Driving in the Copper State

A lot of fuss is made locally about Utah drivers. I've lived in California, Washington DC area, and Utah. I'm not sure that we are any different here than anywhere else. It seems the biggest problems arise when there are big differences in driving styles on the road. We do have that here. A couple of observations (I will probably add to these):


• There seems to be a hierarchy among drivers here as to what traffic laws are more important. From observation driving the speed limit is more important than stopping at red lights (or yellow lights). It is very common to be stuck behind someone doggedly obeying the limit, who then, when they notice the signal changing, proceeds through on the yellow or the red, effectively blocking you from making it through the light. I ride a bicycle a lot. If you do this enough you begin to think about conserving energy and trying to "make lights." This has carried over into my driving. I'd be willing to bet that more accidents are caused by people running red lights than by simply speeding.
• Also because of cycling, I'm trying to think a long way down the road. What is my next move? Where do I need to be? It appears most drivers aren't sleeping. They're just not engaged. Driving is a proactive activity, not casual. You have to constantly scan your field of view. Know where the five closets cars are and what they are doing or going to do. Anticipate. Most Utah drivers have no idea what their own next move is, let alone anyone else on the road.
  
• Don't block the fast lane or the slow lane. Now, most of our freeways are only three lanes so take this within reason otherwise everyone will be in the middle lane. Also keep in mind the middle lane is the least safe because you have less room to maneuver. If you don't have to be in the slow lane, don't. Leave the space for people who need to exit or enter the road. Don't camp out in the fast lane if you are not the fastest one on the road. Don't try to block people who are speeding. That's not your job.
• Blind spots. Don't "camp out" in somebody's blind spot. It's the most dangerous place to be on the road.
• It is the inferred duty of every driver to encumber traffic as little as possible. Be alert! When the light turns green, go! There are only so many of us who can get through while it is green.