Car Talk Guide to Civil Driving

Having driven in many different countries, the ones that leave the most pleasant memories are the ones where EVERYONE OBEYS THE RULES, which makes for low stress driving. Germany and Switzerland stand out as places I enjoyed driving even though the speeds in Germany were a little frightening. British roads are very crowded, but the high level of driver competence and general courtesy of drivers makes it a nice experience.

In Holland there are numerous bicycles sharing the road with cars, yet it all moves harmoniously. By contrast, India is intitutionalized anarchy since everyone breaks the rules. Most Asian countries turn driving into a Formula 1 exercise, and breaking rules is the norm. Hong Kong, Bangkok, Bejing, and Manila are prime examples.

Theoretically, the US should have the easiest driving environment; good wide roads with shoulders, relatively new cars, most drivers are literate and did not “buy” their licence. Unfortunately, US drivers have an entitlement mentality combined with lower than world class driving skill levels. This results in poor driving habits with lack of attention to traffic conditions, performing all manner of other activities while driving (I’ve seen a woman floss her teeth and steer with her elbows!), and being generally rude with repect to others on the road. Only in small towns where everyone knows each other do you see courteous driving and a high level of adherence to rules.

Common courtesy combined with obeying the rules make for less stressful driving and no doubt benefits the vehicle as well!