the drivers in such situations I would appreciate it. If you have time to talk, send me
your phone number. Thanks Aloha. -- Mike
Hi Mr. Archbold; You no doubt would like to have written
answers--it's easier to quote or summarize. The following is attributable to both of
us--Leon
James and Diane Nahl.
the road. Is this just human nature? road closures tick
people off and should cities design projects to minimize disruption? The city did a
lot of work with fliers and signs telling people of the closure but they didn't seem to
help.
A road closure, or other street construction work, creates
an immediate new challenge for the majority of drivers who have adjusted to travelling
through that route and are counting on it as part of their schedule. When the blockage
begins there is an immediate and overwhelming emotional demand placed on the drivers who
have come to rely on that route. Many drivers possess the personality resources that they
can put into play, ways they have learned in the past to manage themselves when
emotionally challenged. They act rationally, taking steps to cope, like finding about
alternate routes, making changes in their normal schedule, giving themselves more time,
re-adjusting their expectations about how long it takes to get there, and being prepared
with doing what they consider productive activities in the car, whether it's listening to
some recording or preparing for the next appointment, or talking on the car phone. These
skilled or excellent drivers are in the minority.
The majority of drivers are unprepared to handle it
emotionally when the gridlock hits them. What they do then as an unexamined habit is to
perform a series of mistakes that chain themselves together to produce in them the
symptoms and ravages of rage. Unprepared to handle the slowdown, sitting there fuming and
venting and complaining and creating huge stress for themselves. The traffic is not their
worst enemy, because they injure themselves emotionally and physiologically, creating
massive amounts of stress and unhappiness. As they perform these automatic habits acquired
in childhood, they also take risks and act aggressively as an ineffective attempt to
escape the emotional pressure they put themselves under. They act impulsively to escape
the panic of getting stuck, and in that action they take risks, make mistakes, and add
tremendously to the emotional difficulty of the other drivers around them who are forced
to meet their irrational level of risk.
Under the emotional panic, many drivers who have not
prepared themselves--the majority of drivers--will also express hostility and act
aggressively and forcefully and regrettably. Other drivers are scared or injured,
pedestrians are put at risk, passengers suffer, the highway becomes a war zone, as we
document and describe in our new book ROAD RAGE AND AGGRESSIVE DRIVING: STEERING
CLEAR OF HIGHWAY WARFARE by Leon James and Diane Nahl (see our Web site at:
http://DrDriving.org).
Here is what we recommend: TO THE DRIVERS WHO ARE AFFECTED
1) Leave earlier and expect to arrive later. Most
drivers will discover this way that the traffic doesn't have to be stressful. In fact,
many can learn to love it and appreciate it as quality time alone during which they can
relax with their thoughts.
2) Before you start your engine take one minute to
relax, to calm yourself, to prepare for what to do when you feel emotional panic rising
within, and you're frantically acting out to escape or seek relief from it. At that
point say STOP IT! Breathe slowly. Make funny noises. Sing. But don't give in. Don't vent.
Remain in control of yourself and of the vehicle. This way you retain control of the
situation and you arrive alive and unbothered vs. bothered and possibly injured. Give
yourself a reward each time you gain victory over your emotional self.
3) Use this opportunity to take a good look at yourself
as a driver. Most drivers are unknown to themselves, ignoring their own mistakes while
noticing the mistakes of others and being very judgmental about it. Get to know yourself
by keeping records for each trip. You can do a recording while you think aloud behind the
wheel and give a running commentary of what's in your mind. Listening to the tape later on
becomes both informative and therapeutic. Or else you can stay in your car for a couple of
minutes and write a few notes about the trip, like how you felt or reacted and how
strongly. Later you can read your notes and ask Why? Why do I have to feel this way?
We need to remind ourselves that we started our driver
education as infants and children riding in our parents' cars, or with other adults. Add
also a good dose of TV scenes in which drivers are behaving badly, laughing at it, making
it look like fun and getting away with it. By the time we start driving, we've had years
of exposure and learning to the hostile environment on the road. It becomes natural to be
a road warrior or a rushing maniac. The majority of drivers make frequent mistakes and
choose to violate the law on a routine, daily basis.
The federal government and transportation professionals
have declared that congestion due to construction and more demand will increase
significantly in the next 10 years and beyond. Drivers cannot escape this emotional
challenge by complaining or taking it out on each other or construction workers. The only
solution they have is a driving personality makeover, that is, learning how to get rid of
some old anti-social habits and learning how to substitute new ones. For more details,
please visit the Web site: http://DrDriving.org Aloha!
Wednesday, 9 August 2000
Subject: AAA Education Committee
Dr. James; I have been asked by a friend who is with the
Automobile Club of Southern California to assist him in suggesting candidates for a new
"AAA Education Committee" to be formed in Hawaii and your name came immediately
to mind. The broad purpose of the committee will be to help create motivational,
anti-drug, and safe-driving programs targeted to intermediate & high schools students
statewide. The AAA currently operates a similar highly successful program in
California, but they want to insure the content and delivery are optimized for Hawaii
youngsters. If you have an interest in exploring this idea further, please Email me and I
will have the AAA contact you directly. Thank you. -- Bill
Hi Bill; Thanks for your kindness in suggesting that I
serve on the AAA Hawaii committee for encouraging safe driving by teenagers and other
issues. I would like to serve on such a committee. May I suggest also that you add Dr.
Diane Nahl, my partner and co-author of our DrDriving curriculum programs. Aloha -- Leon
James
Tuesday, 8 August 2000
Subject: Re: Injury Prevention Campaign
Hi Leon and Diane, I work for Health Canada in the Children
and Youth division. One of the projects I'm working on right now is an environmental
scan of injury prevention programs for children. This scan is very informal.
We started out by contacting some national and regional campaign coordinators some
questions and from there we've moved on and are hoping to get in touch with some program
coordinators in other countries (such as yourself). We'd like to simply get a
feeling of what kinds of injury prevention messages are reaching children and people in
constant contact with kids, and most importantly, how successful these campaigns have
been. I've attached the survey and I would really appreciate it if your could fill
it out. You can return it to me electronically or if you'd prefer to mail it, I've
included my address in the attachment. Thanks so much – Kirsten
Hi Kirsten; Thanks for sending the questionnaire. After
looking at it, I realized
right away we don't qualify. I would have to say "Not
Applicable" to just about all the questions. I guess we're not yet an organization
with CARR, but we're aspiring to be in the future. Aloha!
Wednesday, 9 August 2000
Subject: Road Rage
Dear Sir or Madam: I am the Youth Council Director for
Greene County (Greeneville), Tennessee. This is a program of the Greene County
Partnership (Chamber of Commerce) and is sponsored by local businesses and industry.
The Youth Council is a service-oriented group consisting of students from all 5 area high
schools coming together to perform community projects, such as Habitat for Humanity,
preparing and serving Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners for the homeless, bell-ringing at
Christmas, visiting and decorating local nursing homes at Christmas, collecting gifts and
donations for underprivileged children at Christmas, etc. We will be focusing on teenage
driving and road rage in a couple of our monthly meetings. I found you website and
am very interested in obtaining any information you could give me on this topic. I
am especially interested in obtaining the CARR workbook and its Driving Awareness Forms
and Activities. Please let me know if there is a fee for receiving these items or any
additional information you may need. Thank you for your dedication to this VERY important
national crisis!! -- Kelly
Thursday, 10 August 2000
Subject: (no subject)
Dr. James; Thank you for your reply to my questions. It
arrived too late for my editors to use, but I would like to do a story on Road Rage,
causes and cures. Your information will certainly help. I will telephone you later and we
can talk. I'm sure you could help give such an article direction. Thank you again. -- Mike
Thursday, 10 August 2000
Subject: Web Site use permission
Hello; I would like to use some of the information
presented through your website in a presentation I am preparing on aggressive
driving. I would of course cite your website as one of the resources used.
Would I be able to make use of your very resourceful webpage to help reduce dangerous
driver and increase awareness on the growing hazardous drivers and situations? Thank you
for your time. -- Zara
Thursday, 10 August 2000
Subject: Canadian TV documentary about women and wheels
Dear Leon and Diane; We're making a 13-part documentary
series about women and their wheels, and found your web site brimming with great
information. I'm guessing by your email address that you're a long way away from Winnipeg
in the center of Canada, and am therefore wondering if you might be able to put us in
touch with a Canadian expert in the same field as you. Any information would be extremely
helpful. Pasted below is our media release for your information. Thank you. -- Tamara
(Credo Entertainment)
You Bet I Drive Like a Woman!
HEAD OVER WHEELS
An "Auto" Biography Documentary Series about
Women and their Vehicles WINNIPEG (July 2000) – We’ve heard a lot about how guys
feel about their cars, but has anyone ever asked how women relate to their cars?
In ads, women are often portrayed as hood ornaments or are
seen driving the kids to the mall. But do women like to go fast, too, and have power and
control at their hands? How much is a car an extension of a woman’s personality?
Is driving a passion? Does she experience ‘auto’eroticism, or is her
car an office on wheels complete with makeup, a laptop and a cell phone?
To answer these unexplored questions, Credo Entertainment
wants to hear from women drivers all across Canada. We want to know about their personal
take on auto experiences. Have women been in the passenger seat long enough and feel
driven to finally let loose?
Winnipeg’s Credo Entertainment Corporation is
producing HEAD OVER WHEELS, a ground-breaking 13-part television series which will
premiere on WTN-The Women’s Television Network (www.wtn.ca) in the fall of 2001.
Organized around themes, each episode will include interviews with women telling stories
about how their car connections have shaped their lives. Work, collectors, nostalgia, road
trips, sex and fetish, speed, marketing, motorcycles, family cars, learning to drive --
these are some of the themes that will be explored when filming begins this August.
Response to advertisements placed in newspapers across the
country has been enthusiastic, generating a lot of talk. Director Shereen Jerrett says
she’s been "blown away" by the quality of stories women have shared.
"The response has been heartfelt. Women have called in with everything from their
first sexual encounter in a car to crazy traffic incidents and nightmare road trips. These
women feel really strongly about their cars. It’s going to be a great
series!"
Shereen Jerrett is an award-winning documentary filmmaker
whose credits include Kid Nerd (1997) and Dog Stories (1994). Credo Entertainment is one
of western Canada’s largest television production companies which has created
feature films and documentaries for broadcast around the world.
Funding for this series is being provided by WTN, the
Canadian Television Fund (License Fee Programme, Equity Investment Programme) and Manitoba
Film and Sound Development Corporation.
Women are invited to call Credo to relate their car
chronicles for this one-of-kind television series at toll-free 1-877-434-0003, local
989-8238 or 989-8316, or e-mail at wheels@pangea.ca.
Friday, 11 August 2000
Subject: Re: AAA Education Committee
Dr. James; Thank you for your positive response. I
have forwarded our communication to the committee organizer - Rick, AAA Southern
California. I also gave Rick the "Dr. Driving" web address. Cheers
-- Bill
Friday, 11 August 2000
Subject: Mailed Traffic Citations
Handing traffic citations to overly aggressive drivers on
the freeway helps to deter traffic violations. However, other drivers
"rubberneck" when they see police vehicles parked on the freeway
shoulder. And "rubbernecking" may result in traffic congestion or
serious accidents.
In your opinion, could mailed citations be as effective as
hand-delivered citations in deterring freeway traffic violations? If HPD were
legally empowered to mail traffic citations, would you advise them to do so? Would
you mind if I showed your response to HPD?
These are not academic questions.
Last fall, I drafted a bill which became Act 240, Session
Laws of Hawaii 2000. (The full text of Act 240 is available from the State
Legislature's internet web site.) Among other things, Act 240 amended Section
291C-165(b), Hawaii Revised Statutes, to authorize HPD to mail citations to
the registered owner of vehicles which committed traffic violations, provided that the
violation occurred on a "controlled access facility"
(i.e., most State highways) and "is recorded through the use of a hand-held
or mounted video camera, conventional camera, or digital camera that produces photographic
evidence of a vehicle...." Thanks for your advice.
Thanks for writing Mr. M.
Dr. Nahl and I believe that
mailed citations could provide the effect you desire, namely to impress upon people that
they must become more aware of their driving when it's illegal. At the very least it's a
method that can be tried for a period of time and assessed. No doubt other communities are
going through similar problems and solutions. NHTSA recommends that these data be kept
before the onset of the law, and for a period thereafter, to see any effects. This is our
public position and we feel it's justified, hence, you can quote us if you like. -- Leon
James, Diane Nahl DrDriving
August 16, 2000
Subject: road rage
Please can you help me, I am a final year
university student carrying out a dissertation on road rage. one of
the areas being covered is the attitude of motorists towards learner
drivers. i will be grateful for any information you can provide me with.
Thank you. -- Hazel.
Please use the search facility and directories on my
site to look for what you want. If after exploring you still couldn't find something let
me know. Good luck! Aloha!
August 15, 2000
Subject: Drivers Co-operating in Performance
PHONES WERE DOWN PLEASE TRY AGAIN 1-250-712-1111
Press Release By Teams of Excellence in Performance
"A SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY PROJECT ANTI AGGRESSIVE
DRIVING CAMPAIGN"
The campaign you are to read about can be changed to suit
any requirements of an interested jurisdiction It will work @ the grass roots level
to bring awareness to a solution that could quickly improve attitudes through
peer pressure and be used to track the BAD DRIVERS
The program uses voice recognition technology interacted
with the telephone to create conversational capabilities with a computer and a
telephone---Specifically the registration of a license plate number color of vehicle type
of vehicle all with conversation. The words, phrases
used are designed for demonstration purposes only. For
example, any question, can be asked. The information in the computer can be
protected with total privacy. For example if the phone
numbers from a database were merged with plate numbers that information
is extremely sensitive and would be totally protected with access to only authorized
individuals/authorities! My system will be able to print reports download
automatically files where a driver has had a certain
number of reports against him by the public. It is very
versatile to Customization!
The psychological evidence of how and why my program will
work is on the sponsors web site www.teamsofexcellence.com
(a company seeking charity status) I have spent thousands on the development of the
project MY OWN MONEY I have gone into big debt because of my conviction. I was
at one times a very serious road rager, that almost leads to death on the highway more
than once! I know of where I speak. And have insight to the solution. Just Try me!
My program takes a positive mental attitude at this point
right here thoughts of how to make it work! not thought of why it will not work!!
There is much more to my Campaign than is exposed here, for confidentiality
reasons. The concept is one thing! HOW IT IS PROMOTED IS THE MOST
IMPORTANT! -- TO GET grass roots attention Basically most people are very Good
inside. My program will bring it out and create positive change through
co-operation and reporting. A program, that will not miss if done correctly.
By making it a community project!
Please phone 1250-712-1111 to get a feeling for the
program Voice Recognition Telephony Technology The system is designed to be
first and fore most positive, creating a different image of car and driver. It will allow
one to diffuse his anger once he knows the system in up and
working. Creating pressure on bad drivers to improve. An
aggressive thinking every one seeing them drive could be a potential reporter
of their behaviour.-----You can fast forward the opening message by pushing any number but
zero You can also answer the yes, no, retry, vehicle description, ahead of the
question put in only one or two plate numbers/letters and say finished to get to another
message.
If you are serious about waging war against aggressive
driving I have a serious program that will do the job. Please do not dismiss it lightly
because you do not have time right now. Delegate it to someone with a positive open
mind It is a quantum leap in putting faith into the public to do a job in
co-operation simply based on the kindness of society and their willingness to band
together to take positive change happen Block Parents On the Highways
Protecting each other from the idiots by reporting them with a phone call If not the
public then the professional drivers Both the system works quickly when
used to it. It will happen do you want to be part of the solution
Give me a Call. – Michael
Friday, August 11, 2000
Subject: DBB
I saw an article about your work in the Indianapolis Star.
I am a salesman and spend hours on the road in my car. I concur with your premise that
video games make for aggressive drivers. In the "old days" we were taught that
you were to be able to see the headlights of any vehicle you had passed before pulling
back into that lane. Now a miss is as good as a mile. I contend that this is a consequence
of driving-oriented video games, where the objective is to weave rapidly around obstacles.
One can frequently see this behaviour on multilane interstate highways, as a
driver will move quickly from one lane to another to
another and back to the first, swerving around other vehicles as if they were the
electronic obstacles on a video screen.
I believe that the minimum driving age should be 18, and
that driving skills should be taught as an extended two year class like any other, instead
of the six-week sham that passes for driver training locally. Thanks for this opportunity
to vent!
Thanks for your comment, Fred. I agree with you about
video games playing this negative role. Perhaps we need more spotlight on this issue.
Aloha!
Monday, August 14, 2000
Subject: Dear DrDriving!!
Dear DrDriving: I am a student from MERCY COLLEGE and i am
doing a report about the issue
Road Rage for my assignment. Thus, I am writing this email
to ask you for some information about the issue Road Rage (in Western Australia if you
can!!). You can either send it to me by email or through mail!!! Thank you very much. Yours sincerely – Hieu
Please use the search facility and directories on my
site to look for what you want. If after exploring you still couldn't find something let
me know. Good luck! Aloha!
Friday, August 11, 2000
Subject: statistics
I have been searching everywhere and I have not found any
statistics about car accidents that happen close to home. I have a 16 yr old that
thinks that because he is only driving a very short distance (less than 1 mile) he doesn't
need to wear his seat belt. He feels that accidents don't happen within your
neighborhood, that they happen on the highways and freeways. I tell him that accidents can
happen anywhere at anytime and when you least expect it and to always be prepared. Do you
have any statistics that would back me up? -- Johnny
Check these tables:
Site
Aloha!
Sunday, August 13, 2000
Subject: Driving on mountainous highways
Dear Dr. Driving: I live in Phoenix, AZ and my son goes to
college in Flagstaff, AZ. I have to drive Highway 17 to and from.
I have a hard time keeping my eyes trained to the road. The mountains and the trees
make me panic and I get very nervous. Everybody around me is going 75 and 65
and I just can't do it. Do you have any advice? Thank you -- KCmRED
I think you need the immediate help of a professional,
either clinical psychologist, neurologist, or family physician can help you locate the
right person. Also a professional driver or driving instructor. Once you find out whether
your problem is neurological or psychological, you'll be able to decide what to do next.
The point is: you're at great risk and so are your
passengers and the drivers on the road. Get yourself checked now. It's not your fault that
you have these symptoms, but it is your responsibility to take care of them and not drive
under these circumstances. Sometimes the fix can be surprisingly easy and fast. Write back
to tell us how you're doing. Aloha!
Thursday, August 17, 2000
Subject: Permission to use charts
I would like permission to use some of the information
found at http://DrDriving.org/articles/philosophy.htm
for a Safety meeting presentation I need to make on Monday, August 21. Thanks.
Permission granted--and good luck! Let me know how it
went! -- Leon James (DrDriving)
Thursday, August 17, 2000
Subject: Re: Dear DrDriving!!
Dear DrDriving: Sorry to write to you again. I did go to
your web site and couldn't find any information that i need. Have you got any data or
graph about Road Rage in recent years?
( It will be wonderful if the date is about Teenager
involve in Road Rage) Thank you. – Hieu
Try these files:
http://DrDriving.org/youth,
http://DrDriving.org/surveys/interpretations.htm
Aloha!
Thursday, August 17, 2000
Subject: A Favor !!
Hi Dr. Driving! My name is Cesar, I´m paramedic from
Guadalajara Jal. Mex. I really love my job and I like to study a lot. I always try to give
the best care as possible to my patients.
I have been looking for information about how to drive an
ambulance, I mean, the lights and sounds of siren, When and Why ?, etc. But unfortunately
I haven’t been able to found it. I watched your internet page has a lot of
information about many things that nobody has. I’d like to know how I can get that
information. I will appreciate your answer. Thanks a lot!! -- Cesar
I searched Google for
ambulance driver training. I got a bunch of links that give you information you might want
to explore. That would be your first step. Good luck. Let me know if you find what you
want. Aloha!
Wednesday, August 16, 2000
Subject: Aggressive driving as a thesis topic
Hi, my name is Sharon and I am currently undertaking an
Honours degree in Psych, Australia. Hopefully, my hypothesis will fall out of the
available material on aggressive driving. I recently read an article in the courier Mail
which reported a study conducted by James Strickland of Hofstra University. In his
study he concluded that those who are frustrated by everyday life are more likely to
become aggressive behind the wheel. Do you know how I could get a hold of his
journal article? I have checked psychlit and there is no record of this paper
yet. If you are able to help I would love to hear from you. Thanks – Sharon
Sorry we don't. But Amazon.com lists 2 books by James
Strickland. In case you missed it, we have lots of references to driving and traffic
issues here: http://DrDriving.org/facts/references.htm
Aloha!
Wednesday, August 16, 2000
In class we are debating that women are aggressive drivers.
I am on the affirmative side(meaning debating for).Could you please email me any
information on aggressive women drivers. Yours Sincerely, Anthony Johnson
Try this file:
http://DrDriving.org/articles/gender.htm
Thursday, August 17, 2000
Hi, Unfortunately, I have no story (specifically) to speak
of. I am a courteous driver, but I don't have a story that I remember, and so this
isn't exactly a post (i.e., I'm shy, don't post me please...lol). The picture of the
green explorer upside down on top of the white Oldsmobile reminded me of this...I would
like to say that I think it should be very highly recommended (a requirement would be a
violation of freedoms) for newspapers, periodicals, shock-oriented FOX TV shows, etc. to
include via caption or with a voice-over the fate of the people inhabiting the vehicle!
This would make accidents much more real to audiences who
mostly see spectacular crashes of a half-dozen cars on The World's Wildest, Craziest,
Shocking, and Most Insanely Dangerous Police Chases Ever. If the narrator were to
say, "in the green car to the left, three people were seriously injured, and a young
college student, Jan Jones, was killed instantly," this would really disgust a lot of
people with speed and reckless driving. Then again, a lot of people wouldn't watch
these mindless shows after hearing the names of the people who were slaughtered either. Anyway, I was just wanting to say
that...every time I see an accident photo, I always wonder what happened to those
people...I could have known them...I wish they would include the people's fates. --
Stephen
Friday, August 18, 2000
Subject: hey about driving
My name is Mandy. I live in New Orleans, LA. Do I have to
have my permit before I can get my license? Thanks. – Mandy
Mandy: Dr. Driving forwarded your question to me. If you
are under 18, you must take drivers ed with your permit first. -- Mr. Traffic
(www.mrtraffic.com
)
Saturday, August 19, 2000
Subject: Subjects on air rage
It is really interesting to read all the discussion
regarding the road rage but unfortunately I need some research on air rage. I'm writing a
report on air rage for my assignment submission. Please help if you know of any relevant
points or links. Thank you. Regards ~ emily
Regarding air rage, I hope you are aware of our air rage
site at DrDriving: http://DrDriving.org/rages/index.htm
Aloha!
Saturday, August 19, 2000
Subject: RE: Air Rage
Hello, My name is Jimmy and I am a graduate student
at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. I have chosen the topic of Air Rage for my
graduate thesis. The title of my thesis is; "A Study to Determine what Role
Alcohol Plays in Air Rage and Solutions for Mitigating a Growing
Problem". In this paper I would like to
discuss all issues that contribute to Air Rage and then examine how
alcohol exacerbates these problems. Besides
http://DrDriving.org/rages/index.htm, do you know of any conferences,
seminars, books, sites, papers that I could use to assist me in my efforts. Very
Respectfully, Jimmy Dobbs: Graduate Student, Embry Riddle Aeronautical University --
Phoenix Arizona
Capt. D, all the information I find on the Web that
relates to air rage I place in my air rage site. Be sure to explore the dozens of links on
our site that leads you to other air rage sites and documents. Aloha!
Saturday, 19 August 2000
Subject: drivers vs. non-drivers....
I was thinking in the shower this morning that someone must
have done a study on the comparative psychologies of driving vs. non-driving
populations. Does being in control of a couple of tons of steel make a person more
aggressive and confident in general? Like comparing Americans with Japanese.
Same affluence level, but definitely different attitudes toward private vehicles. And
which comes first.. chicken... egg....
omelet? Have you seen anything in the literature about studies of
this type? -- Dr. W
Dr. D., I haven't seen studies on cross-cultural comparisons due to
car ownership. Let us know if you find anything. Aloha!
Saturday, 19 August 2000
Subject: Driving Safely
Hi Dr. Driving: I am a Pharmaceutical representative with
the Bayer Corporation and have been appointed the person in charge of helping keep my
sales division safe while working out on the road. We have 20 reps and 2 managers
who log in a lot of miles daily and I happened to come upon your website surfing for
driving safety information. I am not sure if I can be put on your mailing list, but
if it is possible, please add my name to your mailing list. I am going to purchase
your book since it may cover a number of important safety areas which I can present to my
co-workers and managers. The Bayer Corporation is committed to not only employee
safety, but family safety as well and I feel very lucky that my company has such a
commitment. In fact, we are evaluated on 7 different criteria on our performance and
one of the seven is strictly on safety. Please keep me posted on any updates you may
have on areas of safe driving. Thank you. Sincerely -- Scott
Hi Scott ;
We're delighted you can use our materials for
your safety program. We don't have a Newsletter so please check back
often as we put new materials on our site on a daily basis. Of
course you can let us know if you're looking for something specific
and we'll make it available to you. Some of the
TEE Cards in this file
might be quite useful to hand out. Also,
in relation to distracted driving or sleepiness,
this file has information and
hints on how to handle it.
If you let us know what your top concerns are, we will
suggest additional specific materials. Let us know what your reaction is to our book. We
found out that it's shipping this week for current orders online or by phone, and they
will be in bookstores by next week.
Aloha!
Saturday, 19 August 2000
Congratulations for your great initiative ! I am a
physician , talking from Rio de Janeiro , Brazil I am a specialist in traffic medicine and
psychology. Please send me more information about other related sites. Yours truly -- Dr.
N
Thanks for your kind words Dr.
N. Please continue to
explore out site--there is a lot of information and also links to Web pages. If you're
looking for something specific be sure to let us know. Perhaps you’d like to read our
look and possibly translate it for Brazil readers. The books are at:
http://DrDriving.org/articles/book_toc.htm Aloha!
Sunday, 20 August 2000
Subject: road rage article
I enjoyed your article at http://www.hindustantimes.com/nonfram/180500/abo.htm
which was on road rage and in which you quote me. I'd like to draw your attention to our
new book Road Rage and Aggressive Driving just now published. Here are selections and
reviews: http://DrDriving.org/articles/book_toc.htm
Enjoy. --
Leon James (DrDriving)
Monday, 21 August 2000
Subject: article (fwd)
Dr. Nahl; Thanks for your time this afternoon (or morning,
I guess, where you are). I'd love to get in touch with your publisher to get a copy of the
book by Wednesday, if possible. -- Liz (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)
Monday, 21 August 2000
Subject: Talk of the Valley 8-16-00
Dr. James and Dr. Nahl: I want to thank you again for being
our guests on the August 16th show of Talk of the Valley. Your collective insight on
the subject of road rage was fascinating and informative. If you are not familiar,
Sun Valley is an upscale ski resort in central Idaho. It is actually the first
destination ski resort in the US, having been founded in 1938 by Avril Harriman.
With a year round population of less than 10,000, it is
hard to believe we are beginning to experience acts of road rage, yet as we discussed on
the show, they have become all too common. I cannot help but believe that road rage
is merely a manifestation of a much deeper malaise in our society. I think it is a
function of our preoccupation with wealth and status, and the need people see to "get
ahead" without regard for who they might trample along the way. Any
solution to the problem of road rage would require a massive readjustment of our social
priorities. Thank you again, for your participation and your good work. As
with all social ills, education is always the starting point. Regards -- Gene
Friday, 11 Aug 2000
Subject: newspaper article
Dear Drs. James and Nahl; I am a writer with the Fort Worth
Star-Telegram in Texas, getting ready to report a story on road rage (including some
first-person testimony!) I would love to speak with one or both of you on the subject
early next week, if possible, about your theories. I'll try calling, as well, to set up a
time. I look forward to hearing from you. Thanks -- Liz (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)
Mon, 21 Aug 2000
Subject: Thanks a lot
Hi Leon! I did what you told me. I found a lot of
information about how to drive an ambulance. Google is a very good search engine, I
didn’t Know it. I have a debt with you. thanks.
Tuesday, 22 August 2000
Subject: Re: Thank you
Dear Dr. James; Thank you for being part of our HSLEOA
Conference. I cannot express my gratitude enough. If there is anything you need from us
just give me a call. Thank you -- Bill
Sunday, 20 August 2000
Subject: Road Rageous
Dear Dr. Driving; Hi My name is Kerri and I am organizing
an educational Booth at our county Fair. We might do it over road rage and I think it
would be a good idea if we had the road rage video to use in the booth. If you could
please tell me more about it like how much it is and how I could get a copy of one.
Thank You so much and please reply soon . Thanks.
Sunday, 20 August 2000
Subject: Socio- cultural aspects
I would be interested in seeing your page on the socio
cultural aspects of
driving. Is it being worked on, when will it be available?
Also, do you think, as Klein and Waller (1973 I believe), that our driving attitudes can
be traced back to the Frontier Days and the Protestant ethic? Is there a news group for
driver ed teachers? – Kevin (Driver Ed teacher)
Hi Kevin, the socio cultural aspects of driving article you
asked about is on our site at: http://DrDriving.org/articles/philosophy.htm
and at http://DrDriving.org/youth/james1.htm
> Also, do you think, as Klein and Waller (1973 I
believe), that our driving attitudes can be traced back to the Frontier Days and the
Protestant ethic?
Interesting point. I think the car does symbolize freedom
on the open road, as is well known historically and culturally. But what about the
Protestant ethic--how do you mean that?
> Is there a news group for driver ed teachers?
I've never encountered one. But it's a great idea. Possibly
you could start one? We could future it on DrDriving to make it known. There are about a
dozen options you have with Web Portals that sponsor discussion groups free.
Since you're a Driver Ed teacher, you might be interested
in our RoadRageous video Course described at:
http://DrDriving.org/courses
Aloha!
Sunday, 20 August 2000
Subject: Re: drivers vs. non-drivers....
This idea actually started with a Japanese student who was
here at the U of O last year, and got a drivers license here just before he went
back. He had noticed that his friends in Japan, those that drove, were more
assertive than those that didn't (do assertive folks drive, or does driving cause
assertiveness), and wondered about the same phenomenon in the US. But we are such a
universally driving society, its hard to find a population of non-drivers. Wonder what
would have happened in the 50's if the decision had been made for mass transit instead of
the interstate highway system....... I'll keep looking. If you come across anything
related, let me know!
Monday, 21 August 2000
Subject: Air Rage: One Cause & Safety Concern
Dear Sir/Madam: I have flown on numerous airlines,
essentially traveling around the world some 50 times since 1980 in my business travels
between southeast Asia and the east coast of the US. While I have seen many cases of
ignorance of regulations and inconsideration by some (some of whose cultures seem to
incorporate non-consideration of others), I really believe the main cause of the
exasperation that leads, or at least contributes, to air rage is the appalling lack of
personal space available to passengers. The "cattle car" conditions forced on
passengers not wishing to spend exorbitant amounts to upgrade on long flights is
psychologically distressing and an affront to one's physical being.
Furthermore, I believe it is also dangerous. Watching
a fully grown middle-aged woman attempt to rise and move away from a middle coach seat is
at the best of times (all seat backs up, no personal articles and no adjacent passengers)
a jostling, grimacing trial, and in a emergency is extremely terrifying, difficult and
dangerous, all the more so for the adjacent subsequently immobilized passengers. I believe
that in the quest for profits, the airlines have been allowed to abuse the standards of
civility and safety. As a businessman I don't blame them as they are not called to
change, but as a person I resent it. I know I must hold my anger when I am stepped
on, banged in the knee, knocked on the elbow and bumped in the head, and I believe that
the FAA, CAA, and other regulating and supervising bodies need to be forced to issue
minimum space directives which require more sitting and maneuvering room than that
available to most passengers now. Sincerely -- Stephen
Monday, 21 August 2000
Subject: Air Rage
The flying public brings with them the same set of
standards and values they
bring to the movies, restaurants, and the highway, none.
Their manners and
mores will not change. The airlines should do much more to
inhibit passengers from certain freedoms like standing and taking in aisles during flights
with someone's ass in another's face. More importantly seats should be restricted from
leaning so as to prevent any intrusion into another's already limited uncomfortable space.
-- Arthur
Tuesday, 22 August 2000
Subject: Road Rage test surveys
Dr. James; I am a senior at Indiana University Southeast in
New Albany, In; and also a psych major. One of my last classes is Senior Seminar. In
this course I am required to do research, write a paper, and present the data and results
to faculty at the end of the semester. The topic I have selected is road rage. I am quite
pleased to say I found a lot of useful material on your site. However I tried to access
some of the surveys and they were not available. With your permission, I would like to use
some of the surveys found on your site. Also could you send me a listing of any other
materials I could purchase? I was having a hard time selecting a topic for my
research, but I happened upon this and feel very excited about it. Thank you in
advance for any help or advice you have to offer. Sincerely -- Debbie
Hi Ms. Debbie; We'd be happy to let you use any of our
surveys for your class report. Let us know which files you cannot access. As far as we
know, all are accessible (at least from this connection we're using). Also, we'd be happy
to help you find further relevant materials if you let us know what your outline is--you
can email it to us if you want. After reading for awhile, you might want to state (1)Why
this topic interests you (hence: why it's worth presenting to others); and (2)What do you
want your audience to learn about it (which possibly could include having them fill out a
survey or checklist--this allows people to focus in on themselves as drivers ((hence it's
good to do this activity at the beginning or the middle, rather than at the end). Aloha!
Tuesday, 22 August 2000
Subject: Road Rage
Leon-- I understand that you are the author of the Road
Rage Survey appearing on the Federal Highway Administration web page. I'm doing an article
on road rage for a Ryder System safety publication and seek reprint permission. May I? The
publication is a quarterly magazine that goes to 16,000 Ryder customers throughout the
U.S. I also wish to credit you by name. Is it Dr. Leon James? We could provide you copies
of the magazine, which will appear in late fall. I look forward to hearing from you.
Thanks... Bob
Hi Bob; I'm not certain that I am the
author--there have been several NHTSA has used. You'll have to give
me the site address, then I'll check it and email you back. My
survey on my site appears
here. If you haven't seen it yet you might like to check it--it's quite an extensive article
with detailed charts. Aloha! -- Leon James (DrDriving)
Actually the document address is at:
http://safety.fhwa.dot.gov/factsfigs/dsweek/survey.htm
And yes that is mine, originally published in my congressional testimony:
http://DrDriving.org/articles/testimony.htm Now
published in my new book:
Leon James and Diane Nahl. (2000)
ROAD RAGE AND AGGRESSIVE
DRIVING: Steering Clear of Highway Warfare. Prometheus
Books: Amherst,
NY). And Yes, you have my permission to reprint it. And
yes, I'd like a copy of
the issue. Aloha!
Wednesday, 23 August 2000
Subject: Re: Road Rage
Leon -- Thanks so much.-- Bob
Wednesday, 23 August 2000
Subject: dream research car
Hi Max, here's a dream research car FHA scientists are
using. http://www.tfhrc.gov/pubrds/janpr/vehicle.htm
Wouldn't be nice to have a grant that would allow us to
have one too? If you have time to visit our site, here's
an article that might help
you orient.
Aloha!
Leon James
DrDriving
Wednesday, 23 August 2000
Subject: Driving with kindness
Dear Doctors; I have to give a 45 min lecture to the women
of my church on random acts of kindness. I was wondering if you wouldn't mind giving me
permission to read some of your emailed messages about random acts of kindness people have
done or received. I am scheduled to give this lecture on Sept. 7th 2000. Please let me
know as soon as possible so I can prepare for the event. Thank you. -- Amee
Hi Amee; yes you have our permission to quote from our site
to your group. And in case you're not aware, you might like to quote from our Driver and
Angel story posted at our Christ Against Road Rage site here:
http://DrDriving.org/articles/christ.htm
Aloha!
Wednesday, 23 August 2000
Subject: Liz Stevens needs info ASAP
Dr. Nahl; I'm finishing up the article, but can't quite
pinpoint the Webpage on your site that lists states that have passed aggressive driving
legislation. Can you help me out with a list (ideally) or an approximate number?
Many thanks -- Liz
The site where we list the bills is here:
http://DrDriving.org/legislation/bill.html
To make it more convenient, we will paste it also below:
Dr. Driving's Summary of
Legislative Bills on Aggressive Driving
Based on a report by the National Conference of State
Legislatures
Arizona HB2311 Approved by the governor May 26, 1998
Classifies aggressive driving as a class 1 misdemeanor and
requires drivers convicted of the offense to attend driver training and education. Defines
aggressive driving as occurring when a driver:
1. speeds
2. commits two or more listed offenses that
include failing to obey a
3. traffic control device
4. drives over the "gore" area entering
or exiting a highway
5. drives recklessly
6. passes a vehicle on the right by traveling off
the pavement
7. changes lanes erratically
8. follows too closely
9. fails to yield right of way
10.
is an immediate hazard to another person or vehicle.
Connecticut HB5267 and HB5675
Allows the commissioner of Motor Vehicles to require a
driver with two or more moving violations in one year to attend a class about controlling
aggressive driving. Creates a penalty for aggressive driving of not more than $250 and a
30-day drivers license suspension. Aggressive driving is defined as:
1. driving in a manner that evidences a pattern of
dangerous conduct
2. contributing to the likelihood of a collision
or necessitating evasive action by another operator of a motor vehicle to avoid a
collision.
3. driving recklessly
4. failing to stop when directed by a police
officer
Hawaii SB2054
The offense is punishable by a fine of not less than $200
nor more than $2,500 and jail time for not less than one month nor more than one year. The
court will assess five points against the driving record of people convicted of this
offense. Creates the offense of aggressive driving that includes operating a vehicle:
1. In a contentious or antagonistic manner that
endangers the safety of another or of property
2. With a willful and wanton disregard for the
life, limb or property of another
3. While either the driver or a passenger is
brandishing a firearm, or any object similar in appearance, in such a manner as to
reasonably induce fear in the mind of another
4. In a threatening or intimidating manner with
intent to cause another motorist to lose control or be forced off the highway.
Illinois HB2509 Passed the House March 27, 1998
Aggressive driving is a class B misdemeanor and a second
offense is a class A misdemeanor. Road rage violations result in mandatory drivers license
revocation.
1. Creates the offense of road rage for any person
who intentionally drives a vehicle, with malice, in such a manner as to endanger the
safety or property of another.
2. Aggravated road rage occurs when the violation
results in great bodily harm or disfigurement to another and is a class 4 felony.
3. Also creates the offense of aggressive driving
when a person operates a vehicle carelessly or heedlessly in disregard for the rights of
others, in a manner that endangers or is likely to endanger any property or person, or
committing three or more traffic offenses.
Maryland HB292 and HB294 and HB989
Requires the Motor Vehicle administrator to assess points
for multiple violations committed by an aggressive driver. Creates the offense of
aggressive driving when a person
1. drives a motor vehicle in a deliberately
discourteous, intolerant, and impatient manner that evidences a pattern of dangerous
conduct contributing to the likelihood of a collision or necessitating evasive action by
another driver of a motor vehicle to avoid a collision.
2. is convicted of four or more violations
occurring at the same time or three violations with one of the offenses being exceeding
the speed limit by at least 30 mph.
Requires curriculum in driver improvement courses to
address aggressive driving:
1. to raise awareness of the behavior
2. modify aggressive driving behavior
3. provide information on alternative methods for
dealing with impatience, frustration, anger and intolerance on the roads.
Nebraska LB1188 and LR 373 and LR 391
Amends the offense of reckless driving to include
1. driving in a threatening or intimidating manner
2. flashing headlights
3. honking the horn
4. following too closely.
5. pointing a firearm or weapon while driving
New York AB8817/S5959, AB9713, AB10037, SB 6956/AB11118,
SB 7328, and SB 7451/AB10968
Requires pre-licensing education about aggressive driving,
provides for driver's license suspension or revocation for violations and prohibits a
reduction in insurance premiums for any course which fails to address aggressive driving.
Classifies aggressive driving as a class E felony.
Requires aggressive driving education as a prerequisite for
obtaining a drivers license. Creates the offense of aggressive driving that includes:
1. operating a vehicle in a reckless manner that
creates a substantial risk of serious physical injury to another
2. displaying a weapon or what appears to be a
weapon in such a manner to place another person in reasonable fear of injury or death
3. operating a vehicle in such a manner as to
place another in reasonable fear of physical injury or death
4. driving with intent to harass, annoy or alarm
another person in a manner contrary to law
5. changing lanes or speed in a manner that serves
no legitimate purpose and creates a substantial risk of injury or death to another
6. recklessly creating a substantial risk of
serious injury or death or driving with intent to place another in fear of injury or death
7. intentionally displaying a weapon with intent
to harass or alarm another, intentionally causing a collision
8. commits criminally aggressive driving and
causes serious physical injury or death
9. commits criminally aggressive driving for the
second time in five years
Requires that pre-licensing and defensive driving courses
devote a minimum
of 15 minutes of instruction to road rage awareness. Topics
to be covered include:
1. the hazards of driving while under the
influence of "road rage,"
2. the sanctions for road rage related violations
3. biological and medical effects of the
development and expression of road rage.
Virginia HB895, HB1309/SB546, HB896, and HJR169 Signed
by the governor on March 13, 1998.
Aggressive driving constitutes a misdemeanor punishable by
a fine of not less than $200 nor more than $2,500 and jail time for no less than one month
nor more than one year, 48 hours of which will be a minimum mandatory sentence.
Requires drivers education programs offered through the
school system to include instruction concerning aggressive driving. Creates an aggressive
driving offense defined as:
1. operating a vehicle with a wanton disregard for
the life, limb, or property of another
2. driving and brandishing a firearm or weapon in
such a manner as to reasonably induce fear in the mind of another
3. operating a vehicle in a threatening or
intimidating manner with the intent to cause others to lose control or be forced off the
highway.
4. operating a vehicle with a reckless disregard
for the rights of others or in a manner that endangers any property or person
5. committing any two or more violations in a
single act or series of acts in close proximity to another vehicle
6. changing lanes unsafely
7. following too closely
8. failing to yield
9. speeding
10.
driving too fast for conditions
11.
failing to signal and racing
Washington SB6708
The first violation is a misdemeanor and carries a fine of
not less than $350 nor more than $5,000 and jail time of a minimum of 24 hours. A second
violation in a five-year period is a gross misdemeanor with penalties of two days in jail
and a fine of not less than $500 nor more than $5,000. (Died in rules committee). Creates
the offense of aggressive driving and defines it as:
1. committing any two or more acts of aggressive
driving within five consecutive miles in a manner that intimidates or threatens another
person
2. failing to obey traffic control devices
3. passing improperly
4. following too closely
5. changing lanes improperly
6. failing to yield right of way
7. signaling improperly
8. overtaking and passing a school bus
9. speeding
10.
stopping on the roadway
11.
driving with wheels off the roadway
12.
throwing glass or other sharp objects on to the road.
Additional lists will be found in this file:
http://DrDriving.org/legislation/tee_cards.htm
Thursday, 24 August 2000
Subject: Re: ny times possible story
hi, i'm a regular contributor to the new York times who has
written on health and psychology issues. the science time’s health editor is
interested in a story on road rage. however, i need one factoid to convince her. I heard
that "road rage" was entered officially as a clinical diagnosis in the dsm-iv.
or that the American psychiatric association has someone officially accepted the term. is
that correct? -- Perry Garfinkel
Mr. Garfinkel, I know it has been PROPOSED for inclusion
in DSM etc. Let me research it and I'll get back to you TODAY. Aloha!
Mr. Garfinkel, I had our university librarian check the
latest copy of DSM-IV and there are no entries for Driving, Road Rage, Aggressive Driving.
Of course this is no surprise since it was published in 1994 and road rage only then
started to get discussed. The new edition has not come out and it is not known whether or
not they will include road rage or other driving issues. Hope this settles it for you. If
relevant, you can mention our new book published this month (now in bookstores) that
discusses the psycho-legal relating to road rage. The book title and publisher is listed
below. Aloha!
Thursday, 24 August 2000
Subject: Radio request for Today
Hi my name is Kimyla. I am the exec. producer
for On Your Side Radio based out of Dallas, Texas. This evening we are doing a story
on rage... including road rage and were wondering if you could join us. I have
a tight deadline to book folks, 3pm central time. If you are interested could you
please call me at zyz. Actually if you could let me know either way
that would be wonderful. We are a radio show and an internet TV shows as well.
You can learn more about us at www.onyoursideradio.com.
-- Kimyla
Thursday, 24 August 2000
Subject: road rage
I am attempting to write a research paper (25 pages in
length) asking the question: Can the increase in road rage be related to the increase in
work stress? Would you be able to direct me to information? Thank you, -- David
Try these two files:
http://DrDriving.org/articles/rr.htm
||
http://DrDriving.org/articles/driving_psy.htm
Aloha!
Thursday, 24 august 2000
Subject: re: ny times possible story
I will definitely want to interview you. But first i need
this factoid. My recollection is this was approved by the am. Psych. Assn. Within a year.
Any ideas who i should call at the apa? I'll try elsewhere too. I'll keep you email and if
i get go-ahead have book etc sent to me...thanks for the reply -- Perry
Hello Mr. Garfinkel, As far as contacting the APA, here
are some possibilities: Mailing Address & Phone Numbers American Psychological
Association; 750 First Street, NE Washington, DC 20002-4242.
Media Find press releases, position papers, and
information for the media at http://www.apa.org/releases/
or write to publiccom@apa.org. Write to webmaster@apa.org for web site questions;
letters.monitor@apa.org for letters to the Monitor editor; and public.affairs@apa.org for
Public Affairs.
Media Referral Service APA can provide referrals for the
news media to experts in a wide variety of issues. Please see http://www.apa.org/releases/mrs.html for
more information.
This information comes from this Web site: http://www.apa.org/about/contact.html
However they may not know the answer either. It would
take someone on the inside of the clinical division to know what they're in the process of
considering or recommending. I will ask around and let you know if I come across
something.
I have asked Prometheus Books to mail you a copy of our
book. In the meantime, you can see selections of the book chapters at our Web site:
http://DrDriving.org/articles/book_toc.htm
Our congressional testimony is posted here:
http://DrDriving.org/articles/testimony.htm For
interviews with me and my co-author Dr. Diane Nahl you can call us both at:
808-261-2382 We're available Mo-Fr 2:30 to 5:30 PM NY time. If you know in advance, email
us the day before, if not, just call. Aloha!
Thursday, 24 August 2000
Subject: DSM-V and Road Rage?
Tony, A NY Times reporter asked me this morning whether
APA is planning to recommend Road Rage for the new DSM (not listed now in DSM-IV published
in 1994). Can you think of someone who might know this? I don't think calling APA
administration would give us the answer, but some individual who is on the clinical
division committee for DSM--I assume there must be. – Leon
I will find some names for you to call -- Anthony
Thursday, 24 August 2000
Subject: Car cost versus Level of education
Please send me any statistics you may have related to how
educated a car owner is compared to the cost of their vehicle. In the meanwhile
please visit my discussion thread at:
Site You will
be amused if not amazed at the hostility of some of the participants. Please let me know
about any statistics that you dig up. – Chris (aka Zenster)
Friday, 25 August 2000
Subject: Re: NY Times story
Thank you for all this. I’ll get back to you. –
Perry
Saturday, 26 August 2000
Subject: tires
I would like information automobile tires. Their
safety, wear index, Speed and heat, blowouts, etc.
Dr. Driving passed on your request about tries. You need
to be more specific
in your question. – MrTraffic
Friday, 25 August 2000
Subject: graduate student
Do you have any information about teen male drivers with
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder? I am looking at the accident/injury rate
difference between drivers on medication therapy and those who are not. Thanks |