Rise Above And Drive Safe

To the Editor:

I never thought I’d see a letter in The Newtown Bee that was written about a subject that many (and it’s good to see I’m not alone) deal with every day Turn Signals – or the lack thereof.

I agree with some of Mr Krause’s conclusions of Turn Signals non-use, but I have come to my own conclusion that I think is the bottom line: a great many people just don’t care about anyone other than themselves.

I pride myself on trying to drive safely and giving the other person on the road the respect he or she deserves. I try to reflect that respect by letting everyone know my intentions. I use my blinker every time I switch lanes, turn on a different street, turn in parking lots. Anytime I make a turn I even use them when there is no one around (habit).

I have heard all the excuses: I was thinking of something else, I was in a hurry, I didn’t have the time, I was on my cell phone (subject which I won’t get into).

Have you ever found yourself in the fast lane on the highway, you have your turn signal on to move to the center lane and another person in the slow lane wants to come into the same middle lane at the same time? The only problem is they are coming over and they don’t care if you or anyone else knows it. No turn signals! I think a lot of people fear if  they use their signals it gives the other drivers “Advanced Notice” and they will lose their opportunity.

How many accidents could be avoided if people cared enough to use their signals?

SUV’s (land barges) (yet another subject).

It all comes down to respect for other people if you find yourself swearing at other people that don’t use their signals and then say “so why should I use mine,” aren’t you now no better than they are?… Rise above and drive safe.

Fred Gruendig

6 Plumtree Road, Newtown                                        January 16, 2001