I think the overall driving standard varies considerably from place to place. My driving experience in the U.S. is mostly Nebraska plus about five states in the southeast, and I have to say that I found driving to be very relaxing on the whole. Sure, the freeways around Atlanta were a little manic, but out in the small towns and rural areas of the south, just like the small towns of central Nebraska, it's a different world.
It's the same in England. Here in the depths of rural north Norfolk, by far the majority of people are happy to drive along steadily and sensibly. Aggressive driving is the rare exception rather than the rule, and really stands out because of that.
Heading anywhere back toward the south or midlands it seems to change drastically and just become a free-for-all ratrace in places. I know the last time I went down through Colchester and Chelmsford way a few years ago I couldn't believe how bad the driving was, and anywhere back around the London area it's just crazy.
A friend across the street still visits relatives in Milton Keynes a couple of times each year, and often stops by the Luton/Dunstable area where he was from originally. Every time he returns he complains that the roads are worse than the last time and how it's a pleasure to be back here. I've heard plenty of similar sentiments from many others: "Great to see that 'Welcome to Norfolk' sign and be able to relax" is typical.
