by Louis Albornoz

Created on: February 27, 2007   Last Updated: May 17, 2007

Where have all the courteous drivers gone?

It does seem that poor driving manners are commonplace these days and it is probably caused by a combination of factors. Before examining those factors though, what are examples of bad driving etiquette? Here are some:

1. Tailgating
2. Cutting people off
3. Blocking the intersection
4. Driving slow in the left lane
5. Not staying within your own lane

6. Changing lanes without signaling
7. Not allowing other drivers to pass easily
8. Holding up drivers behind you while you look for parking
9. Keeping your high beams on as other drivers approach you
10. Being in a minor fender-bender and not moving your vehicle to the side of the road

The list is endless really.

Driving etiquette requires behavior behind the wheel that does not inconvenience other drivers. Is there ever a good reason to be rude to other drivers? The answer is no. Driving is a serious responsibility that entails the safety of other people's lives, and treating other drivers with disregard demonstrates an ignorant mentality.

Now, let's address some of the reasons for why driving etiquette is disappearing:

At the top of the list is probably poor driver education. Proper driving etiquette should be taught in driving school. The ability to interact properly with other motorists is just as important as knowing the rules of the road. If every new driver was taught proper driving etiquette before receiving their license, there would be less aggravation for all drivers.

Secondly, rude people are allowed to drive. They can be found everywhere and their rudeness is often magnified when they get behind the wheel of a car. These people are a big reason for the general decline of driving etiquette.

People that are caught demonstrating rude behavior while driving should have their licenses revoked. Rude drivers often cause accidents or become involved in roadside confrontations. They are a true hazard to other road users. A three strike system would greatly reduce, if not eliminate, these kinds of drivers.

I think that an excellent way to increase driving etiquette would be through a pro-active campaign of driver education, as well as other drivers setting a good example. Being a courteous driver is easy to accomplish and takes little effort. It entails demonstrating empathy and generosity anytime you are behind the wheel of a vehicle.

Is someone desperately trying to merge and no one is letting them through? Be the one to let them in.

Is someone rapidly coming up behind you in your lane? Speed up or move over.

Do you need to drive slowly to look for parking? Pull over and let everyone behind you pass first.

Driving etiquette can once again become commonplace if we all work together. Simply give your fellow motorists the benefit of the doubt and they may do the same for you. The end result will be a more pleasant driving experience for everyone.

Thanks for reading!

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