Don't get into a rage; THIS week, Benfield's David Robinson, general manager at Nissan Gateshead offers advice to keep your cool with road bullies

Evening Chronicle (Newcastle, England), June 22, 2007

Byline: Benfield's David Robinson

DAVID says: "Incidents of road rage and bullying range from motorway chases and being followed home to verbal and physical attacks to intimidation.

"It's all too easy to forget, but every car journey brings with it a risk of frustration and conflict - sometimes the most trivial of incidents can spark off a road rage situation.

"A good deal of hostile behaviour from other drivers may be unintentional, after all, we all have bad days. But showing your frustration by making gestures or shouting at another driver could provoke them further. By remaining calm and collected when driving, you will be in a position to give yourself time and space to react to other drivers and their mistakes.

"If someone's driving annoys or irritates you, try not to aggravate the situation by 'educating' them. Remember, it is the job of the police to ensure that drivers abide by the law. It's also a good idea to try and be as courteous a driver as possible, giving way at busy junctions or where traffic lanes merge to avoid frustration on the roads. Patience on the roads can do a lot to alleviate aggressiveness and you will find that road courtesy won't delay your journey very much ."

If a driver does act aggressively towards you, avoid making eye contact, as this can be seen as confrontational and the situation could escalate .

If you think you're being followed, be sure to drive to a public place or a police station before you stop your car, and keep the doors locked.