Can we design cars to prevent road rage?

Abstract

Road rage has become a serious problem in many countries as traffic density grows and the pace of modern life accelerates. Ways to reduce road rage are needed and in this paper we suggest several ways in which cars could be designed to reduce road rage. In some cases, vehicle redesign is necessary, e.g. to reduce horn blowing or headlight flashing, or to improve communication between drivers. Experiments should be made to identify frequent road ragers to other drivers and to identify road rage incidents that are in progress, e.g. by means of global positioning systems (GPS) and other warning devices. Also certain design features now in a few cars could be made more widely available, e.g. systems to prevent or at least advise against tailgating. Most of the ideas presented here would need extensive technical testing and critical examination in the light of public policy and legal product liability before they could be implemented on a broad scale.