ST. LOUIS — Maybe you’re thinking I’ll try kindness when the other drivers try it.
As the 5 On Your Side traffic guy, I’ve received hundreds of emails about the “other driver." Who doesn’t have a couple of stories about some crazy driver to share if the topic comes up?
And you don’t need me to tell you at the heart of those near-misses is a real danger and an “every man for himself” philosophy, not to mention lots of stress. It’s getting pretty perilous out there.
Accidents are increasing, crashes in work zones are up and pedestrian fatalities are high. Maybe it’s time for a reset.
My mom always preached leaving early “so you won’t need to rush … and then you won’t be late.” I heard her say it like a thousand times, and always thought it was about not being late. But she was really saying, don’t rush, get there alive.
Most crashes happen because we’re in a hurry, we’re distracted or both.
I’ve been in fender-benders before. More than being distracted, I was trying to make up time to get somewhere and not be late. Luckily, no one got hurt. But all of that rushing from light to light and over the speed limit was to prove to my boss (or appointment) that I was considerate enough to leave my house at the appropriate time, when really I hadn’t. That’s not very kind.
So, when you think about trying kindness on your commute, what comes to the top of your mind? Maybe it’s letting another car in front of you when they’re trying to get over or not blasting your horn at a stop light and making everyone look. For sure that’s part of it, but the true kindness comes before you even get in the car. Not getting yourself into a blood-boiling rush right off the bat is not only kinder to the other drivers but also is a kindness to yourself, and to the people who love you and want to see you home safely at the end of the day.
Join me in reminding yourself to leave 15 minutes earlier than you normally would. For me, it helps to tell myself my 8 a.m. appointment actually starts at 7:45. Thanks, Mom.
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