10 Basic Rules of Courtesy and Safety

• Always allow extra travel time. Traffic congestion–and the delays it causes–are among the primary factors that lead motorists to drive aggressively. By leaving extra travel time, you will be less inclined to drive aggressively in order to make up for time lost in congestion.
• Maintain an adequate distance from the vehicle in front of you so you’re able to stop in time to avoid a collision. A “safe distance” depends on a variety of factors: weather, road conditions, time of day, and speed limit. In general, you should maintain one car-length between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you for every 10 mph of speed.
• Always signal your intentions to other drivers when turning and changing lanes.
• Always come to a full stop at red lights and stop signs. Don’t run yellow lights.
• Let other drivers merge with you.
• Obey posted speed limits.
• Concentrate on your driving–not on your cell phone, stereo, passengers, or other distractions.
• Use your horn sparingly, only to remind other drivers of your presence.
• Never engage in inappropriate behavior such as making faces or rude or obscene gestures.
• Extend common courtesy to other drivers at all times.