There are all kinds of lessons you can read on how to be a better trackday driver, or how to become a pro drifter, or how to enter local rallies. But here's something you could actually use: how to make your highway commute a little more bearable.
10.) Save The Left Lane For Passing
I know you like looking out at clear highway in front of you. I know you think that it's fine to go five over the limit when you're camped in the left lane. But there are half a dozen cars behind you and they're gonna have to pass you on the right.
Stick to the right and save the left lane for passing, particularly if you're in a state that will ticket you if you don't. The above map should help.
Suggested By: Shane Elliot, Photo Credit: MIT, August Chronicle, NHTSA
9.) Zipper Merge
Here's a simple primer on the most efficient way to merge when approaching construction or any abrupt lane closure, the Zipper Merge. Don't slow way down. Merge in at a good speed, do it as late as you can, and you'll help prevent traffic jams.
Suggested By: Oliver, Photo Credit: Daniel Oines
8.) Look Further Down The Road
When you look farther ahead of you, you see cars changing lanes earlier, you see your exit coming up earlier, you see accidents happening earlier. It's a little trick that means fewer surprises for you, more time to react, and less drama behind the wheel for everyone involved.
Suggested By: The Scrambler, Photo Credit: CountryLemonade
7.) Keep A Gap To The Car In Front
This one goes right along with looking further ahead — if you leave more space between you and the car in front, it gives you have more time to react to sudden changes. What's more, leaving a good gap in front of you lets you smooth out the stop-and-go of bumper-to-bumper traffic.
Suggested By: teampenske3, Photo Credit: CountryLemonade
6.) Don't Rubberneck
If someone is on the side of the road and doesn't need your help, give them space and don't slow down to stare. That sets off a traffic jam much bigger than you realize.
Suggested By: MixItUp, Photo Credit:
5.) Turn Off Your High Beams
Do you like getting blinded by oncoming cars with their brights on? No, you do not. So don't do it to other people.
Suggested By: stevethecurse, Photo Credit: Christian Fronseco
4.) Don't Give Up Your Right Of Way
The Ten Best Ways To Become A More Courteous Driver