These Are Bangor’s Most Road Rage-Inducing Streets

Let's get real for a moment – road rage is the silent passenger that often hops into the car with us. We've all been there, gripping the steering wheel a little too tight, maybe exchanging a few colorful words with the driver who cut us off. And in the Queen City of the East, a few stretches of pavement seem to invite road rage more than a misplaced horn honk. So, buckle up, and let's take a cruise down the lanes that make even the calmest drivers clench their fists.

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First, road rage refers to aggressive or angry behavior displayed by drivers. These behaviors encompass actions such as using rude language, shouting, making physical threats, or employing dangerous driving techniques toward other drivers, pedestrians, or cyclists. The intention behind these actions is to intimidate others or vent frustration.

Several factors contribute to the experience of road rage. According to a report from Forbes Advisor, their survey of drivers highlighted the following top reasons for experiencing road rage: Heavy traffic (39.35%), Existing stress (38.06%), Running behind schedule (33.89%), Pre-existing anger (32.49%), and Fatigue (26.86%).

We turned to Facebook to inquire with Bangor residents about the most frustrating areas for driving in our neck of the woods. The responses provided us with a clear picture of locations to avoid whenever possible. Unfortunately, road rage can escalate when it's impossible to steer clear of such situations.

It's no shocker that Broadway in Bangor tops the list. From Mary Snow School to the Dysart's, this stretch tests the patience of even the most Zen-like drivers. The intersection that plays referee to McDonald's, Moe's Original BBQ, and the Broadway Shopping Center with TJ Maxx and Planet Fitness, is a symphony of congestion. You'll notice the same issues as you go further down, near the Walgreens and the left turn onto Husson Ave. And don't even get started on the Tim Hortons obstacle course. How am I supposed to get my Timbits?

Not surprisingly, Stillwater Ave received a lot of mentions when it comes to road rage. With traffic lights aplenty, this avenue leaves hurried drivers waiting. Moreover, the ramp at Exit 186 is consistently chaotic, as it has been for a while. Navigating through this ramp involves a lot of lane splitting, sudden lane changes, and hopeful maneuvering. Once you reach the end of the Exit, situated across from the Texas Roadhouse and the Stillwater Plaza, not being in the right lane (which is quite common if you're not familiar with the Bangor area) might unknowingly obstruct traffic flow due to the confusing signage. The Bangor Mall vicinity is equally disorderly; it’s a free-for-all out there.

Let's take a detour to the 182A on and off ramp – where merging becomes an extreme sport. This ramp's a tad too short for comfort, and if you want to exit, but the lane is blocked by people trying to enter, it becomes really frustrating. This was the aspect of driving down south that I hated the most when I first began driving. Yielding? More like yielding to your survival instincts.

You might anticipate this, but it's particularly noticeable in Downtown Bangor, Main St., and particularly around the Maine Savings Amphitheater on days when concerts take place. The traffic right before and immediately after the concert can be quite challenging. The police put in their best effort to assist everyone in reaching their destinations, but it becomes complicated when there are individuals who are intoxicated and not concerned about their own safety, or those who are still riding the excitement wave after attending an amazing concert. This combination makes it tough for drivers who simply want to exit the area.

Now that we've gone over some of the more popular responses, let's delve into your Facebook comments.

Heather L:

Shorter list is where I don't.

Stephanie J:

As soon as I get in my car, it seems lately there's always an issue... people just can't drive anymore or just don't give a f$&#. Either distracted or just plain stupid.

Kayla W:

3.stillwater

2.stillwater

1.stillwater.

Lindsey D:

Stillwater by khols! The design and how people drive make me itch.

Jennifer D:

Mcdonalds drive thru lines. Hahahahah. The every other lane merging seems to be hard for some people to understand. People also bypass the line to hit up the speaker on the outside and other people follow making 2 drive thru lines and blocking the parking lot.

Gary R:

At the 'no turn on red' lights on Stillwater Ave exit and the south bound Broadway exit. Too many people are ignoring the signs and pull out in front of traffic.

As I mentioned earlier, nobody is perfect, and we all experience road rage. However, it's important to note that despite our affection for Bangor, the truth is that Bangor is far from being perfect as well.