Edmonds would leave his former life as a professional musician/instructor to spread words of wisdom learned through the tragedy of losing his eldest son.

Jason Edmonds was 23-years-old when he died in an automobile accident described by London police to be an incident of road rage. Also killed in the crash were friends Shaun Lodge of London and Stewart Farnum of Toronto. They were three of four male passengers in a car driven by Christopher Rowe, who was 21 at the time of the incident.

Rowe reportedly became involved in a “traffic tantrum” with a London driver who was travelling in a minivan. Both sped past each other several times before Rowe’s vehicle jumped the median on Wonderland Rd. just south of Lawson Rd.

“These three men were beautiful. They weren’t hoodlums, they were just on their way somewhere,” explained Edmonds to the Council of Driver Trainers for the Transportation Health and Safety Association of Ontario. The group meets once a month for professional development, networking and to share safety and prevention ideas.

Edmonds’ presentation, entitled Road Rage: A Family’s Perspective offered delegates detailed descriptions of what causes road rage and anger management methods to help prevent it. Throughout his gripping story, Edmonds gave the 25 or so attendees tips on how to avoid creating a hazardous situation while on the road. Advice such as no tailgating, no hogging of the passing lane; changing lanes cautiously and always signaling well in advance; only using the horn when necessary; and not using high beams to punish other drivers, was given to listeners.

“You can be drunk with alcohol, but you can also be drunk with rage,” says Edmonds. When in a car with someone who is under the influence of rage he suggests trying to distract the driver or simply asking the driver to make a pit stop or take a food break.

“If all this doesn’t work just say, ‘let me out,’ save yourself,” says Edmonds. When in the path of an aggressive driver, he explains a driver’s reaction can help avoid the onslaught of trouble.

Avoid eye contact, don’t make any angry gestures, don’t pass on the right and if followed, do not pull over and get out of your car – head for the nearest police station or crowded area.