There is always something interesting that emanates from the Road Safety Knowledge Center when it comes to drivers’ behaviour. A 2015 study concludes that aggressive behavior on the road by one driver causes others to behave in a similar fashion.

The study was released by the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) and the tyre manufacturer Goodyear. It finds that drivers’ behavior on the road trigger what one can describe as a ‘ripple effect’.

In a survey of nearly 9 000 drivers from 15 European countries, 87% of respondents agree that considerate driving by others can prompt them, in turn, to be considerate to other drivers – think of allowing someone to enter the lane in front of you or giving access to change lanes.
Conversely, 55% admitted that when irritated or provoked on the road by one driver, they may be more likely to take it out on another.

The report suggests a ‘simple act of kindness’ or one of aggression can initiate a chain of events. This creates an environment that is either comfortable and safer, or stressful and more dangerous for drivers’.

One wonders if we are to conduct this study in South Africa on drivers’ behaviour what the result will be? No doubt many would cite taxis as reasons why they can’t be nice. Many believe any compromise is a ‘weakness’ which other drivers will take advantage of.

MasterDrive have long held the belief and practiced ‘DRIVE NICE, IT’S CONTAGIOUS’. We actively encourage drivers to do so – to all.

Till next time – drive nice and be nice!