Mastering the Wheel: How to Keep Calm and Drive Safely in Traffic

Navigating urban traffic, especially during peak hours, can be a daunting experience. The pressure of being caught in a sea of vehicles can trigger a range of negative emotions, potentially leading to reckless driving behaviors and accidents. It is crucial to prioritize emotional control while driving to ensure the safety of yourself and those around you.

Why Emotional Control is Key to Safe Driving

Elina Raharisti Rufaidhah, a psychologist from Sukoharjo, highlights the critical role of emotional regulation in safe driving. "Rush hour commutes, school drop-offs, and daily commutes often leave individuals feeling rushed and stressed, potentially impairing their thinking abilities and making it challenging to remain calm. This is why practicing emotional control is essential to maintain a clear mind behind the wheel," she emphasizes.

A calm and composed mindset fosters a positive driving experience. However, failing to manage emotions effectively can escalate the situation. "It increases the likelihood of getting into an accident, making impulsive decisions, or even panicking and fleeing the scene of an accident," explains Rufaidhah.

Sony Susmana, Training Director at Safety Defensive Consultant Indonesia, further emphasizes the importance of emotional control. "Uncontrolled behavior often arises from poorly managed emotions. It can lead to impulsive decisions that are often ineffective, especially in situations that demand quick thinking, like driving," he explains.

Susmana warns that driving with uncontrolled emotions can lead to dangerous situations: "The risk of an accident is significantly higher if you're driving while emotional. This means you're struggling to manage anger, sadness, disappointment, or other strong feelings," he says.

Practical Strategies for Maintaining Composure on the Road

Both experts agree that maintaining composure while driving is essential. Sony recommends: "Avoid overthinking while driving, manage your time to avoid rushing, and choose routes that minimize the chances of traffic jams or delays." He also suggests taking breaks to calm down if you feel overwhelmed by stress.

By incorporating these strategies into your driving habits, you can cultivate a safer and more enjoyable driving experience for yourself and others on the road. Remember, the road is a shared space, and maintaining emotional control behind the wheel is crucial for everyone's safety.