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Roadkill Revelations: Do Drivers Really Swerve for Turtles? Plus, Tips to Calm Down After a Close Call

You know that feeling – heart pounding, palms sweating – after a near miss on the road? Maybe you had to slam on the brakes, or swerve to avoid something unexpected. We're diving into a fascinating roadkill experiment and sharing practical tips to help you calm down after a close call. Buckle up!

Turtles, Snakes, and...Clicker Training? A Roadkill Experiment

Ever heard the saying, "Slow and steady wins the race"? Turns out, it might hold true for our shelled friends on the road. YouTuber and former NASA engineer Mark Rober decided to test the popular theory that drivers are more likely to swerve for turtles than snakes. His weapon of choice? Rubber reptiles, of course!

Rober meticulously placed rubber turtles and snakes (and even a tarantula for good measure!) on the side of the road and observed driver behavior. The results? Snakes were actually hit more often than turtles, debunking the myth!

Why the surprising outcome? It's impossible to know for sure, but some speculate that the shape and movement of a snake might be less noticeable to drivers than a turtle's higher profile.

Op Clicker Training: A Surprising Connection?

While not directly related to Rober's experiment, the world of animal training, particularly operant conditioning (often using tools like clickers), offers an interesting perspective on behavior modification. Just like clicker training can shape an animal's actions through positive reinforcement, could similar principles apply to encouraging safer driving habits? It's food for thought!

How to Calm Down After a Near Miss: Your Post-Swerve Survival Guide

Whether you narrowly avoided a squirrel or had a close call with another car, those adrenaline-fueled moments can rattle your nerves. Here's how to regain your composure:

  • Breathe: Deep, slow breaths are your best friend. Try the 4-7-8 technique: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8.
  • Pull Over: If possible, find a safe spot to stop and collect yourself. A few minutes can make a big difference.
  • Positive Self-Talk: Replace negative thoughts with calming affirmations. Remind yourself, "I'm safe. I'm in control."
  • Sensory Input: Engage your senses to ground yourself. Listen to calming music, sip water, or notice the sights and smells around you.

Remember, it's perfectly normal to feel shaken up after a near miss. Give yourself time to recover, and don't hesitate to reach out for support if needed.

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