Seattle drivers know that navigating the city can be overwhelming at times. Traffic never seems to lighten up and driving cautiously isn't always an option. You must always, always, always pay attention to the other drivers on the road...which begs the question: why is road rage so bad in Seattle? Let's find out.
Why Is Road Rage So Bad in Seattle?
Seattle has a serious and growing traffic problem. Too many people. Too much construction. Not an ample amount of roads. With lots of traffic and similar issues, comes distracted driving. Distracted drivers are everywhere in our great city and we've all been guilty. Whether you've fiddled with your stereo at a stop light, checked your makeup in the mirror, or responded to a text during a slow down, you've been a culprit of distracted driving.
How Does Distracted Driving Lead to Road Rage?
Let's face it, it's impossible to drive 100% safely unless the task of driving has your full attention. All non-driving related activities, especially texting, put you at a higher risk of crashing-and also can annoy and trigger your fellow commuters. No one likes to be stuck in traffic and deal with another driver who is not paying attention. Road rage is inevitable. (Unless you invest in the 2019 Subaru Forester equipped with DriverFocus-but you can read more on that here.)
More on Seattle's Distracted Driving Law
Distracted driving hit an all-time high in Washington in 2018-which is why the state implemented the Distracted Driving Law. Washington's newest distracted driving law states drivers cannot use any electronic device-including cell phones, tablets, laptop computers, and personal gaming systems-while behind the wheel. If you're caught? Expect a fine of $136 for a first offense and a fine of $234 for a second offense within five years.
How to Protect Yourself (And Your Subaru) From Road Rage
Losing your cool isn't worth losing your life. We've all had that moment when someone cuts us off and we feel like ramming right into their tail pipe-but that isn't smart. When you're in a messy traffic situation and start to feel road rage creeping up on you, try these tips instead.
Don't engage
First and foremost, don't engage with angry drivers. If someone speeds past you in an aggravated rage, let them. Engaging with other distraught drivers is how accidents happen.
Don't cause an accident
Consider whether you've done something to annoy the driver behind you, beside you, or in front of you. If so, adjust your driving accordingly. Feel yourself getting a little angry? Just breathe. If you're doing all the right things, but the drivers around you still seem hostile, go back to step one-and don't engage. Rarely use your horn and avoid making angry gestures.
Create distance
If you see other road-raged drivers interacting with one another, give yourself some space. Move over if someone is tailgating you. Creating distance between your car and the angry drivers can help to keep you safe.
According to Geico, aggressive driving plays a role in 66% of all traffic fatalities. Don't let yourself (or your Subaru) be a victim of road rage gone wrong.
Have an Auto Accident in Seattle? Call Suburb Service ASAP
Find yourself in a little fender bender because of Seattle traffic? No worries, the team at Suburb Service is always prepared to help. We offer maintenance and repair services for all types of Subaru models in and around the Seattle area. You can schedule a regular maintenance check-up today or, if your Subaru is giving you trouble, you can call us at (206) 705-8695 to schedule a repair. Show your Subaru some love.