Driving On 9/11: How To Drive While Feeling Emotional Or Sad on This Tragic Day

In general, it's almost impossible to get behind the wheel of a vehicle without dragging some emotional baggage along with you. In addition to the normal ebbs and flows of life, there were many deaths on September 11, 2001; the thought of terrorist attacks and grief may be distracting for some drivers. The public's reaction to terrorist threats might have far-reaching effects on the highway transportation system. While the impact of 9/11 has diminished with time, many people have had car accidents while feeling sad or anxious because of the tragic event.

Some people deal with the pain by consuming alcohol or drugs. According to research, driving under the influence of intense emotions raises the risk of a collision by ten times. The Highway Hero Driving Academy staff wants you to consider the dangers of spirited driving and how to regulate your emotions for a safer trip.

Why is Emotional Driving Bad?

We shouldn't be surprised that people use their emotions as a reason to drive. After a fight or when faced with bad news, many individuals turn to their automobiles as a means of escape.

The commute to work may become a breeding ground for bad feelings for individuals who have demanding, challenging, or unpleasant jobs. A long trip in heavy traffic may exacerbate anger and guilt. Distracted driving may be as dangerous as texting, drinking and driving, or driving while high because powerful emotions make us think less clearly.

How to Keep Control of Your Emotions

Because of the dangers of driving while you're emotional, it's best to take a walk instead of getting behind the wheel. If you must drive, use the following strategies:

1. Focus on the Rainbow

You'll be able to regulate your emotions if you control your ideas. Highway Hero Driving Academy suggests that you maintain a positive mind. Remember the good times you had on your previous trip? Or reminisce about how good your meal was last night. The more you focus on the good times, the more you'll find yourself relaxing.

2. Take a Deep Breath

You may calm your mind and body by taking deep, steady breaths. Breathe in for 2 seconds, out for 4 seconds, in for 6 seconds, and out for 8 seconds. Repeat this several times, and you will notice your heartbeat slowing down.

3. Play Your Favorite Music - Ditch the News Today

While it's essential to stay up with the news, don't check while driving. There's no need to watch the towers fall on replay all day. Be conscious of how you feel when the news becomes unpleasant. Is it a source of worry or annoyance for you? Of course! Instead, turn on music that has a calming impact on your thoughts and emotions.

4. Get Enough Sleep

A good night's rest will make you more attentive and ready to cope with the emotions that arise throughout your day. If a person starts talking to you about the tragedy, you may feel less burnt out and emotional if you get adequate sleep. Thus, you'll be more prepared to drive because of it, making you a safer driver overall.

5. Plan Your Trip

Are you annoyed by unexpected delays on the highway? Plan to leave a little early to maintain your cool in the event of a wait and still make your appointment. If you plan correctly, you'll be able to choose the path with the fewest obstructions and lessen your anxiety. Sometimes we go down a rabbit hole of sadness. One minute, we are sad about being late, and then we are overcome with emotion because we realize that the people in the Twin Towers will never get another opportunity to go anywhere because they lost their life. Try to minimize this by being intentional about your route.

Final Thoughts

Feel free to search for other methods for calming down while driving. It is necessary for the sake of your personal safety and the safety of others. Did you already follow these tips on your driving? Let us know in the comment below!