by Len Morse

Created on: October 08, 2010

Proper driving etiquette helps keep you and other drivers safe, especially while merging into traffic. In general, drivers should remember that visual communication with others, defensive driving, and using signals and mirrors helps keep you safer, especially when merging during crowded conditions. You should also be aware not only of your vehicle’s movements, but the potential movements of another driver’s car. You never truly know what someone else is thinking, especially on the road.

== Turn Signals ==

Any time driving etiquette is mentioned, the ensuing story will usually involve a turn signal, or the lack of one. When you misuse your turn signal, it creates confusion and anxiety for other drivers. It doesn’t matter if people are expecting you to merge or not - etiquette dictates that you should use your turn signal any time you want to merge.

Signaling after you start changing lanes is like a bad golfer yelling “Fore!” after his ball hits the player on the next fairway – it’s a moot point. Always signal before changing lanes, and before entering or exiting the highway.

== Changing Lanes ==

Some drivers who swerve into other lanes know exactly what they are doing, consciously courting danger just to get ahead of others quickly. This blatant disregard for safety is one cause of road rage, which you should always try to avoid. Just let them go, possibly with the consoling thought that they will eventually make a costly mistake.

Another unfortunate cause of bad merging is drifting, a dangerous and unintentional action usually performed by drivers who are not paying attention. Intent on something inside the vehicle, the driver allows the steering system to pull to one side or the other on their way down the road. S/he will usually catch the mistake and do one of two things: quickly steer the vehicle back in to their lane or, if multiple lanes are available, act as though they meant to change lanes.

The lane markers are there for a reason. Don’t talk on your cell phone (unlawful in some places), eat, apply makeup, shave, constantly look at your passenger(s) during conversation, or stare at the goofy bumper sticker in the next lane. You are taking your life and the lives of your passengers into your hands every time you drive, so keep strict control of your moving vehicle.

== Vehicle Ability ==

Not only should you pay attention to your immediate surroundings while driving, but you should also know your vehicle’s

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