Many motorists on the road are unaware of the large number of accidents that occur due to drivers preoccupied with their emotions. Common emotions that manifest themselves during driving are: stress, anger and depression. Such emotions can lead to dangerous driving situations by impairing a driver's judgment, perception and the ability to react promptly in an emergency. A driver who is under great emotional stress from a domestic squabble or worries about health or finances, for example, is at significantly greater risk of being involved in an accident.

In their most severe form, emotions can lead to aggressive driving. Often, the triggering event will be trivial - like being cut off by another driver or heavy traffic. A driver, who is already preoccupied, stressed or angry, responds emotionally and uses the vehicle as an outlet for pent-up aggression. Speeding, ignoring traffic signals, tailgating, flashing headlights or weaving between lanes are typical behaviors of an emotional driver.

To be sure you get to your destination and back safely, take the time to make certain you are aware of the impact emotions can have on the way you drive. Follow these safe driving tips to help you drive with other drivers on your mind, not your emotions:

• Understand what circumstances are influencing specific emotions and behaviors. Try to put the problem in its proper perspective - can anything be as important as avoiding an accident on the road and staying safe? While in the driver's seat, those concerns are the "immediate" worry and other problems need to take a back seat.

• Reduce stress on the road. Allow plenty of time to get to all destinations and plan a route that avoids the worst congestion whenever possible.

• Be a courteous driver. Allow other drivers to pass, merge, turn and change lanes. Use good judgment, common sense and follow safe driving rules. Whenever possible, try to anticipate how other drivers may react in a given situation and plan accordingly.

• Get off the road and take a break. If anger, depression or stress begins to negatively influence your driving decisions or behaviors, take a break or a short walk to calm down.

• Talk to a professional. If it becomes increasingly difficult to manage emotions and/or behavior, it may be necessary to talk to a professional who can offer suggestions to deal with these feelings in a safe way.