While I was out driving around town today, it occurred to me that there are, in fact, rules of the road that should always be followed. I also realized how many people either don’t understand the rules or don’t care about the rules. Here are five rules I have come up with that seem pretty straightforward.
Rule number 1: Turn signals are on your vehicle for a reason, please use them! I get so frustrated by people who do not use their turn signals. For the love of Pete, please use them when changing lanes or approaching an intersection, even if you are in the turn-only lane. Using the signal lets other drivers know what you are doing.
Rule number 2: There are lines on the road for a reason; they all mean something specific. Learn what they mean! I was at an intersection today when the driver ahead of me crossed the double yellow line into the oncoming lane to try to make a left turn. Really? It’s not that hard to figure these things out. You don’t cross a double yellow line unless it’s an emergency.
Rule number 3: The signs posted at stop lights are meant to be read and followed. When you see a sign that says “No Left Turn” or “No Turn On Red”…how about you actually read the sign and follow it. It’s there for a reason, honestly, it is.
Rule number 4: Please understand that when a traffic signal is malfunctioning, it should be treated as a 4-way stop. Just because a traffic signal is not working does not give anyone the right to keep driving through the light without letting the opposite traffic go. That’s just rude.
Rule number 5: Motorcycles do not get special permission to drive between cars, in between lanes, or on the shoulders, just because they are smaller. They need to obey the rules of the road like everyone else. Stop acting like your motorcycle gives you superpowers. That’s a good way to cause an accident.
So, what do you think? Am I nuts for trying to maintain some order on the road, or do these make sense? Do you have any other rules I have not mentioned? I would love to hear what you think about this topic. Please drop me a comment and let me know what you think.
—Daniel