What makes a Good Driver?

Cool1Net6 · 12-03-2005, 09:22 PM

We all know there are alot of bad drivers out there. We have seen, heard, and probably have been hit by one of them. My question is What makes a Good Driver? Is it driving the speed limit, having two hands on the wheel, what is your criteria for a good driver?

-Cool-

PurdueGuy · 12-03-2005, 10:01 PM

In no particular order:

-alertness. actually paying attention to what the heck's going on.

-understanding of the car's abilities and limitations. Lets the driver push it to do what's necessary, but not try to push it to do what it can't.

-emotional stability. not freaking out in tough situations.

-communication. Using signals so other people don't run into you.

-good reaction time. (most) old fogies need not apply for the "best driver" award.

-understanding the nature of traffic. they go with the flow of traffic, or close enough to it not to be a hazzard.

I'm sure there are plenty more...

AdamSL2 · 12-03-2005, 10:34 PM

It all about being aware of what the people around u are doing.

redturtle98 · 12-04-2005, 12:36 AM

I also say beware of other drivers and your surroundings. Drive according to weather. Turn signals turn signals! So many around here don't use them. I think they don't know what they are and when they see them they are wondering what they are..lol.

PurdueGuy · 12-04-2005, 02:55 AM

Just got back from driving around in the snow, and it makes the use of turn signals all the more important. Trying to keep a good distance from the person in front of you, if someone's going to come in front of you from another lane, they could at least tell you about it.

scottyr94 · 12-04-2005, 03:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PurdueGuy

Just got back from driving around in the snow, and it makes the use of turn signals all the more important. Trying to keep a good distance from the person in front of you, if someone's going to come in front of you from another lane, they could at least tell you about it.

That is exactly my thoughts Jon. I was cut off today while it was snowing heavily by someone changing lanes without a signal and then decided to turn onto a side street without using their signal. I was driving my truck with a heavy snowblower in the back and needless to say I could not stop in time and slid into the back of the car at a decent rate of speed. The lady got out and proceeded to blame me and called the cops and they looked at it and ruled out my fault. I'm soooo happy I have no damage. My front toe hooks and bumper pretty much demolished her taillights. Lol, I win!

Coldsolderjoint · 12-04-2005, 06:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PurdueGuy

In no particular order:

-communication. Using signals so other people don't run into you.

.

you mean hand signals like the bird?

PSH! we dont need turn signals.. they just give away your next carefully planned move.

Ever try the "Jersey Slide"?

gn85 · 12-04-2005, 03:08 PM

What makes a good driver?? The LACK of a cell phone in your hand!! I know I may get some crap on that one, but I think that greatly lends to the lack of awareness. Can't tell you how many times I've had close encounters with people who feel they need to chit-chat on the phone.

PurdueGuy · 12-04-2005, 05:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gn85

What makes a good driver?? The LACK of a cell phone in your hand!! I know I may get some crap on that one, but I think that greatly lends to the lack of awareness. Can't tell you how many times I've had close encounters with people who feel they need to chit-chat on the phone.

+1 I think there are times when you're just cruising in light traffic that it's not too bad to use a hands-free set, but if you're in city traffic, or heavy traffic, leave the phone alone.

Coldsolderjoint · 12-04-2005, 11:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PurdueGuy

Quote:

Originally Posted by gn85

What makes a good driver?? The LACK of a cell phone in your hand!! I know I may get some crap on that one, but I think that greatly lends to the lack of awareness. Can't tell you how many times I've had close encounters with people who feel they need to chit-chat on the phone.

+1 I think there are times when you're just cruising in light traffic that it's not too bad to use a hands-free set, but if you're in city traffic, or heavy traffic, leave the phone alone.

meh.. the cell phone is the second thing i grab!

1. keys
2. cell phone
3. seatbelt
4. shifter

ever try flying a plane while talking on the cell phone?