Would be drivers in the United States must go through some kind of driving instruction and pass a written exam and a road test before being given a license to drive.
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 drive an automobile if you have been drinking. No exceptions, no excuses.
2. Follow at a safe distance; at least two seconds behind the car in front of you. If the cars in front of you are following each other too closely, you need to be even further back.
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. Don't bet your safety that other drivers will stop at a light or sign. Always look before proceeding.
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. Maintain your car well. Be sure brakes are in top shape, do not drive on worn tires, etc.
10. Never force another driver to change speed or direction. Never.
You can't eliminate bad drivers, but you can avoid being one. - 16752
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 drive an automobile if you have been drinking. No exceptions, no excuses.
2. Follow at a safe distance; at least two seconds behind the car in front of you. If the cars in front of you are following each other too closely, you need to be even further back.
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. Don't bet your safety that other drivers will stop at a light or sign. Always look before proceeding.
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. Maintain your car well. Be sure brakes are in top shape, do not drive on worn tires, etc.
10. Never force another driver to change speed or direction. Never.
You can't eliminate bad drivers, but you can avoid being one. - 16752
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.