BETTER DRIVING ETIQUETTE

Never use your horn as a rebuke
So somebody’s nipped in front of you out of the blue without signalling. Tempting to get annoyed and let them feel the full force of your wrath, isn’t it? But just because someone else is a rude driver, doesn’t mean you should vent your own anger by thumping on your horn. As the highway code stipulates, you should never use your horn as a rebuke.

Indicate when changing lanes on the motorway
There are few more frustrating things than people weaving from lane to lane on the motorway or dual carriageway. It only takes a quick flick of the finger to turn your indicator on and off and is respectful and safe to other traffic.

Temper the volume of your music
Noise pollution can be as equally upsetting as exhaust fumes from stationary cars. Be respectful of pedestrians in built up areas by turning down your car stereo when stationary. Not everybody shares the same taste in music as you!

Flashing is rude!
There is another kind of flashing that is extremely rude, not to mention dangerous. Never flash your headlights at somebody, no matter how much of a hurry to get pas you’re in. When you’re close to another vehicle, the strength of a car’s beams can be blinding, so bide your time until an opportunity appears. Also remember to dip your beam when a car approaches from the opposite direction.

Obey speed limits
It sounds simple, but so many people treat the national speed limits with contempt. Going 5mph over isn’t necessarily the biggest crime in the world, but excessive speeding not only jeopardises your licence, but the safety of you and other motorists.

Don’t amber gamble
It’s a pain when you reach the traffic lights just as they’re changing, isn’t it? Why not just slip on through under the amber light? The amber light is there for a reason and it’s to give pedestrians ample time to complete their road crossing.

«Back to Motoring home