🚀 go-pugleaf

whorning@pipeline.com (Walt Horning) wrote:

>The truly aggressive driver *does* act irrationally. But speeding,
>tailgating and even reckless driving does not automatically make a
>driver "aggressive."

I don't think anyone is suggesting that's the case. 

>For example, exceeding the limit is not "speeding" until its
>"reckless,"

This is obviously not a legal definition.  Where I'm from 'reckless'
is the wanton disregard for life and property and the fine is a
minimum of $500 and a court appearance is mandatory whereas speeding
is a $60 or $100 fine if mailed in.

>Also, tailgating is not a sign of the aggressive driver.

I agree.  With some it obviously is however many tailgaters are simply
ignorant of how dangerous their act is.

>In rush hour,
>85% of all drivers are 1-2 car lengths apart at 60-70 mph, when they
>should be 6-7 car lengths. They stay close together so that they do
>not "lose their place in line," while trying to pass slower traffic.

And hope nothing bad happens.  If it does, it's pileup time. :-]

>So recklessness has to be deliberate to make a driver "aggressive."

In the end it really makes little difference since (here at least)
there is no charge for 'agressive' driving.  The motorist is charged
with the specific violations and intent is not necessary in order to
prove them in a court of law.  On the other hand if intent can be
shown, and sometimes it can, the charge can be upped to something more
serious.

>The reason I am pointing this out is that often "self-righteous"
>assholes "hog" the left lane and cause certain out-of-control people
>to do stupid and/or aggressive things when driving.

They keyword in your statement is 'certain' and you are right.  Not
everyone loses their self control to the point of doing something
stupid.  Sure, the left lane hog is a problem, but their stupidity
isn't an excuse for anyone else to respond with stupidity.  All that
does is put two assholes on the road instead of one.


ef

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