4/09/01 oral

Motorist to Motorist Communication (p.171-173)

The main point of this passages states that drivers must inherently be aware of each other and keep track of each other in order to avoid some kind of accident. It is unsaid as to what the rules are, and it is given that drivers are able to decide between themselves as to who goes first and who gets the right of way. Current ways of communication are hand gestures, for example the hand wave. Yet, there are pressures on creating more universal and contingent communication expansion. The in the late 1980’s, the National Motorist Association proposed several new motorist signals.

1. The apology- giving a V sign.
2. Slow down, danger ahead-warning others of danger by turning the headlights on and off.
3. Lane courtesy-flashing headlights to inform others of lane change
4. Pull over- pointing out problem to the driver who is unaware.
5. Light problem-closing and opening your hand to show light problem
6. Needing assistance-making a T sign to inform you need help.
7. I understand and thank you-thumbs up and ok

Several organizations promoting road safety with the use of signs. It is predicted that by promoting such use of signs, motorist communication will increase.

I was sort of laughing at the suggestions. But then again, I agree that communication is very important. Even though we make it mandatory to learn to communication before going on to drive the bigger issue still needs to be solved. There still needs to be education on self-awareness to prevent aggressive driving. A person who is angry and impulsive is just as likely to react negatively through hand signals. Who can’t recognize the "bird" when they get it?