KUALA LUMPUR: Road users, especially those travelling to their hometowns for Chinese New Year, should plan their journey and manage their emotions before starting on their trip, says the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros).
Its Behavioural Analysis and Education Unit head Maslina Musa said managing emotions among drivers has become increasingly important today as people often feel pressed for time and tend to violate traffic regulations.
“Nowadays, everyone is in a hurry and will (tend) to act recklessly, for example, running traffic lights and driving over the speed limit. That’s when controlling emotions is crucial.
“Road rage will occur if emotions are not managed properly, causing aggressive behaviour and insensitivity to the surrounding conditions, and bringing risks to other road users,” she said during the Bernama TV’s Apa Khabar Malaysia yesterday.
She said besides planning their journey, motorists should expect more time to be spent on the road due to the high traffic volume in conjunction with the festive season.
Maslina said due to this, the role of the front passenger is equally important to ensure that the situation in the vehicle is safe and calm.
“(Front passengers) don’t be an instigator. In event of any accident, focus and calm yourself (as well as the driver), and avoid reacting in a way that is likely to harm all parties.
“You can also chat with the driver about positive things to maintain attention.
“For those with families, help control the children in the back of the car, and ensure that they don’t interfere with driving,” Maslina said.
She also advised all drivers to take time to rest sufficiently before or during the journey at the rest and service (R&R) areas for highway users.
