Shop Talk: Driver pledges

Sat., Nov. 25, 2006

Greg Zyla King Features Syndicate

Several readers have asked about reprinting our driver pledges that ran years ago. Here you go:

“1. I pledge to merge properly when entering an expressway or highway. Many drivers come to a complete stop — even with 1,500 feet of merging lane open to them — backing up traffic. Oncoming drivers will allow you to merge, so please don’t stop unless absolutely necessary.

“2. I pledge to obey city speed limits: Nothing is worse than someone speeding down a residential street. Pets are routinely hit, and worse yet, pedestrians become hapless victims. Watch those speed-limit signs, and keep your eyes on those kids.

“3. I pledge to enter the intersection when making a left-hand turn: Don’t you just love it when a car sits at a red light for three or four cycles because the driver refuses to move a few feet forward into the intersection to make a left turn? These people could have gone on one light — completing their turn on the yellow when the other lane stops. But no, they sit, and sit, and sit.

“4. I pledge to wear my seat belt: It’s the law. Seat belts save lives, period.

“5. I pledge to listen to my car: Vehicles can talk, and give off certain messages. Squealing belts, valve lifters tapping, brake squeaking, engine misses and lots more can be heard way before the problem escalates to breakdown proportions.

“6. I pledge to be considerate: Many drivers don’t give the appreciative wave as a thank you for a driving courtesy. Others give outright dirty looks or hand gestures if they don’t like what you do. Treat drivers with respect, and be patient with elderly drivers.

“7. I pledge not to drive when tired: Pull over at a rest stop, have a coffee or take a nap. You’d be surprised how many accidents occur because a driver is falling asleep, or is asleep.

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