Obstacle Course Driving

Forget the orange cones. Forget the driver's ed car. Forget parking lot challenges. The true obstacle course is on the nearest roadway.

There is a lever on your car, near the steering wheel, that moves up and down. When you move it up, an arrow flashes in your left rear light indicating you want to turn left. When you move it down, an arrow flashes in your right rear light.. You get the idea. Instead of stopping in the middle of the road then signaling your intent, you should use that lever 20 seconds earlier.

On every road (or at least most) there are lines. White or yellow. Dashed or solid. Regardless of their appearance, think of the lines as walls. You must keep your vehicle within the walls. C'mon, if the fastest people in the world can run full speed inside lines less than a foot wide, you can handle your car.

I know there is a speed limit. I know that exceeding that limit by say 20 mph is potentially dangerous. However being 20 mph below that limit can be equally dangerous. Remember to be safe and always drive at about the same speed as everyone else. If all the cars are passing you by, maybe you should pull over and regroup.

Now for all my drivers out there, let's take a moment to bond. At least 78% of women can't drive. At least 87% of people above the age of 60 can't drive. We know its true. I mean they can pass the driving test, but they consistently get too close to the curb. Nearly kill pedestrians on a daily basis. Honk at good drivers. Brake as they approach green lights. And remain happily oblivious. For all of us cognzant of this nightmare, if you are a passenger in such a vehicle, I suggest you buckle up, find your happy place, and pray.

Just take every obstacle course experience as a test of your reflexes and an opportunity to hone your superior skills on the road.