Have you got behind the wheel when you were sad? Maybe you were angry and thought a ride around the block would cool you down?

A recent Virginia Tech study found that emotional drivers are nearly ten times more likely to crash [Source].

Safe driving comes from a good mental state; so the worries of Christmas or an upcoming event can be extremely distracting.

To become a safer driver in times of high emotion, you may wish to:

• Try some breathing techniques. Count to three and take long deep breaths to try and dispel any negativity.
• Listen to music. You could play calming music – maybe try some classical music or perhaps put your favourite album on. Just pick something that will take your mind off how you’re feeling.
• Focus all of your attention on driving. If you can’t stop driving to have a break, it may help to immerse yourself in what you’re doing. Think about what speed you’re doing, what exit you need to take at the next roundabout – this will make sure you’re driving safely.
• Slow down. In some instances you may be feeling extremely irrational and take this out on other road users. It may be best to try slowing down (to an appropriate speed) to ensure you and everyone else gets to their destination.

Driving when emotional can sometimes be unavoidable – your best option is to try to remove any negative thoughts and focus on what you’re doing.

• Be safe and book one of Stanley Travel’s taxi services. Find out more via stanley-travel.com/taxis or call 01207 230 000 (Stanley), 01207 591 000 (Consett), 0191 306 0606 (Durham).