[james698henry]

In today’s fast-paced world, driving has become more about getting from point A to B than enjoying the journey. But as technology advances and distractions increase, are we losing the basic courtesies that once defined good driving? From failing to use turn signals to tailgating and aggressive lane changes, many drivers seem to forget that the road is a shared space. This discussion invites everyone—new drivers, seasoned motorists, and even passengers—to reflect on how driving behavior has changed over the years. Are smartphones and navigation apps helping or hurting our focus? Is road rage more common now than before? And what small habits can we adopt to make driving safer and more respectful for everyone? Share your thoughts, experiences, and tips for better road etiquette. Let’s bring back the human side of driving and make our roads a more pleasant place to be.

[Rolebama]

I come down on the side of thoughtlessness and ignorance rule the roads. Locally, etiquette and manners have all but disappeared. Unfortunately, this seems to be the same in all areas that I drive.
As to satnavs and smartphone use, I definitely see too many motorists fiddling with them, also built-in multimedia systems. I put this down to the powers-that-be allowing cars to have this stuff built-in, and then making matters worse by adding touch screens.
As to road rage: There is a tourist attraction near me, and at this time of year it gets very busy. The Council-run website for it announces quite glibly that there is ample parking. There is not. Almost every weekend there are fisticuffs between enraged motorists over parking disputes. To the point where last weekend there was a Police presence all over last weekend. Part of the problem is because it is at the end of a cul-de-sac with residents cars parked so it doesn't take long before those who are trying to get out, having failed to find a parking spot, are hemmed in by those trying to get in, and can't get out to try to park elsewhere.

[Drivingforfun]

Losing??

You're being optimistic 😆

[olduser]

I have probably overstayed my welcome posting on this subject (driving philosophy) in other threads.

What we see and experience on the road is a reflection of modern life, the world of 'me'.
Helped on by Margret Thatcher, who was certain there was no such thing as society, and set about destroying it.
There is a trailer on the BBC News channel showing part of a Tracy Emin (she of the unmade bed exhibit) interview that about sums it up, her reply to an (un-shown question) is, "You don't do what others want you to do, you do what you want to do".
OK, she may have been talking about art but somehow it sums up modern times in the UK.

We no longer teach children how to live in a society, we haven't time, at school everything is focused on passing exams so they can get the best jobs paying the highest wages for the least amount of work.
We don't want them to have to join those terrible people who work with their hands!
There are some, who feel they are letting their children down so they get them a Smart Phone, it keeps them out of the way.

😎 Rules of the road, nah 'do what you want to do', all that Highway Code stuff is just to make it hard to pass your test, speed limits are for those who cant drive, I can do at least twice any limit without any problems.
You say it can be dangerous but I am never dangerous, it's all perfectly safe it's the fools who get in my way that are dangerous! 😎

Next Sundays sermon will be base on psalm ...

[Rolebama]

@olduser I have to agree with your post above, but would add that it seems that the 'whatever I want, I want it now' also seems to apply to getting to 'my' destination, in whatever fashion I want, is far more important than whatever anybody else wants.

[NMNeil]

With a few exceptions there is the same amount of road space now as there was decades ago, but there are a lot more cars who want to use that road space all at the same time, and this results in friction, where many motorists believe that reducing the number of cars on the road will cure the problem, but not their car of course, just everyone else because they 'need' their car but others can take the bus instead.
But inconsiderate parking and driving is nothing new 😁

[olduser]

The same problem but a different aspect; (found on the BBC internet news)

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c4gd8ngjde2o

I would have thought it is obvious when catching up with slow moving large vehicle;

What are the road markings advising? (white lines - they give warning of fixed hazards ahead, use them and any road signs)
If clear prepare to overtake, if not settle in behind until noted hazard is passed.

The overtake, position so you can see the large vehicles mirrors. (otherwise it's driver cannot see you)
Signal - Look well ahead, far enough to be able to see there is sufficient space for you to overtake safely and some to spare.
Be sure nothing behind you is about to overtake.
If all safe then GO, accelerating hard to minimise time in danger.
Return to the correct side of the road when well passed, do not cut in leave ample room.

Notes - If you give the large vehicle a chance (show yourself, and your intentions are clear) most will help, when they can see there is adequate space to overtake they will often move over left and/or signal left but the final responasbuility/choice is yours not theirs.
Many will also signal, (flash of headlights) you can pull in when the overtake is done.

If you decide to follow, move back away from the large vehicle this is much more comfortable and the large vehicle driver can see you in their mirrors.
I know some idiot may well jump into your gap but we already know what he is!

Final thoughts, only people with blue lights have an urgent need to get there, we do not have that urgency, and a few minuets following rates far higher than sorting out insurance details at the best or getting involved with ambulances and police.

[olduser]

I could not Edit the above - In the paragraph 'Notes' where I am talking about the large vehicle driver may assist.
I should have included - if the driver can see there is no chance of an overtake and you look to him as though you might try, he may shift over to the right (blocking the road) or/and signal right.
Take heed of this warning.