In today's NST report on a road rage incident resulting in the death of a motorist, there is a crucial lesson for all of us.
In the case that occurred over four years ago in August, the other motorist was found guilty of causing the death and was sentenced to 16 years in jail.
The stark lesson from this tragic event is that we must always remain calm while driving on the roads, even under the most trying circumstances.
The Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) conducts regular surveys on road safety issues, including road rage incidents.
In some surveys, it was found that 63 per cent of Malaysian drivers admitted to experiencing road rage or aggressive behaviour on the road in the past year. Road rage-related offences accounted for approximately 15 per cent of all traffic violations in the last year.
Several factors contribute to this phenomenon.
Traffic congestion is one such factor. In our vibrant cities, it is common to see commuters stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic, causing them to become irritable and prone to road rage.
In such cases, patience is a rare commodity.
Drivers who are in a hurry may become agitated by even the slightest delay on the road.
The anonymity of being inside a vehicle can lead to dehumanisation.
Drivers may forget that the person in the other car is also a fellow human being, thus leading to rude behaviour.
Some motorists treat the road like a race track.
Such aggressive behaviour can easily escalate into road rage incidents.
Experiencing or perpetrating road rage can lead to chronic stress, affecting one's physical and mental health.
Engaging in road rage can result in fines, license suspensions, or even jail, as in the most recent case.
While we need harsher penalties for road bullies and stricter road traffic regulations and enforcement, there are also softer ways to help motorists temper their behaviour on the highways and byways.
Drivers should be encouraged to practice deep breathing, listen to calming music, or use mindfulness techniques to cope with traffic stress.
Public awareness campaigns to promote courteous driving are essential.
Additionally, more investments in infrastructure and public transportation that can reduce congestion and frustration are needed.
Finally, we should not take the law into our own hands, as the consequences can be dire, as clearly evidenced in the most recent court case.
TAN SRI LEE LAM THYE
CHAIRMAN
ALLIANCE FOR A SAFE COMMUNITY