ALT-7 Whatever Happened to Driving Etiquette
Civility Behind the Wheel,or "they're honking, but I don't think it's because they love Jesus.
I can be fairly easy-going, but there are moments that test my demeanor.
Interstate highways are a prime example. They can get us there the fastest, but the same design that frees us from stoplights and numerous intersections can bring us to a total standstill, if a wreck in front of us or road construction totally blocks off lanes of traffic. The last time I found myself in a nearly impossible situation was on a return trip from my brother's house. I was desperately trying to make time so I wouldn't hit Charlotte, NC at rush hour. My efforts failed, and I soon found myself facing miles of taillights. Right away, I found an offramp and a chance to stop at a light, read the map, and plan another route. But it was already after 4 p.m. and the city of Charlotte was heading home right in front of me. It doesn't pay to be impatient.I heard a story on the radio a few years ago about a young woman in Seattle who jumped 160 feet off a bridge. Before she took the leap, the suicidal woman had created a traffic jam as people stopped out of curiosity. What made matters worse were the number of motorists rolling down their windows to yell, "jump!" Miraculously, she survived.That incident got me thinking about the type of people we've become. Something about getting behind the wheel brings out the worst in people. Aggressive driving has become an increasing problem. Add to that more devices that distract drivers such as cell phones and portable computers, making them a menace. There are more cars on the road, and more people in a hurry than ever before.But, who would wish for a young lady to jump to what likely would be her death, just to get traffic moving again?Is it that important for me to get where I'm going in time? Will I bear down on the gas to overcome my inability to allow enough time to get somewhere? Will I get bent out of shape the next time someone in front of me goes 40 in a 55 mph zone? I have honked at people and been honked at. I've had people behind me flash their lights as I push even the legal limits in the fast lane.Folks, what's the rush?Maybe it would be better for us all to become a little less busy and clear our calendars so we can have a life, instead of rushing ourselves and our loved ones, living by the clock.I think I'll take a walk now. If you're driving, please watch out for me.
