- There are a number of mountain highways in western Oregon, crossing the Coast Range. These highways are usually one lane each direction, with the occasional passing lane. Many drivers are apparently confused about the purpose of the passing lanes. Few things irk me more than the driver who travels 50 MPH when the road is winding areas, accumulating an impressive tail of cars and trucks behind them, then revs up to 65 MPH for the passing lane, but backs off to 50 again once the passing lane ends. Dude! Get a clue! If you want to travel 50, that's just fine, but stay at 50 once you hit the passing lane. That way, those of who want to travel faster won't be climbing up your rear end when the lane ends.
- As cranky as I sound, however, I'm not going to comment on drivers with cell phones. I've been known to use one, and I'll continue to do so. Common sense is the rule.
- It is interesting to notice, however, how many of the truly dangerous drivers are smokers. This was pointed out to me in a ticket-avoidance class in California long ago. People who smoke clearly do not care about societal restrictions and warnings, and that naturally manifests itself in their driving. Speed limits are for mortals, right?
Tim's Web Log #3
Thoughts and opinions of an opinionated person
Thoughts and opinions of an opinionated person
Thu, 19 Feb 2004
Clues for Oregon Drivers, Part II
Here are some MORE clues for Oregon drivers, after some experiences this
weekend.
# From pril at Thu Apr 1 12:02:32 2004:
re: Smokers. That depends on what they are smoking doesn't it?
Stoned people consistently go 20 mph below the speed limit. Which brings us back to #1 on your list.
Something i've noticed since i moved here from AZ: Red lights mean nothing. I've watched a line of 5 or 6 cars run the red on left turn lights. WTH?
# From J.D. at Thu Apr 1 12:54:54 2004:
As a native Oregonian, I never know whether or not to take offense at anti-Oregon driving rants. Your points are well made, of course, so I have no complaints.
There are bad drivers here, as there are everywhere, but most drivers are average. There do seem to be pockets, however, in which the driving is worse than other areas.
I live around Portland. I maintain that by far the worst drivers are in the Beaverton area. They're aggressive almost to a point that they remind me of driving on California freeways. I don't care for it... :(
# From Tim at Fri Apr 2 10:23:06 2004:
J.D., remember that I am a native Oregonian as well. I'm not commenting as an outsider.
Aggressive driving does not always mean bad driving. I spent 10 years driving in California, and although the drivers are aggressive, at least they are (for the most part) predictable. It's the unsure and unpredictable driver that causes accidents.
