what if you're in your car and someone who is all raging out gets out and starts heading your way? Wouldn't that be a self defense situation for you? If you're stopped at a light behind other cars, would you stay in your car? Would you get out?
What if you couldn't see both of his hands?
I don't agree that it's ego defense. It may not be entirely rational, but it's not always voluntary. I've seen otherwise very rational people completely lose their cool on the road.
I also don't agree that it's always or even mostly a mutual, voluntary altercation. I've seen plenty of situations (and been involved with a few myself) where one side is genuinely confused and actively seeking to avoid confrontation.
I agree with this. And especially this part - " I've seen otherwise very rational people completely lose their cool on the road."
I've been seeing this for years now. Why do you suppose that is? What is it about being behind the wheel that causes this? I've also noticed it happens more frequently with solo drivers.