Quote:
Originally Posted by SameOldStory
In the US we drive on the right. Those that drive on the left will have to make a mental adjustment to my descriptions.
Most states in the US require heavy truckers to drive on the right (outer most) side. The problem is that the road surface in that lane breaks down faster and has a more uneven surface causing a bumpy road at best, and a pothole damaging drive at worst.
The problem starts when some twit drives slowly in the next lane. Twits (see page 9 of the drivers manual) think that by driving 20 miles per hours under the speed limit is safer.
The contrary is true. People expect that those in the center lanes will be going at least the speed limit. In a very short time they have to decide which way to go around the "twitter". That or suddenly stomp on the break causing the car behind them to rear end them. The "twitter" looks in the rearview mirror and shakes their head at all the bad drivers. 
Now I'm not condemning all the old slow drivers. I figure that they know that they're unable to drive above a certain speed. I just wish that they would stay out of the middle lane! |
YMMV but in our state we actually have signs saying "Slower Traffic Keep Right". You wouldn't think much more would be necessary, but...
Most states have something like a Basic Speed Law wherein the speed limit for that road is whatever is reasonable for the prevailing conditions. If the flow of traffic is doing 70, the speed limit is then 70 regardless of what the sign says. If you're doing 55,
you're the problem; even if the posted speed limit is 55
. In our state you can actually be cited for this though it tends to be discretionary. [
Expletive] in the pricey sedan threading traffic bumper-to-bumper at 15-over is dangerous, no doubt; but so is the person(s) driving slow enough to obstruct traffic.
Moral of the story: When it comes to traffic, Go With The Flow. If you're not in a hurry, take the scenic route. If 65/70/75/whatever is too fast for you, take surface-streets or learn to stay on the right. I shouldn't have to cut an extra 2 hours out of my day to accommodate your selfishness.