The growth of advertising and media in recent years has led to commercial pressures on individuals. Adverse media reporting affects individuals' willingness to comply with the rules of the road.

Hostile media can impact a driver's ability to understand the power of distractions. Hence, drivers fail to see the consequences of using mobile phones, texting, or other activities that sidetrack their attention.

Adverse media reporting shifts participants' attention and provides a coherent behavioural pattern. Negativity bias, institutionalized in media, triggers blame avoidance and shows the underlying cognitive processes.

Drivers must not let these hostile media influence them and must adopt good driving behaviour and attitudes. Drivers must learn to respect other drivers and be mindful of sharing the road with others. Drivers must avoid tailgating, allow cars to merge, and show patience if others make mistakes. Drivers must know they can play a significant role in road safety by being responsible drivers.

Resisting negative media and commercial pressures as a driver is essential for maintaining safe driving habits and avoiding risky behaviours.

Here are some examples of how to resist negative media and commercial pressures as a driver:

• Be critical of advertising

When you see advertising that promotes risky driving behaviours, such as speeding or distracted driving, take a critical approach. Think about the potential consequences of these behaviours and challenge the message being presented. For example, if you see a car commercial that promotes speeding, remind yourself that speeding is unsafe and that it is essential to prioritize safety on the road.

• Prioritize safety

Make safety a priority in all of your driving decisions. Prioritize responsible driving practices, such as wearing a seatbelt and obeying traffic laws. Avoid engaging in risky behaviours such as driving under the influence, speeding, or distracted driving.

• Set personal standards

Set personal standards for your driving habits and hold yourself accountable to these standards. For example, commit to never driving under the influence or always wearing a seatbelt, and keep yourself to these commitments even in the face of negative media or commercial pressures.

• Stay informed

Stay informed about traffic safety laws and regulations and the risks and consequences of risky driving behaviours. Knowledge is power, and staying informed can help you make informed decisions about your driving habits. For example, suppose you are aware of the dangers of distracted driving. In that case, you may be less likely to engage in this behaviour, even if you see advertising that promotes it.

• Be a positive role model

Set a good example for safe and responsible driving. Drive defensively, obey traffic laws, and avoid engaging in risky behaviours such as speeding or distracted driving. You can also influence others to drive safely and responsibly by being a positive role model.

Resisting negative media and commercial pressures as a driver means being mindful, critical, and informed about the potential risks and consequences of risky driving behaviours. By prioritizing safety and responsible driving practices, you can resist negative influences and create a safer driving culture overall.