Road Rage has differing degrees of severity and can be caused by a variety of factors. The key reason for Road Rage seems to be an already irritated driver encountering an irritating event. These events are usually misunderstandings that push the already irritated driver “over the edge”. Certainly this is no excuse but it does help to explain why Road Rage happens.

Other contributing factors to Road Rage can include:

• Environmental Issues such as heat.
• Bad day at the office
• A bad situation on the home front
• Stress due to bills and other money related issues
• Lack of sleep
• Running late
• Feeling rushed

Of course there are other issues that can contribute to drivers loosing their cool and composure. This is what makes recognising who is prone to Road Rage and who may not be all the more difficult since it is so personalised. What one can do is recognise these issues within themselves and act accordingly. Leave early to avoid running late, get enough sleep, or relax before getting in the car are just some suggestions.

Recognising Road Rage when it occurs is simple enough and if you are victim of it you will definitely know. For the sake of those lucky enough to have avoided such confrontations some signs of Road Rage are:

• Rude Gestures. This tends to be the most common and serves only to escalate matters.
• Honking horns
• Throwing projectiles
• Intentionally ramming into the other car or even the driver should he/she step out.
• Physically damaging the car
• Murder!

There have been several instances where Road Rage has escalated into the use of violent and deadly force over the fact that someone may or may not have cut someone else off.

As mentioned earlier misunderstandings are really among the leading causes of Road Rage. An inattentive driver turns without signalling which just may be enough to make the driver riding behind that car to become irate. That driver who was already over heated and stressed is now extremely angry and acts out. The driver making the turn might have simply forgotten to turn on the turn signal or not realised how close the turn off was.

Recognising the signs of being stressed or tired and acting accordingly is not enough to avoid Road Rage, though it certainly is a large and important step. Remember that you are sharing the roads with countless other drivers and as humans we all make mistakes. Give the benefit of the doubt to those drivers. That guy that turned without signalling more then likely did not do it on purpose or with malicious intentions. The same goes for that woman who cut you off on the interstate or that person just sitting at the green light.

Be understanding of your fellow man and do not just fly off the handle. Keeping your cool is another great suggestion. At the end of the day, as long as you make it home safely, that careless guy who does not understand what a blinker is for is not going to ruin your life. It is far better to keep your cool and remain calm then to act out in anger and cause matters to worsen.

Road Rage is a serious matter that deserves serious contemplation each time you are behind the wheel. If you do find yourself quick to anger while driving then pull of to the side if you can, take a deep breath and count to ten. Listen to relaxing and soothing music and leave your stress behind are also some really great suggestions to help you prevent Road Rage.

Many driving schools offer tips, advice, and even courses on how to deal with Road Rage. The driving instructors at the school understand the underlying causes of Road Rage and can offer drivers ways to overcome it and to handle it should they find themselves a victim. Even seasoned drivers are encouraged to take any Road Rage courses available in an effort to prevent Road Rage.

Every area has different standards and requirements for getting your driver license. Generally, a learner’s permit will only require a computerised knowledge test and the completion of a set amount of driving hours as set by the local regulatory agency. Afterwards, the new driver will have to wait up to one year and the complete an on road driving test to qualify for the full driver’s license.

Now, in Australia there are different steps that need to be taken before acquiring the full or open license. These steps vary state to state and territory to territory but all include; A learner driver license, A Provisional license, stage 1, and A Provisional license, stage 2.

There are tips that can be used in each individual territory and in fact in many other areas and countries in order to successfully prepare for a driving test.

It all starts with knowledge.

The old axiom, knowledge is power holds true in all facets of life including the driving test. Before you can even reach for that license you need to first study the rules of the road. It does not matter if you are getting ready to take the Road Ready Knowledge Test or the Hazard Perception Test, if you do not know the material you will fail it. Failing these test, or any test that is required by your local government can result in penalties and set backs.

Many agencies, like the Australian Transport Safety Bureau, offer booklets for those seeking to take the driving assessment test. In these booklets will be everything you need to know to pass the knowledge portion of the driving exam.

Information that can be found in such booklets includes:

• Road Rules and Laws
• The meanings of various signs and signals
• Common road etiquette
• Advice for different situations such as driving at night, driving in the elements, and others.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Practice is the keyword here and many of those seeking their driver license will soon understand the importance of it. Now many will seek out the advice of parents or guardians and many more will hire a driving instructor to help them out. While parents can provide invaluable insight a good driving instructor will do this and leave out any “helpful shortcuts” that may be illegal.

By practicing, always make sure you are driving with a legally licensed adult; you will begin to understand why certain laws are in place. Practicing is a way to use what you learned from all those booklets in a real world setting where results can be visible. Not only this, but many areas and road authorities require a certain amount of hours of practice before acquiring a driver’s license without that learner’s restriction.

Confidence

By learning the rules and laws of the road and gathering enough practice, you will soon discover that all that initial nervousness has transformed into confidence. It takes a sure and steady hand to drive a car especially in areas that see a high volume of traffic like inner cities and freeways.

In fact, one of the reasons new drivers have to accomplish so much and pass so many tests is to instil that confidence.

By learning the rules of the road and gathering enough practice with help of either parents or driving instructors, those new to the road will find themselves more then capable of passing the driving test.

Where To Look

The best form of advertisement is word of mouth so with this in mind, start your searches by asking around. Recommendations from classmates and friends is a great way to start and can provide some really great insight into which school is right for you. By asking others who have taken lessons you can narrow down your options to just a hand full.

What To Look For

After you have your list of candidates, you can start by whittling that list down even more. While the needs you require from a driving school may differ from that of your peers, you can still use their positive recommendations to your benefit.

You will just have to know what it is you need.

Some questions you may want to ask include:

• Are the instructors reliable?
• Are the instructors flexible? This is especially important if you are only available during a certain time of day or if you find that your schedule is erratic.
• Are the instructors and the school certified?
• Is a car provided?
• Is the car up to code?
• Are the prices fair and reasonable?
• Are the instructors experienced?

While these questions should be asked it is also encouraged to develop your own set of questions that relate to you and your situation. For example, if you do not want to be exposed to cigarette smoke, inquire if the driving school is a non smoking establishment. If you need transportation to the school then make sure that service is provided.

How To Tell If You Made The Right Choice

We all make mistakes from time to time, so it is very well possible that you may choose a driving school that you do not believe is up to your standards. Many driving schools of ill repute will use any tactic they can to get you to sign up remember they are not above lying to get your money. As you search for driving schools you can easily avoid the wrong ones by knowing what it is you are looking for from the school itself. Sure, you have your specified criteria, but even a bad school can work around your schedule. It is only the right schools that can meet your standards along with deliver on their promise.

When you talk with the driving school and the driving instructor inquire about the following:

Success Rate

Experience

Certification

Length of Lessons

You will want a driving school that caters to what you needs and employs experienced driving instructors. In short, the right driving school is the one that can get you your licence; there is more to it of course. While flipping through the phone book for the cheapest or the most expensive driving school might work, if Lady Luck is on your side, a more controlled process is really the best way.

Of course, before you are even allowed behind the wheel you have to learn how it works. For those approaching that golden age where you will be allowed to legally drive, or for anyone needing to finally get their driver’s license, a Driving School is an invaluable asset. While locating a driving school is a fairly easy affair, finding a good one tends to be more difficult.

While you may believe that one driving school is just the same as another, you could be in for a rude wake up call when you go to take your test. A driving school and their instructors need to be certified by the government agency that overseas matters of traffic and traffic law. This certification insures that the school and instructors have taken the required training which is aimed at better helping you achieve your goal; that drivers’ license. Aside from whatever certification required, a driving school needs to meet other standards including;

• Experience
A Driving instructor needs to have several years of real world driving experience. This way, the instructor understands the roads, has what it takes to be a good driver, and knows what to expect. Not only should the instructor be experienced, but the driving school as well.

• Reliable Car
More then likely, if you are looking for a driving school, you have yet to buy your own vehicle. Many driving schools will offer the use of a school automobile to aid you in getting your license. This car should be road legal, safe, and free from damage.

• Knowledgeable Instructors
The instructors should be knowledgeable in not only the laws but road etiquette and techniques like defensive driving.

Now, after you have completed the driving school and passed the test, you are ready to drive. Well, first you have to get some insurance for that car. First time drivers are often worried that insurance companies will charge higher rates for those first timers. While this may be true, there are a few things that drivers can do to lower that amount.

First, you should know that if you are leasing a vehicle or making payments on a vehicle, the company may require you to hold a certain amount of insurance until you are able to pay off the balance completely. This is to protect their interest more then anything else. Failure to keep the required amount of insurance can result in the repossession of the car so knowing what type of insurance to have and how much you need is vital. If you find yourself in a situation like this you have very little choice but to abide by the requirements of the leasing company.

If you bought the car then you can choose how much insurance to keep on it. Ideally, the insurance of you car should cover any foreseen and unforeseen accidents. Many motorists will choose to keep the minimum amount as required by the law. While this will save money in the short term, if you happen to get into an accident you just may be out more then you had previously imagined. Many times you will be able to receive discounted rates if you took driving lessons some companies may not. It will be important to discuss any kind of discounts or rate cuts with the insurance company.

Now, some of the largest concerns involve “What If” scenarios. These scenarios are always hovering in the back of every driver’s minds so it is not unusual to find yourself worrying as well; after all you are now a driver. The key is to be prepared for these scenarios so you are equipped to handle them if they should happen. While it is virtually impossible to prepare for every single “What If” situation you can prepare for some.

Flat Tires

Flat tires are a common occurrence but it never ceases to amaze that many drivers are simply not properly equipped with the right tools. Always keep a spare tire or a donut in the trunk of the vehicle. Along with this you will need a car jack and a tire iron.

Break Downs

Whether you have a flat tire, no gas, or some other kind of problem, breaking down on the side of the road is always a cause for concern. For safety reasons you will want to have something to alert other drivers of your presence. Road flares and safety cones are just two items of what you can have in your car for such occasions. If you do break down on a busy road, be careful when setting these precautions. If you feel that you can not do so safely, then turn on your caution lights and get off the road.

Concerns for drivers, especially first time drivers vary from person to person and area to area but are essentially the same. It is important to be prepared for such occasions that cause so much stress and worry which is why a good driving instructor is so important. The right type of insurance will save you money in the short and long term and being properly prepared for anything will save you time and trouble.

Any major mechanical attention for your car should be left to the professionals, but there are a few things that you can accomplish in your own drive way like changing the oil or knowing how to change a tire. By performing these procedures you can save money and instill a greater confidence in yourself.

Changing a tire is a skill that every driver should know. You may not always have the luxury of a gas station or mechanic garage close at hand when it comes time for a tire change. Blow outs and flats are unpredictable but we do know that such bad fortune will occur at the absolute worst times. Make sure you carry a car jack, lug wrench, and a spare tire. The spare can either be a regular tire like the ones already on your car or a donut. The donut is a small tire and is not meant for long distances.

If you find yourself on a roadway with a flat tire, get out of traffic the best you can. This may mean some grunt work as you will probably need to push your car onto a shoulder or into a parking lot. Try to find a flat stable surface which will provide needed support when changing the tire. Be aware of your surroundings. If it is not safe to change the tire then wait. When it is safe, place the jack under the frame close to the tire that you need to change but make sure you place the jack on the metal section of the frame to avoid damage. Before jacking the car off the ground you will want to remove the hubcap and loosen the lug nuts. Lift the car off of the ground and remove the nuts all of the way.

Remove the old tire and place the new tire or the donut on and replace the nuts. Slowly lower the car to the ground and tighten the nuts. Replace the hubcap and place the jack, wrench, and old tire into the truck. Dispose of the tire in a proper location.

Changing a tire fast and efficiently will take practice but as long as you can do it then you will not have to worry about being stranded because of a flat ever again.

Changing the oil is another important skill that drivers should have. The oil is the life blood of the car and should be changed on a regular basis. This information can be found in your car manual. Many people take their cars in for oil changes but knowing how to do it can be empowering and helpful if you just do not have enough money to take it to a service station.

Before you crawl under the car make sure you have the equipment necessary which includes something for the oil to drain into, a new oil filter that will fit your car, and a socket wrench. If necessary raise your car on a flat level surface taking all precautions so it does not fall with you underneath. Open the hood and remove the oil filter cap; this will make the draining much easier. Find the oil plug located underneath your car. You may have to refer to your owner’s manual for this. Place your pan under the plug before removing the bolt. Find the filter, again consult your owner’s manual, and remove it. You may need an oil filter wrench, but in most cases the filter will come off with a little patience and elbow grease.

Replace the oil plug and put in the new oil filter. Using a funnel, add the new oil to the recommended level. You will want to start the car to check for the oil pressure light and to see if any oil is leaking. After that, you are finished.

Many drivers enjoy knowing how to perform basic mechanical upkeep to their cars. This instills them with a sense of pride and self respect since they know that if something should occur, be it a flat tire, or a car needing oil, they can take care of the problem.

So, how does one become a proactive driver? All it takes is time and knowledge.

Defensive driving is a useful skill that is employed by everyone from time to time; however, these cases are often subconscious. You drive at a safe distance from the car ahead of you instead of tailgating in order to allow sufficient time to break should the car ahead brake abruptly. This is an example of defensive driving. The trick is to be aware of such actions and tips and use them in day to day driving. There are several driving schools that will help drivers in using defensive driving techniques to improve their driving skills.

Another attribute of being a proactive driver is the car itself. Keeping the car up to date with any scheduled maintenance is a great way to insure its continued performance. Service your car as soon as any problems arise so that further problems can be avoided. Keep gas in the car and never run on Empty as this is a sure fire way to invite trouble. Drivers should know their vehicles so that they can tell when something is wrong. If your car is acting sluggish or is having a hard time starting you may want to take it to the mechanic instead of waiting to see if the problem works itself out, doing this will surely lead to a break down.

A proactive driver also has tools and equipment necessary for common roadside emergencies. Jumper cables, a jack, flares, and a spare tire are just some of the equipment that should be in your car at all times. Such items will prove invaluable if you ever find yourself on the side of the road at three in the morning with a flat tire. Of course, it is not simply enough that you have such equipment in your car; you must also know how to use it properly. This is extremely helpful for those that find themselves driving long distances alone. A cell phone is another great tool to have; though you should never talk on the cell phone while driving unless it absolutely can not be avoided. An emergency road kit should have most of the equipment you will need but always remain on the look out for anything else that can be of benefit.

Proactive driving is driving with a deeper understanding of what it takes to be a good driver and not just an adequate one. Unlike the stream of cars whose drivers practically go on auto pilot a proactive driver has his or her ears and eyes open and ready for whatever may appear.

A gift to potential drivers and those would-be teachers; driving instructors are ready and willing to take your child or you if should you not know how to drive, out on the road for a hands on experience. Of course you will have to pay these intrepid men and women but it is a small price for peace of mind.

Driving instructors will teach any driver young or old, inexperienced or experienced as long as they are legally capable to drive or are preparing for a driving test. These lessons are a great way for those drivers already issued a license to take a refresher course but are primarily thought of as serving the needs of teenagers on their way to adulthood.

Usually, instructors belong to a driving school but there are independent instructors out there. It is important to find an instructor or a driving school that will be of the most benefit to the new student. Knowing what to look for in instructors and schools will help in avoiding any headaches.

In cases such as this, word of mouth works best. Ask your friends and family if they can recommend a good driving instructor. They will be the first to tell where you should and should not go. After you have narrowed your choice of instructors, call each one and ask a few questions. The first should be something on the lines of “Are you accredited and is the instructor fully qualified?” If so then go ahead and ask as many questions necessary in order for you to feel confident that the instructor you want will be the best one for you. Driving schools and instructors should not mind any questions. Ask about the car used for the lessons and if it is dual controlled. Dual controlled simply means that the Instructor will be able to take control of the car should something happen. If getting to and from the driving school is a problem, ask if they have a pick-up and drop-off service. You will also want to inquire about the pass rate which will be a great indicator of how well the instructor does his job. Other questions can center on the personality of the instructor and if they will be explaining the subtle nuisances of driving. What is taught, where it is taught and if the instructor will be able to explain any concerns about rules and traffic laws are also great questions.

Once you have your driving instructor, be quick to voice any concerns and comments you may have. If your instructor seems impatient or rude you may want to ask about changing instructors. Driving instructors should be calm and understanding, it is your first time after all and they are there to teach and guide you. They should also be well versed in traffic laws and will be able to answer any questions you may have.

Remember, price alone does not denote quality of the service. Do as much research as possible before committing to a driving instructor. It is your money; it would be a shame to waste it.

The elements of rain, fog, and wind are among the most dangerous of Nature’s wrath and if not treated with care result in crashes that take a devastating toll on car and driver. Extra care and extra attention are the tools drivers need in order to combat these problems. Defeating nature may be impossible but surviving it is a matter of precaution.

RAIN IS NOT LIMITED TO THE PLAINS IN SPAIN

It is an easy thing to say; “Don’t drive in the rain if you don’t have to” but when you have to this advice is useless. If you must go forth into that rain storm keep your safety and the safety of those sharing the roads in mind. Your duty does not end when you turn on your windshield wipers.

During rain your visibility will be cut if not dramatically then just enough to make conditions dangerous. Driving with your headlights in even the slightest of drizzle will make your car noticeable to other drivers and the road noticeable to you.

Reduce your speed as your drive in the rain. Just because the speed limit is a certain number does not mean that you must, above all else, reach this number. Speed limits are really a guideline, a recommended speed that will keep traffic moving at a safe and even flow. During a rain shower the roads will be more dangerous so it will be important to drive at a safe speed even if it does not match the numbers on the sign. This is especially vital if the rain follows a dry spell. The collected oil and grease from cars will make the roads slick and make it difficult for the tires to get enough traction. This can result in your car skidding off the road and hydroplaning. Hydroplaning will cause the car to drift until the tires can once again gain traction. If this should happen, it is not advisable to slam on the brakes. Keep the wheel straight and decrease speed until control is regained.

If you find yourself in rain that is excessive then pull to the side of the road at a safe distance and wait it out. It is never a good idea to speed through a puddle as the water may cause severe damages to your car’s engine and you may even become stuck. Use your common sense when driving in the rain and keep alert. This will be a valuable commodity as you travel down the road and through life.

DRIVING IN FOGGY WEATHER

Driving in the fog is an especially dangerous task as the visibility can be non-existent. Though when this happens it is wiser to pull over and wait instead of risking your life and the lives of others in an accident that could have been avoided. However, if you find yourself surrounded by fog and with no other option then to keep driving, do so carefully and slowly.

Use the equipment at your disposal, notably your lights. Never use high beams in the fog as the light will be dispersed in the fog and become useless. Your low beams are best combined with any fog lamps you may have. Often times other drivers will not be able to see your car until they are passing you so your lights will let them know where you are.

Keep your speed slow and steady. Do not brake suddenly and certainly do not reverse. Signal early and brake slowly allowing those behind you time to react accordingly.

Concentration and focus are great allies when driving in fog. You can not be distracted by cell phones, music, or anything else as you navigate the quagmire. Most accidents that occur in fog are fatal. Fog can happen suddenly or slowly so keep aware of your surroundings and any changes in the weather or traffic as it can be an indicator that fog is up ahead.

I HEAR THE WIND AMONG TREES, SO BE CAREFUL DRIVING

Wind can make for some pretty dangerous driving conditions. Oftentimes, high winds are accompanied by other dangerous weather so the risks created by the winds may be overshadowed by the rain or the snow. Larger vehicles like trucks and RVs have the greatest difficulty in high winds as their greater size is more open to the battering effects. However, small cars and light weight vehicles will also need to take precaution.

High winds can kick up at a moment’s notice so it may be tricky gauging when that next burst will come but if you already find yourself in conditions that favor extreme wind then drive at reduced speeds. Be especially mindful of the larger vehicles on the road and give them as much space as possible.

Do not treat high winds lightly; it is just as dangerous of a problem as rain and fog. Take bridges with extra caution and listen out for any weather updates. Those high winds just may signal a severe storm or worse.

Driving in the elements such as rain, fog, or high winds, can be a dangerous task. If done with caution and common sense your trip through these battering elements can be a safe one.

Road safety starts before the car ever leaves the driveway. Make sure the car is in working condition; check the tires, the lights, and the oil for starters. Once in the car, make sure the mirrors are properly adjusted. And of course, buckle that safety belt.

While on the road, keeping safe can be tricky, but if you are able to be aware and mindful this task should become easier. Know the capabilities of the car, such as the capacity for braking and turning. Drive defensively and be cautious at all intersections where most accident happens. Parked cars can be especially dangerous as at any moment a door can open or a car can pull out. Of course, the simple reminders of ‘Don’t Drink and Drive’ and never drive while drowsy will always apply.

If the worse should happen and you find that your car has broken down, road safety can become a matter of extreme importance. Make sure to have a kit with tools and safety triangles in your car. Push the vehicle off the road and stand a good distance away as you wait for help.

Road safety is just a matter of common sense and following the rules and laws already set out that every driver should be adhering to. Keeping the car in proper, working condition, being mindful, and being prepared will aid in safe driving. Other tips can include brushing up on the rules of the road and keeping the car’s maintenance up to date.

Driving schools are beneficial for a number of reasons; most important is the accuracy of lessons given. There are no short cuts or bad habits that pass down to the new drivers, just knowledge and skill. With these schools becoming more and more important, the number of schools in any given area may be dizzying. So, how can anyone make sure that the driving school is a good one?

Accreditation is the most important sign for any excellent driving school. Most states, provinces, and other districts require that driving schools are accredited. But do not let this one fact determine the final decision. Always check whatever licenses and other accreditation that the school must have. If such items are not present in the office, or if the staff and owners are reluctant to show them, hit the road. Official driving schools are proud of their status and will be more than willing to show you that they are responsible and legal. You should visit any facility that you plan on handing over hard earned money to anyways, so this will be the perfect opportunity to see any necessary paperwork.

The driving school’s vehicle should be well maintained with the school name prominently displayed. Inspect the vehicle and make sure that everything is in working condition. Safety is a arge concern and should not be overlooked.

Perhaps the best way to tell if the driving school is one that you would trust; ask questions. Question the owners and the instructors, and if you can find any, former students. Make sure to ask about their insurance, since if they do not have any then you do not want to use that school. Also ask about how much experience the instructor has and what program they had to go through in order to achieve their position. Do not be afraid to ask any other questions that come to mind. More than likely, the driving school will not be insulted and will welcome any inquires.

Finding an excellent driving school may seem like a challenge, but the time and effort is well spent. A good driving school will be able to teach all the rules of the road and empower the driver with the skills and knowledge needed to pass the driving exam.