Since I got my license at the ripe age of eighteen, I've had my fair share of bad driving moments. I will be the first to admit that I am not the world's greatest driver but, I do abide by the rules of the road as well as those of common courtesy. Growing up on Long Island, it seems that not everyone does as I do. It's been a minute since we've all taken our road tests so, here's some friendly reminders for those who get behind the wheel every day. If you're not going to follow them, please let me know when you start your ignition so I can be sure to stay home.
1. There should be at least one car-length between you and the car in front of you.
This is done in order to prevent accidents, and also to keep frustration at a minimum. If I cannot see your headlights in my rear-view mirror, you are too far up my butt. When it's done to me, I'm always doing at least the speed limit. It's probably not the brightest idea on my part but, if you do this to me, I will only go slower.
2. Use your blinker.
I'm a very forgetful person and I usually don't remember to bring my crystal ball with me when I go for a drive. That being said, unless you give me an indication, I have no way to tell which direction you're moving. Luckily, in recent years, these new inventions known as blinkers have been added to help with this problem.Please note that they should be used for both left and right turns.
3. Accelerate onto the highway.
The LIE, the GWB, the Southern State, all scary places, I know. However, slowing down as you enter helps no one out. Move with the flow of traffic on your way to school or work and maybe, just maybe, we won't have as many traffic jams that cause me to be late to class.
4. Rubbernecking is a no-no.
I know we are all super curious when an accident occurs, or when someone gets pulled over. But, for the love of God, pay attention to what's in front of you. If I have to slam on my breaks one more time on Nicoll's Road I'm going to scream.
5. Pedestrians have the right of way, always.
Some roads don't have a crosswalk. Guess what? People still walk! Especially on campus and in small towns. Wherever you're going in your beat-up car is not as important as giving them the right of way. That being said, pedestrians, it would be nice if you could speed it up a little bit.
6. Use your damn blinker.
I seriously can't stress this enough...I'm begging you.
7. Put your phone down and pay attention.
I am the girl that will honk at you if you take too long at a light that just turned green. I know you're texting, snapchatting, and/or taking a selfie. Do that later. I have places to go and people to see and I can't sit at this light for another fifteen minutes. #itcanwait.
8. Be safe.
However you drive, whether it be fast or slow, just do it safely. If you take too long at a stop sign, if you go 30 in a 55, I really don't care all too much. Despite this article being about my road frustrations, my number one concern is that we all get to our destination safely. Let's make sure we do.
