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Published: Friday, October 31, 2025 at 7:23 am

Road Rage: A Tale of Two Cities and a Peaceful Suburb

In a recent reflection, television writer and producer Rob Long, known for his work on *Cheers* and as co-founder of Ricochet.com, explores the phenomenon of road rage and its impact on daily life. Long contrasts his experiences driving in Los Angeles and New York City, highlighting the shared tendency for drivers in both cities to transform into enraged individuals behind the wheel.

Long recounts his experiences in Los Angeles, where he would transition from a relaxed state after yoga to aggressive driving within seconds. He describes yelling insults at other drivers, a common occurrence in the city. He then contrasts this with his experiences in New York, where he continues to drive, despite the city's congestion. He notes that the city's congestion fee has, to some extent, improved traffic flow.

Long's observations extend beyond the immediate experience of driving. He notes the differences in pedestrian behavior, with New York pedestrians darting across streets, adding to the frustration of drivers.

The piece takes a turn as Long describes his recent move to Princeton, New Jersey. In this idyllic suburb, he finds a stark contrast to the driving environments of Los Angeles and New York. Drivers are courteous, stop for pedestrians, and generally exhibit a calm demeanor. This peaceful atmosphere, however, presents a new challenge for Long, who is accustomed to the stress and anger associated with driving in the city. He humorously worries about the lack of an outlet for his usual road rage, fearing it might manifest in an inappropriate context.

BNN's Perspective:

The author's observations offer a humorous yet insightful commentary on the impact of urban environments on human behavior. While the piece is lighthearted, it raises questions about the role of stress and frustration in modern life, particularly in densely populated areas. The author's transition to a more peaceful environment highlights the potential benefits of a less stressful lifestyle, while also acknowledging the challenges of adapting to such a change.

Keywords: road rage, driving, Los Angeles, New York City, Princeton, traffic, congestion, anger, stress, urban life, suburbs, pedestrians, yoga, humor, Rob Long

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