Wednesday, June 28, 2006

Use Your Turn Signals, Please!

I am very frustrated over the fact that most drivers are not using their turn signals. After all, it's really not a hard concept. Let's review, shall we? The long thingy sticking straight out of the left side of your steering column is called a turn signal stalk. When you need to make a turn, you move this turn signal stalk up or down to actuate blinking lights on your vehicle. This gives everyone else on the road a clue that you will be maneuvering your vehicle in some fashion to the left or the right. I would have to believe that this device has been installed in vehicles for over 60 years.

During my 100+ mile daily round-trip commute, I can't even keep track of how many times I've seen such blatant inconsiderate non-use of the turn signal. Most times I've noticed that the driver is on the cell phone. Hmmm, that's another juicy topic for a different post, but I digress...

I realize that New Jersey has a reputation for it's rude drivers. I'm sure that you've all read or heard all the jokes. However, it doesn't have to be that way. These things take time to turn around (no pun intended), but we need to start somewhere. It's a slow, but sure process. So, let's get off the cell phone, and let's make a conscious effort to use the turn signal on your vehicle.

Since this is my inaugural post on my newly created blog, I would like to clarify a few things:
(a) I am a true native New Jerseyan that has been driving these roads since 1978.
(b) I practice what I preach. So there's no need for anyone to say to me, "So who died, and left you in charge?"
(c) I practice safety at work and at home. This includes driving.
(d) I don't claim to be perfect. I will admit to keeping up with traffic, but I also don't do anything stupid.

OK, folks. Now it's your turn. I look forward to your comments - good, bad, or indifferent...