Emotions and driving — Rhode Island Permit Test

Studies show the most critical factor in driver performance, regardless of training, is self-awareness and the ability to interact with other people.

A skilled driver who loses their temper still makes the move that causes the crash.

Studies have shown the most critical factor in driver performance, regardless of training, is an individual’s self-awareness and ability to interact with other people.

An upset or emotionally charged driver may look straight at a traffic light or stop sign and drive through it, follow too closely, or pass on hills or curves.

A driver still angry from an argument stares at a red light and rolls right through it.

The upset or emotionally charged driver may look directly at a traffic light or stop sign and drive through it.

Positive emotions such as being very happy and excited can impair driving, but negative ones such as anger and frustration may affect it even more.

Cheering about a game win can make a driver careless, but rage behind the wheel is more dangerous still.

While positive emotions, like feeling overly happy and excited, can certainly cause impairment, negative emotions such as anger and frustration may affect driving safety to an even greater degree.

According to studies, what is the most critical factor in driver performance?

Self-awareness and dealing with people. A skilled driver who loses their temper still makes the move that causes the crash. Rhode Island Driver’s Manual, p.22: “Studies have shown the most critical factor in driver performance, regardless of training, is an individual’s self-awareness and ability to interact with other people.”