Every state in the U.S. requires would be drivers to study a driving manual, practice driving under the supervision of a licensed driver, and successfully pass written tests and driving tests.
But, take just a three hour drive and it's hard to believe licenses are not given to anyone who wants one. In just a few hours, you will experience horrible driving of all kinds, from the person paying more attention to a cell phone or a cup of coffee than to the road to the NASCAR wannabe who moves from lane to lane, cutting off anyone in his or her way, to the person who drives in the far left lane at 10 miles below the speed limit. If you want to be at the other end of the driving spectrum, try these ten rules.
1. Do not ever drink and drive. As few as two drinks can impair you to some degree.
2. Be sure to follow at least 2 seconds behind the car in front of you. Three to four seconds is even better,
3. If a car is following you too closely to be able to stop safely in the event you have to stop quickly, pull over and let it pass. As annoying as that may be to do, it could save your life or the life of one of your passengers.
4. Adjust all of your mirrors with great care. Make note of your blind spots and drive accordingly.
5. Never assume that other drivers will stop at red lights or stop signs. Always look before driving through an intersection.
6. Pay close attention to the actions of other drivers and be especially careful of those who drive erratically and/or aggressively.
7. Be a defensive driver. Remain prepared to compensate for the errors of others.
8. Adapt to poor lighting, bad weather, rough roads or other less than ideal conditions. Drive more slowly, follow at greater distance, etc. Be especially careful when ice or snow is on roads.
9. Replace worn tires, brakes, windshield wipers, etc. immediately when required.
10. You should never make a driving move that requires another driver to slow down or change direction. If you do, you are part of the problem.
Driving is not a forgiving activity. Any mistake can lead to serious injury, or worse. So, do everything you can to make it more pleasant and safer for everyone on the roadways.
But, take just a three hour drive and it's hard to believe licenses are not given to anyone who wants one. In just a few hours, you will experience horrible driving of all kinds, from the person paying more attention to a cell phone or a cup of coffee than to the road to the NASCAR wannabe who moves from lane to lane, cutting off anyone in his or her way, to the person who drives in the far left lane at 10 miles below the speed limit. If you want to be at the other end of the driving spectrum, try these ten rules.
1. Do not ever drink and drive. As few as two drinks can impair you to some degree.
2. Be sure to follow at least 2 seconds behind the car in front of you. Three to four seconds is even better,
3. If a car is following you too closely to be able to stop safely in the event you have to stop quickly, pull over and let it pass. As annoying as that may be to do, it could save your life or the life of one of your passengers.
4. Adjust all of your mirrors with great care. Make note of your blind spots and drive accordingly.
5. Never assume that other drivers will stop at red lights or stop signs. Always look before driving through an intersection.
6. Pay close attention to the actions of other drivers and be especially careful of those who drive erratically and/or aggressively.
7. Be a defensive driver. Remain prepared to compensate for the errors of others.
8. Adapt to poor lighting, bad weather, rough roads or other less than ideal conditions. Drive more slowly, follow at greater distance, etc. Be especially careful when ice or snow is on roads.
9. Replace worn tires, brakes, windshield wipers, etc. immediately when required.
10. You should never make a driving move that requires another driver to slow down or change direction. If you do, you are part of the problem.
Driving is not a forgiving activity. Any mistake can lead to serious injury, or worse. So, do everything you can to make it more pleasant and safer for everyone on the roadways.
About the Author:
Larry Libassi is a teacher and counselor who drives more than 40,000 miles a year. When he is not behind the wheel of a car, he teachers and helps adults identify online college programs and online degree options which will help them achieve their individual educational and career goals.
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