Written by: Larry Coffey.
I am courteous to other drivers. When drivers try to change lanes in front of me, or try to exit a difficult parking lot in traffic, sometimes I will let them in. Of course, if I'm in a hurry or just in a bad mood, I won't. I hope they understand that. If they don't, too bad, I was there first.
I keep my car in great condition. Except for the plug in one of my tires and that burned out turn signal lamp, my car is in decent shape. In fact, seven months ago, when I brought my car in for an oil change, the mechanic suggested new air filters, so I even paid extra for them. It hasn't rained much lately, so I haven't had to replace my streaky wiper blades yet. Also, I'm glad I don't live in the mountains because I'd probably have to have tires with more tread if I lived there.
I keep two hands on the steering wheel. Other than changing radio stations or putting in a new CD or eating lunch or drinking a soda I keep both hands on the wheel. Sometimes I'll rest one of my hands, but it'll be close to the wheel, at least. Drumming on the steering wheel counts, doesn't it? Also, I won't touch my cell phone unless someone calls me, and then I'll only talk for a little while. Unless it's a really important call, that is.
I am never distracted. I almost never notice the attractive driver in the car next to me at the stoplight. At those times I do, I will eventually notice the green light and usually start moving before the car behind me starts honking.
I use my turn signals. Only a moron wouldn't use turn signals; they're so easy to use. It's important to signal your intentions to other drivers so they know exactly what you're going to do and so they can react to it. Unless, of course, I don't want them to know what I'm doing, like changing lanes in traffic, so I don't use signals then. They'd only speed up to block me anyway. Also, if nobody is around, I don't use signals when I turn a corner. The pedestrians waiting on the corner don't care.
I don't speed. I almost never go more than ten miles over the speed limit. If I'm late, I may move into the fast lane and drive a little faster and hope that the driver in car in front understands that I'm in a hurry. If not, sometimes I'll help the driver understand by flashing my lights and following closely until the car moves over to another lane. I might even respond courteously to his "you're number one" one-fingered wave with one of my own.
I explain all this to the uniformed officer who has mistakenly pulled me over. I tell him that I don't need a summons to appear in court because, after all, I am not only a good driver; I'm a great driver. ;)
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