Emotions and Driving

1
Chapter 7

• Emotions and Driving

2
Effects of Emotions

• Emotions effect our thoughts and actions
• We drive as we are

3
Two Mental Effects of Emotion

• Distractions from the driving task
• Reaction to events around use.
• If we are upset, we tend to react more
  aggressively

4
Physical Effects of Emotions

• Heart rate increases
• Digestion slows down
• Increase in adrenaline
• Muscle tightens

5
Emotions that effects Concentration

• Anger
• Fear
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Discouragement
• Sorrow
• Even excitement can be a distraction

6
Reduce the Effects of Emotions

• Recognize in yourself when youre not at your
  best. Let someone else drive
• Recognize other highway users are emotional
  people too
• Drive in an organize manner. Use all the correct
  driving procedures. Concentrate on your driving

7
Know your limitations

• The goal of emotional control is to recognize and
  understand your mental and physical limitation

8
Reduce the Risk of Road Rage

• Do not challenge other drivers
• Do not make eye contact
• Get help. Dial 911 or go to police station
• Do not get out of your car
• Keep in mind the other person may be armed

9
Risk takers in a Car

• Speeding
• Following too close
• Distractions radio, CD player, cell phone
• Vehicle type
• Vehicle conditions
• Drag racing
• Assuming right of way at intersections
• Passing other vehicles
• Not using restraint systems
• Railroad grade crossing
• Driving while impaired

10
Lifetime Risk

• The more you take a given risk, the more likely
  it is to catch up with you

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Reduce Risk while Driving

• Select a safer car
• Slowdown
• Increase following distance
• Driver sober
• Wear restraints properly
• Use headlights day and night
• Avoid peer pressure
• Select the proper lane for travel
• Avoid high congestion areas

12
Outcomes of Unsafe Situations

• An accident with its consequences death injury,
  property damage
• A near accident (near miss) which could be a
  learning experience
• A potential accident with no apparent
  consequences here we learn that risks have
  little or no consequences. So we are more likely
  to do it again