Why Is It That We Can Be Much More Courteous Outside Our Vehicles But Not So While Driving?

Hi

My own feeling is that when someone gets into a vehicle and closes the door their personality changes.  They feel in complete control in their own little world and almost invincible.  I think basically they become selfish and have very little regard for anyone else.  Then when something goes wrong they become aggressive.  I also agree with you that the other problem seems to be everyone is rushing to get somewhere.

I must say that I don't only think it is just road users that have become more discourteous, but society generally.  I feel intimidated by groups of youths in large cities who block pavements and won't move to let you pass.  I guess that things like road rage are just a sign of the times.

I agree with the-sage. I am a different person behind a wheel, don't ask me why as I couldn't tell you. All I know is that I can become short tempered and aggressive once in the car. When my kids were small, they would call it "mummy's car language". I haven't improved with age either. I am patient when learners are in front but shout obscenities quite often at others.

I don't buy the premise that people are more courteous outside their vehicles.
Some may become an extension of their powerful vehicle.  Start noticing how many people let the door to the convenience store hit you in the face when you are following them.  How many drivers allow you to enter the road from a driveway as traaffic backs up--its maybe one third.  How many drivers are a pain--about one third.
In my opinion, they are the same people.