Road rage can be a dangerous and stressful phenomenon on its own, but when firearms are introduced into the mix, the stakes are raised to a life-or-death level. However, the prevalence of traffic-related gun violence varies from state to state. ConsumerAffairs conducted a study to determine the states with the most and least road rage incidents, with a specific focus on gun violence.
### The Worst Offenders
New Mexico takes the top spot for the worst state in terms of gun-related violence on the road, with 2.08 incidents per 100,000 residents. Following closely behind are the District of Columbia, Tennessee, Wisconsin, Arizona, Texas, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, and Georgia.
### Population Disparities
The population of a state must be taken into consideration when examining gun violence statistics, as it can skew the perceptions. For example, while New Mexico may have a higher rate of incidents per 100,000 residents, it has a much smaller population compared to Texas, which could make it seem less dangerous at first glance.
### Tips for Avoiding Road Rage
ConsumerAffairs offered some valuable tips for avoiding road rage, especially in states with high levels of traffic-related gun violence. It is important to give aggressive drivers space, move over if someone is tailgating, be aware of your surroundings, and call the police if you feel threatened or harassed. Ultimately, prioritizing your safety and arriving safely at your destination is more important than engaging with aggressive drivers.
### Conclusion
Driving can be a stressful experience, especially when faced with road rage incidents involving firearms. By being vigilant, avoiding confrontation, and knowing when to involve law enforcement, drivers can better protect themselves and prevent potentially dangerous situations on the road. It is crucial to stay calm, prioritize safety, and understand the varying levels of risk associated with road rage incidents across different states.