The Driver's Guide, Chapter One

When you start out doing something like this, it's not as simple as it seems. Writing is never simple. I figure this project is something that would be better in an interactive style. Maybe we can get some feedback from people. Maybe there really are legitimate reasons for some of the things we see The Ungood Drivers do. Maybe there's a perfectly sound explanation for that guy who's backing up in the left lane of the Expressway. Maybe there are people who've been taught that Stop Signs really are optional. But this can also be a source of some good, common sense advice, and maybe we can even get a little input from a few genuine experts. I'm not an expert, but I believe that at least where driving is concerned, I'm pretty well-versed. But I would love to get this going as a means of addressing a real problem. So let's start with a few basic tips and see what people have to say. I think the following are some generally accepted points and principles, so it's a good start. The Basics The common automobile comes equipped with 2 or 3 foot pedals. The one to the far right is the gas pedal. We only mention that because we want people to know that it's ok to occasionally use that one. When the traffic light is working, it's performing the function of guiding traffic flow. It is not some sort of modern art to be admired for hours. It's not going to get any greener. Drive please. Despite rumors to the contrary, Stop and Yield signs really aren't optional. And by "Stop" the idea is, you stop. You're not being directed to make everyone around you slam on their brakes and make those pretty black marks on the pavement. On a multi-lane highway, it's a generally accepted principle that the left lane is intended to be used by faster-moving traffic in order to pass slower-moving traffic, which, by default, should be traveling in the right lanes. If people are required to use the lanes to your right in order to get by you, and you're puzzled by the horrendous looks those people are giving you, here's The Clue of the Day: You're in the wrong lane! Move To The Right! I think that's good enough for Chapter One, no? Let's get some ideas here, folks.