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| Road Rules : India versus New England |
In the July 2001 issue of Down East
magazine, there was an article about driving in Maine. It then suggested
some fine points about driving tips. Having just returned from India,
I decided that a "point-counterpoint" approach might be amusing.
To be careful, I called Down East magazine and asked for permission
to use some of the information in this article. They said, "No problem,
just give the credits."
If you are from Massachusetts, do
not despair. You will do just fine if you have to drive in India.
As a professional courtesy, Boston Taxi Drivers automatically qualify
for an India-wide taxi driver's license.
Lets compare the Rules of the Road!
|
Maine and/or Massachusetts |
India |
| It is OK to turn right on red,
after making a complete stop. |
There are no lights, red, green, yellow, nothing. Just honk
your horn many times and turn at any time. Continue to smile
and wave at everyone. |
| Please use your turn signals. |
There is no need to use turn signals. Simply watch the person
in front of you to see which way they might turn. Then, go around
them, honking enthusiastically. |
| Pedestrians have the right of way. |
Cows have the right of way. Pedestrians usually stay out of
the road. If you see one, it is considered polite to honk your
honk several times before AND after you hit them. |
| The breakdown lane is for cars that are actually
broken down, not for a shortcut to the next exit. |
There are no lanes. A breakdown "lane" would be any area occupied
by a vehicle that has not moved for several hours or a cow that
has decided to stop while crossing the street. |
| The Passing Lane is used to overtake other cars
that might be moving more slowly than you. Please stay out of
this lane if you are just cruising. |
I repeat, there are no lanes. Usually, seven or eight vehicles
will be randomly stretched across a roadway one-half the size
of Route 1. To pass another vehicle, motorbike, or gas-powered,
three-wheeled rickshaw, simply go around them on either side,
honking wildly, but with a courteous, respectful tone. |
| Roadside attractions should be visited by using your turn
signal; pulling over to the right and moving well clear of the
road. |
The entire country is a roadside attraction. There is no need
to pull over, simply slow down, roll down your window, and visit
with the nearest individual or attraction. The rest of the world
will understand and honk encouragingly as they pass you on either
side. |
| Horns are considered rude and disturb the tranquility of wildlife
or slow moving traffic on I-95. Please pretend you don't have
one. |
Horns are more important than brakes, turn signals, or gas.
They should be used continuously, though with a distinct pattern
or sequence, not unlike Morse Code. They send a series of messages
that must be interpreted by the person in front of you:
- Hello there! How's it going?
- I'm right behind you,
- Was that arm gesture a turn signal or are you just glad
to see me?
- Holy cow! Ahead on the right, left or in front of me,
- I would like to pass you on your right or left, so keep
your eyes peeled,
- I am now passing you,
- Thanks for letting me pass you,
- Nice car, motorbike, motorcycle, rickshaw, etc.
- Are you turning or just weaving through the traffic?
- Have a nice day,
- Have a heart attack,
- See you tonight at the _______________!!
|
| Road rage is not acceptable and is a clear sign that you have
been in Maine and/or Massachusetts less than 3 hours. |
There is no road rage whatsoever. Everyone is friendly and
sociable with a great attitude. Heavy traffic is a good time
to visit or socialize. Dead stop traffic is always a great time
to meditate or practice your deep breathing. |
| Always stop for cows in the road. |
Same rule. But, if you have any snacks in the car, share them
with the cow. He could be your great-great-great grandfather.
|
Have fun and drive safely, wherever
you go!!!
By: Not Available
Date: Not Available
Source: http://www.cybersteering.com/cruise/feature/safety.html
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