In wake of apparent road rage shootings, Thanksgiving drivers, travelers prepare

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) — Safety is top of mind for many people in the Triangle after a violent week of apparent road rage shootings, including one over the weekend in Wake County on Knightdale Blvd., where one person died.

“It’s a little overwhelming, it’s like anxiety inducing,” Raj Rana said.

Rana said he’s seen firsthand how driving behavior can escalate on North Carolina roads.

“I’ll try to understand my surroundings and get to a place where I cannot be in someone’s way or have their anger not be directed at me,” Rana said.

AAA is projecting nearly 90% of Thanksgiving travelers will travel by car, including in Durham County, where driving instructor Calvin Brewer is teaching students how to avoid and manage road rage.

“We have been seeing a lot more road rage and a lot more incidents about road rage, especially with the population increase,” Brewer said.

North Carolina is home to more than 11 million people, meaning more drivers on the road.

Some of the safety tips Brewer said include:

• Removing yourself from the situation

He added that there could be legal consequences depending on how you react to aggressive behaviors on the road.

“Remember the value of staying calm in stressful situations,” Brewer said. “We always teach that safety is top priority. If you feel threatened or if you know something like that, it’s better to just drive away rather than confront other drivers.”

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