Discussions

In light of past discussions about Brandon drivers that clearly obtained a license by sheer luck, here's a little tutorial:  
 
1. Signs - There's these pole thingys sticking out of the ground on the side of the road and on top of them are all kinds of cool shapes made of metal with weird markings on them. They are called signs. Some have numbers on them telling you what is called, a speed limit. In your vehicle you will find a circle of numbers. All you have to do is play the match up game. Remember everyone, a professional, somewhere, in some magical land, decided on these speed limits so that drivers could follow them and be safe. If you can't remember going to a class where you decide what's an acceptable speed, that means you didn't.  
 
2. Gas/Break pedals - on the floor of your vehicle there are two pedals. The one located on the right initiates and maintains the speed of your vehicle. As discussed in point 1, you press your foot on this pedal until the numbers match. The break is a wonderful and magical pedal. It allows your vehicle to stop when you put your foot on it. Feel free to use this well in advance when approaching those sign thingys and behind other vehicles as well for traffic lights and various other occasions.  
 
3. The indicator - The indicator is a long forgotten function in vehicles. Never heard of it? Do not be alarmed. Every vehicle comes equipped with one. It is located on the left of the steering wheel. It can be moved downward or upward. In the downward position it makes the left side of your exterior lights blink. It is used for when you are turning left, or moving your vehicle to a left lane. In the upward position, the right side of your exterior lights blink and is used for turning right and moving your vehicle into right lanes. This indicator allows you to have a conversation with other vehicles so that you can communicate to other drivers as to where you would like to go. It is not good practice to change lanes and then use your indicator. It should be used BEFORE you make the action.  
 
4. Paying attention - Your eyes should always be on the road in front of you, or checking your mirrors for cars around you. Now I know what your thinking, 'that's what those mirrors are for?' yes, indeed, that's why they're there. You should never 'mult-task' while driving. If this were a good idea, your driving instructor from your learning days would have effectively taught you how to do so.  
 
5. Courtesy - In this instance, the phrase 'treat others the way you want to be treated' greatly applies. If you notice someone is indicating to go into the lane you're in, speeding up is not the proper way to handle the situation. You should allow them plenty of room to safely come into your lane. If there is another driver who is breaking points 1 - 5, you should not give them 'the finger'. You should concern yourself with keeping you and your passengers safe from harm and if the situation calls for it, report the driver to authorities. Unfortunately, you're not a superhero, and it's not your job to see to it that the driver be aware of his or her mistakes.  
 
Remember, no one is a perfect driver everyone makes a mistake now and then.