Common Traffic Violations and Their Impact on Safety

As a former driving instructor and examiner, I've had the privilege of witnessing and educating countless drivers on the importance of safe driving practices. However, I am guilty of a few personal habits on the road that might surprise you. Let's explore some common traffic violations and their consequences.

Exceeding the Speed Limit and Urban Driving Habits

One of the most consistent violations I've noticed, and one that I've indulged in from time to time, is not braking early enough. This often happens when driving in rush hour traffic, where cars are moving slower than the posted speed limit. In my high truck, I have a more expansive view, leading me to believe I have ample time to react. Yet, as my wife often points out, my judgment can occasionally be off, especially when surrounding traffic is moving more slowly.

Drifting into Non-Essential Traffic Lanes

While driving home in Manhattan, I consistently use the bike lane as a shortcut to turn into my street, even though there is no legal requirement to do so. There have been instances where parked cars' doors have suddenly opened, bringing me close to a collision. Once I started turning into the street within the bike lane, this behavior became a habit, one that seemed to ease my nervousness about parking differences.

Coasting Through Red Lights

Perhaps the most notable violation I engage in is coasting through red lights. This habit has earned me the nickname "that guy." The temptation to speed through a green light and coast as far as possible is strong, particularly on wide open city streets. However, allowing myself to coast through a red light can be a significant risk.

At slow speeds, it can save a few seconds. Yet, as the light changes to yellow, the driver behind is often provoked to tailgate or swerve closely to the point of flashing lights in annoyance. Sometimes, out of frustration, they accelerate past me, only to pull back into my lane at the last minute, increasing the chance of a rear-end collision.

The Danger of Rush Hour Escalation

The reality is that city streets are not designed for high-speed drives. The purpose of these traffic lights is to facilitate controlled movement and prevent chaos. When drivers disregard these lights, they create a dangerous and unpredictable environment for everyone involved.

In conclusion, while driving habits like not braking early, using bike lanes as shortcuts, and coasting through red lights may provide temporary relief from traffic, the risks they pose should not be overlooked. Safe driving practices are not just about adhering to laws, but also about ensuring the overall safety of all road users.

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Further Reading and Discussion

For more insights on safe driving practices and the importance of respecting traffic laws, consider exploring articles and resources on:

Driving Safety Tips Avoiding Common Traffic Violations Best Practices for Road Safety