BILLINGS - It is the driver that cuts you off, does not use their turning signal, talks on their cell phone, that slow-moving truck you just cannot get around, or the road construction all across town. Drivers in Billings are bound to experience a little frustration behind the wheel this summer.
"There is an inordinate amount of frustration that comes with finding that the route that you've chosen has got a hitch in it," said David McFarland, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for Youth Services.
McFarland said anger, which is a secondary emotion, can come on quickly, especially when people are behind the wheel.
"The anonymity of it and the high probability that you're going to escape your rude behavior allows people to feel that it's a safe place to vent," said McFarland.
He said studies show men, especially younger ones, are more likely to experience road rage, along with another unique group of drivers, "People with bumper stickers are more likely to perpetuate road rage than those without."
McFarland said it could be a territorial thing, it that they are more likely to be opinionated, but he was not sure of the exact correlation.
McFarland said if you are driving and feel your blood pressure rising take some deep breaths, think of your favorite person, place or pet and keep the situation in perspective.
"Remember, it's not a competition, it's just traffic," said McFarland.
He said when you find yourself retaliating against someone on the road you have gone too far and may have a rage problem.