Defusing road rage: Staying alive on Houston's angry highways
HOUSTON (KTRK) -- We've all been there: Angry on one of Houston's freeways or streets. How do you dial down your temper? How do you stop yourself from getting road rage?
From the high-pitched screams, flying fists and wheels raging in reverse, these are the rude streets of Houston.
Road rage expert Scott Morofsky says rage, by definition, is an explosive angry fury.
First things first: If you find yourself getting heated, Morofsky says breathe.
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"Taking a deep breath. As I call the acronym, W.A.I.T. I'm getting behind the wheel of a deadly weapon. What am I thinking?" Morofsky explained.
Next, put a reminder in your ride of what's really important, like a picture of your kid on the visor. Maybe a religious memento on the dash -- something to get you think rationally.
Morofsky asked, "What would that person who cares if you live or die say to you?"
Do not get out of your car. If things do escalate, you don't want to find yourself face to face with the jerk who cut you off. Think creatively in tense situations. Don't be afraid to say you're sorry, even if you did nothing wrong.
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"Bite your tongue. Wait a second. I can save my life by saying I'm sorry?" Morofsky said.
After all, you don't know if the person you're fighting with is armed and ready to up the ante.
"Are you willing to take a gun with you? Are you willing to shoot this person in defense? Are you willing to go to jail from 10 to 25 to life?" Morofsky said.
The lesson? Defuse what's happening before it's too late.
