Report from Murdoch Police Station 4 August 2010

A car comes racing up behind you with the driver waiving their arms in angry frustration.  They have three lanes to choose from, but gesture for you to get out of ‘their’ lane.  You move aside to avoid any further provocation. The driver goes racing past but not before pulling up next to you and giving you a few words of unfriendly advice.

How quickly this scenario can change.  That warm feeling you had a minute ago quickly becomes a tight sickening knot in your stomach.  Unfortunately, too many of us have been victims of such behaviour to varying degrees.  Although many people wouldn’t want to admit it, there is a surprisingly high number of people who at some point in their driving lives have been that arm waver or fist shaker.

Before you let the frustration bubble into overt aggression, think about what it is you are really getting angry about. Who cares if the car in front didn’t go through the amber light that you thought you could make as well? Does it really matter that traffic is flowing a little slower that you would like? If you actually sat down and thought about what it is people seem to get so worked up about, especially when you consider it next to other world issues, it would become totally insignificant.  

It is time for us all to think about others on the road and show a little more courtesy and patience. It costs us nothing to show kindness and patience towards others and the rewards are so enormous. The costs of poor behaviour on the other hand can be considerable for all involved.

The best course of action if you are on the receiving end of such behaviour is not to react to the taunting and aggression. As with any conflict situation the ‘winner’ is always the one who walks away. Please report any incidents of road rage involving inappropriate driving or other criminality to your local police or Crime Stoppers on 1300 333 000.

Murdoch Police are currently investigating a number of road rage incidents that have had a significant impact on the victims. Some of those frustrated drivers now under investigation will soon have to explain themselves to a magistrate.

The Murdoch Police Station is open Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 4.00pm but our officers patrol this area 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Please remember that if you need police assistance contact 131 444, or if you have information regarding any criminal activity contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 where your identity can remain confidential.  Save 000 for life threatening emergencies only.

Regards,

Sergeant Neil Morton-Smith, Murdoch Police Station