1. Learn traffic laws and regulations and follow them. Most drivers don't really have a good grasp of our road rules and signs, nor do they follow them. Most of us view formal driving education as an unnecessary exercise that one must go through to get one's license. This is probably why most are not averse to contributing to the personal finances of corrupt apprehending officers when we unknowingly commit a traffic violation. Knowing what is and isn't acceptable goes a long way in contributing to stress-free driving. It will also help reduce traffic congestion when everyone starts observing rules and regulations. Every man for himself is not one of those.

2. Pay attention when driving. Let's face it: when we get into traffic incidents, it's usually when one or more drivers get distracted or don’t pay attention. The other guy doesn't suddenly cut into your lane; you’re most likely unaware that he was going to. Knowing our terrible traffic conditions is enough reason for you to pay attention to how you drive and how other motorists around you drive. Repair costs due to traffic accidents are motivation enough for us to be extra vigilant.

3. Keep your car properly maintained. Keeping your car in tiptop working condition rewards you as well as other motorists by staving off an unexpected breakdown. Now, if you've been practicing resolutions 1 and 2, resolution no.3 would come naturally. A stalled car causes traffic and undue stress for everyone. Not to mention missed appointments and potentially dangerous situations.

4. Be Punctual. This seems to be a no-brainer, but when we're in a rush, our good driving habits often go out the window in our efforts to arrive on time. Driver and passenger alert: Leave early. It's better to arrive early and relaxed at your destination rather than battle it out with that bus or truck driver in the next lane as you jockey for a vacant spot in traffic. This may even lead to traffic altercations that could end badly for all involved.

5. Keep cool in traffic. We're talking about your temper here, not only the temperature of your car’s air conditioning. It helps in maintaining a cool head to have a fairly comfortable car should you get stuck in traffic. Relax a little, listen to your favorite radio station or Ipod tunes. But at all times avoid watching videos or engaging in other distracting activities.

6. Take responsibility. Instead of choosing to be part of the unending problem of corruption, take responsibility for your actions and accept that traffic citation when you’re truly at fault (but respectfully contest that ticket when you’re not). Of course, these instances will be few and far in between if you’re practicing the first five resolutions.