ARE YOU A POLITE DRIVER IN RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC?

Anyone living in or around Folsom and Sacramento is familiar with rush hour traffic. The Capital City Freeway was once named one of the worst commutes in America. For those of us who still use the freeway for our commute, we know how dangerous and frustrating traffic can be. Unfortunately, rude, aggressive, and reckless drivers can make commuting in rush hour traffic even more dangerous. If everyone would adopt a few simple “rush hour rules,” the commute would not be near as annoying or treacherous.

Rush Hour Rules

Be a polite commuter by:

• Always Using Your Turn Signals – You have turn signals for a reason and you need to use them. Turn signals give drivers behind you warning that you are going to merge into traffic or change lanes. When you fail to use your turn signals, you force drivers to slam on brakes or take evasive action potentially causing a collision.
• Never Honk Your Horn In Anger – If a driver is not paying attention or is about to make an error, honking your horn is suitable. However, honking your horn in rush hour traffic serves no other useful purpose because no one can go any faster even if they want to do so. Reserve your horn for situations where it can actually do some good.
• Do Not Weave In And Out Of Traffic – It may be tempting to weave between lanes because your lane is not moving; however, you are only causing yourself and other drivers aggravation. The lane that is “moving” will also slow to a stop because other drivers are jumping over just like you. Instead, stick to the lane you need to be in for your exit or turn. You do not save time by weaving in and out of traffic but you do create the potential for a collision.
• Never Use The Emergency Lane For Driving – The emergency lane is for emergencies. Driving in the emergency lane is not only illegal it is dangerous. It may be tempting to move into the emergency lane as you are nearing your exit to shave off a few seconds or minutes — do not give into the temptation.

Be Safe, Courteous, and Wise in Rush Hour Traffic

No one likes to sit in traffic; however, it is simply a fact of life when you have millions of people to move throughout California each day. If everyone focuses on the act of driving, stays calm, and refuses to give into the temptation to drive aggressively, we can avoid collisions and arrive at our destinations safely.

If you are in a car accident, remain calm and call for emergency assistance. Once you have taken care of your medical needs, consider contacting an attorney. Having an experienced car accident attorney representing you with the insurance company can greatly increase your chance of receiving a fair settlement for your accident claim.

The personal injury attorneys of Tiemann Law Firm offer free consultations so that you can get the facts regarding your legal rights.  Call (916) 999-9000 or speak with a representative online.