25-30 years ago, when I first floated the concept of doing a few segments about “road rage” for a motoring based television show that I used to anchor, the reaction was blank stares. From not just the others at the studio but also from the guests I proposed to invite for a panel discussion.
Every which way, the panel discussion happened, though I do not recall what transpired exactly. Every which way, again, it was not a big issue then, the more pressing issues were pressure horns, mechanical failures, driving/riding under the influence, adulterated fuel, stolen vehicles and of all things, joy rides on “borrowed” motor vehicles.
I then wrote a few articles in an assortment of print publications on the subject. And that was that. It either wasn’t much of an issue or there weren’t so many cameras around or people either fought and then the wars on the roads got separated or they simply moved on. Denting/painting was so much cheaper then, too, right?
Today, again, especially in cities where there is a shortage of good public transport, but elsewhere also, road rage is probably the biggest risk I envisage on our roads-to the extent that, wherever possible, I now use public transport. But that’s not a solution for everyone, right?
I mean, even whilst walking on the streets - pavements are history in and around where I perambulate - people can get enraged. Or other living beings for that matter.
Every which way, yet again - keep your head down, move on, the other entities may usually also opt to do the same if you let them feel that they have won.
Let me quote two specific guidances from “ZuckerDoctor” (Twitter which is now X.com)
“This may sound odd, maybe even cowardly but whether it is a person riding on the wrong side of the road or a hawker blocking footpaths, if someone is unabashedly breaking laws and the law enforcers aren't doing anything about it, it is best not to confront them in your personal capacity. They're all capable of committing far bigger crimes than the ones they're already committing.”
“With every road rage incident you will watch or read about, you will realise that irrespective of who is at fault, it is not your job to confront a lawbreaker. You need to swallow your pride and move on. If the authorities aren't bothered, you definitely shouldn't be the one risking your life to educate those who break rules with impunity.”
Really not much more to add to the advice provided above, except -
For many gig workers, as well as those who make a livelihood driving public transport / cabs / autos etcetc., life is already very tough. Cut them some slack. Actually, cut them a lot of slack. The Root Cause Analysis point to the System. Not the individual.
A 2-wheeler/3-wheeler/cab/small truck/micro-mini pax vehicle is often the most important purchase of the driver. Or even their family. Mostly, we have no idea of what is going through their mind on matters like challans, EMIs or more. I have seen that part of life. It is tough.
In addition, there are those who are under the impression that a particular part of town or a stretch of street is their turf, often also the bane of contention of gang or other territorial flashpoints. “Face” becomes important there for them. You and I are just passing through. Nothing to do with them.
Yes, a dashcam is now an almost compulsory fitment, but often it may also record the mistakes you and I have made.
Road rage is now a fact of life. Vagaries of weather make it even worse. If you do get stuck in situations on the roads - move on with bowed head. That is not cowardice. That is common sense.
You can always escalate issues, if you want to, in a legitimate manner, subsequently, when all are safe. But at that moment, move on, please?
Good luck on our roads.