CHICAGO, July 19 (UPI) -- Americans who drive to and from work are less likely to feel road rage during the summer than other times of the year, a survey indicates.
The job search firm CareerBuilder said in a release Tuesday its survey found 58 percent of workers said they have experienced road rage. That's about the same as the firm found the last time it asked the question in 2006. Road rage is a bit more common among women than men – 61 percent to 56 percent – and more likely among those 25-34 than those 55 and older – 68 percent to 47 percent, the survey shows.
The survey also found 9 percent said they had gotten into a fight with another commuter.
Seventeen percent of commuters surveyed said they tend to have less road rage during the summer months, while 10 percent said they get angry behind the wheel more often in the summer.
"Road rage is most often associated with running late and far commutes," said Rosemary Haefner, vice president of human resources at CareerBuilder. "Planning ahead and taking advantage of flexible work arrangements can help alleviate stress levels and set a more positive vibe for the workday."
Haefner gives the following advice to commuters who may tend to let their emotions boil over:
-- Give yourself extra time. Set out clothes and prepare lunches the night before, and set the alarm 15 minutes earlier.
-- Request flexible work arrangements to avoid rush hours.
-- Try listening to soothing music or books on tape.
-- Consider public transportation instead of driving.
CareerBuilder's survey of more than 3,800 people nationwide was conducted May 14-June 4 by Harris Interactive. The margin of error was plus or minus 1.57 percent points.
