Did you know that studies have shown there are as many as seven distinct types of drivers on the road? These different personalities have drastically different drive styles and behaviors, which don’t always mesh well with others – or make for a safe journey. Read on to learn more about a few driving personalities and see for yourself which one you identify with.
The Competitive Driver
Competitive drivers are always annoyed when someone gets in their way, so they’re often referred to as “speed demons.” These drivers are easily spotted, as they constantly accelerate when anyone overtakes them, just to prevent anyone else from getting and staying in front of them. The one thing competitive drivers need to be reminded of is that it isn’t a race.
The Road Rager
The most aggressive form of driver, the road rager is all about punishing other drivers for what they deem are misbehaviors. Some may even pull over to approach other drivers directly, taking out any angst they have on others. Ironically, resorting to road rage is a misbehavior in itself, so road ragers could be considered the hypocrites of the road.
The Escapee
Many drivers talk on the phone or listen to music while driving, but the escapee driver likes to be distracted from the road. This may be because relating to other drivers may cause frustration or boredom, but whatever the reason, escapees are caught up in their own cockpit-sized world, which may be good for a stress-free drive, but isn’t the best idea when texting and other distracting driving behaviors come into play.
The Know-it-All
The know-it-all driver believes he or she is one of the best drivers on the road, and that all the rest are incompetent fools. Know-it-all drivers often shout at other drivers, make snide remarks, point out other’s wrongdoings, and otherwise make a scene – all from the protection of their own vehicles. Hey, if nobody else can hear your aggravation, consider it a form of therapy.
The Timid Driver
Timid drivers are never sure of themselves behind the wheel. They often approach stop signs and stop lights with extreme caution, never quite knowing when to fully hit the brake. Timid drivers may also go to great lengths to avoid getting in anyone’s way. When backing out of a parking lot, for instance, a timid driver may pull back into a spot if another vehicle is spotted, just to avoid the appearance of getting in someone else’s way.
The Teacher
Teachers always want to correct others, so when they encounter someone who’s made a driving error, they’ll physically let them know with hand signals (hopefully not vulgar ones). The teacher also expects recognition from others because, in their minds, it’s just good form. For example, if they’ve allowed another driver to pull out in front of them and they don’t get a thankful gesture in return, they feel offended.
We may not be defined by our unique driving personalities, but identifying them can also help identify behaviors we need to work on. What kind of driver are you?
“Image” via Pixabay by Free-Photos. Used with permission via Creative Commons CC0 | cropped from original