Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

John B — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 19:30:09 GMT

Or maybe people just like to drive fast and it has nothing to do with being macho or manly. Driving fast doesn't mean you have to drive stupid, and I think it's just as likely that people driving BELOW the speed limit cause an equal number of accidents as SOBER drivers driving ABOVE the speed limit. If you don't like someone driving fast behind you, GET OUT OF THE WAY. Especially if you're in the left lane people c'mon, learn how to drive.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Julie — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 19:49:53 GMT

Why should I, a driver who obeys the speed limit, have to "Get out of the way"? No offense but other peoples drive home from work is no more important or pressing than mine. I hate it when a preson who wants so bad to speed will ride your bumper and take the chance on passing you in a no passing zone, just to get ahead. If making fun of their manhood will do the trick Ill post it on my bumper so they can see it!

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Craig C — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 19:51:21 GMT

"I think it's just as likely that people driving BELOW the speed limit cause an equal number of accidents as SOBER drivers driving ABOVE the speed limit"

Im glad you think that however you are completely wrong, most accidents happen due to high speeds, and speed ALWAYS translates into a higher risk of death.

However I agree that slow drivers are realy annoying, they dont usually cause accidents, instead they tend to upset the person behind them enough that the individual makes a stupid mistake.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Steve K. Borculo, Michigan — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 20:05:55 GMT

One basic way to lower gasoline consumption (anywhere in the world) is to drive no faster than the posted speed limits. If none are posted, drive at a sensible speed.

Not only can we save fossil fuel supplies until suitable replcement energies are found, we can also make the roadways safer from those who believe that driver's obeying those limits shuld move so that he can speed, thereby adding to fossil fuel consuption and all of the associated detriments.

Please note, the left hand lanes are governed by the same speed limits as any and all other lanes. "Learning how to drive" also implies that one understands the concept of speed limits.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Chad B, San Marcos TX — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 20:42:43 GMT

[Shakes his pinky at John B.]

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

1337 h4x — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 20:44:19 GMT

I think it's funny to see all the small little boys out there defending their childish driving habits in these responses. ^_^.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

RJ - KCMO — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 21:00:08 GMT

The dangerous ones are the ones that get on the highway, jump in the left lane, fire up the cell phone and cruise along below the speed limit not paying attention or having any courtesy. If you are not actively passing; get out of the left lane. I typically drive over the speed limit but I watch the surrounding traffic and don't screw around with eating or talking on the phone and I don't camp in the left lane.

Oh yes - Use an ash tray if you smoke, don't throw your trash out the window.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

JonB, Las Vegas — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 21:06:44 GMT

freeway left lanes are for the festest moving traffic, above or below the posted limit; by law, slow traffic should be in the right lanes, in america; driving on an uncrowded freeway in the left lane when right lanes are open or the traffic is moving at an equal pace, is technically against the law because slower traffic should keep right; it's not a matter of fuel economy, it's a matter of creating smooth traffic flow; why travel in the fast lane if you aren't moving "fast"? just get out of the way and let the traffic flow, it's a courtesy to the drivers who want to go faster, with or without keeping at the posted limit. Laissez faire, slowpokes, you aren't there to be speed police or impose your speed values on others. holding drivers back is petty, dictatorial passive aggressive driving behavior that can lead to dangerous road incidents.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Mike, Washington — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 21:14:26 GMT

My state has signs that say "Keep right except to pass." It seems like everyone who chooses to drive below the speed limit makes it a point to immediately get in the left lane as soon as the get on the freeway. There are idiots on both ends of the spectrum.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Doug A, Vancouver Washington — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 21:15:02 GMT

Laws in almost all states require you to stay out of the left hand lane unless passing another car. It is no more illegal to speed than it is to block traffic in the left lane. Both are equally important laws.

Craig's statement that most accidents happen due to high speeds is true, but omits a huge factor in most cases. The lane hopping by speeders (illegal) causes many of the wrecks, simply because the passing lane is blocked (usually also illegal) by someone who condemns speeders as law breakers, but don't condemn themselves, because they feel that law is ok to break.

Passive agressive people who stay in the passing lane, and even slow down just to show the tailgating speeder behind him "who is boss" are equally guilty and should get equal notoriety.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Ann Mosey — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 21:26:43 GMT

Three things:

1) Although the speed limit applies in all lanes, laws in most places DO require you to move out of the way of faster traffic whether or not that traffic is speeding. This is not an "optional" thing and you do NOT have the right to try to play traffic cop - period.

2) The safest speed to travel is the speed of surrounding traffic. If that's at the speed limit, fine. If it is 20mph over the limit and you're going at the limit - the problem is you. This isn't about legality - it is about who will get home safely and who won't.

3) Most vehicles on the road today get only marginally worse gas mileage at 80mph than they do at 60mph. You could get more impact out of keeping your tires properly inflated, which almost none of you do. This is NOT true for people with SUVs, vans, and so forth, but if you drive one of those, you obviously don't care about fuel economy anyway. What really kills gas mileage is acceleration, which leads back to my point about the speed of prevailing traffic: if you travel at that speed, you will be able to do less slowing down and speeding up, which will DRAMATICALLY increase gas mileage if done consistently.

I know, I know. This isn't what all those police and other authority figures tell you. That's because I'm beholden to the truth instead of the law or some other social construct put together by a bunch of attorneys, congressmen, and other control freak lowlifes.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

al from kcmo — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 21:53:22 GMT

Similarly, the real danger from drunk drivers is not the "drunk" but the sober people who carelessly place themselves in his way. If sober people would stay home where they belong, our roads would be a safer place for all the drunks to drive.

(Shaking pinky at those who speed. Excessive fuel consumption from high speeds also makes you "terrorist lovers".)

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

al from kcmo — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 21:57:01 GMT

The fuel economy difference between 80 and 60 is 20% ... for "most vehicles".

Support the troops with something more than hollow, empty words ... slow down.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Christian, Seattle WA — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 22:05:25 GMT

What a ridiculous ad campaign. Some people enjoy accelerating fast. I am not talking about speeding, but getting to the speed limit quickly. If this was illegal, they wouldn't make street legal cars that go 0-60 in 3.2 seconds. I for one love the rush it gives me getting on to an empty freeway onramp and punching it, letting all 400 horsepower pin me to the back of the seat. It is about the rush and excitement kind of like a roller coaster. And trust me my wife has no complaints.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Mike Wilson, Santa Barbara, California — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 22:26:02 GMT

It's funny to hear you guys prattle about how it's illegal to not move over for faster traffic. It's also illegal to drive over the posted speed limit. Where I live the limit is 65 with the average speed around 70. That's ok with me and I don't want to stay in the fast lane at 65- it's true that creates a hazard. But if I moved over- going 70-75- for every clown that wants to go 80-85 or faster, I'd be weaving all day in and out of lanes. Take some personal responsibility and slow down to a reasonable 70 or so. The highway isn't your personal little racetrack. One last thought- how come the macho boys don't shove slower patrons out of the way in lines at the supermarkets or stores, or breath down their necks, like they do with their vehicles? Answer- they would have to actually face the consequences rather than dash off down the highway.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Ann Onimous, Anywhere, USA — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 22:36:12 GMT

Ann Mosey pretty much nailed it. It's not the speeder that's the issue, cause he or she is already breaking whatever speed limit there is. It's the self-appointed traffic police that see it as their duty to slow them down. You're not doing anybody any favors, and that 'crazy speeder' just might be willing to take out their road rage on you. More to the point, don't force them to make any dangerous maneuvers like tailgating you, or cutting people off to get around you. If you are the person obeying the limit when everyone else isn't, you are causing the speed differential, and increasing everyone's risk around you. If there's a collision cause of that, yes, you're right and they're wrong, but it's still a collision.

Back to the topic of the ad campaign, there's a whole society and subculture centered around automobiles. Gearheads are not going to be put off by mockery, just like the emos and the goths and any other group of like minded people.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Louis, Orange Bubble, CA — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 22:38:51 GMT

Ad is simply more pop culture bs big or small has nada to do with driving fast. So every indy driver and every weekend racer and anyone including women which, is cute that they exclude women who drive fast, have small units? Again more pop culture bs and proof that overall intellegence is diminishing. Driving fast is a beautiful thing and the love of performance is what has driven all other technologies in autos. Get over it. Those clever enough will laugh and hit the pedal on the right. Oh, and get the heck out of my way if you don't like me driving fast. Just because you can't or are scared doesn't meant I should have to deal with you going 10 under in the left lane, and what the heck are you doing driving in the left lane?

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

CMP, LA, CA — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 22:47:12 GMT

Jon B from Vegas -
I couldn't agree more with the statement you made "why travel in the fast lane if you aren't moving "fast"? just get out of the way and let the traffic flow, it's a courtesy to the drivers who want to go faster, with or without keeping at the posted limit. Laissez faire, slowpokes, you aren't there to be speed police or impose your speed values on others. holding drivers back is petty, dictatorial passive aggressive driving behavior that can lead to dangerous road incidents." Living in LA I encounter this DAILY, people drive whatever speed they want(even in the "fast lane")and don't have enough common courtesy or sense to move over so other people can get by. Slow drivers shouldn't concern themselves with people who want to drive above the speed limit - if they get a ticket for speeding, its on them. Nothing is more aggravating than sitting in traffic behind someone driving slowly and then once you finally get around them you realize there is a huge space in front of them!!!

And to Julie, your comment:
"No offense but other peoples drive home from work is no more important or pressing than mine." is exactly the type of person I'm talking about. Who are you to say that my drive home isn't important? Maybe it is to me, maybe I'd much rather be home relaxing than being stuck on the freeway behind someone like you...

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

a regular Joe from Mesopotamia — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 23:17:21 GMT

Thank you, speedy Americans. Your fast livin' gasoline habits have funded many IEDs for our use in battling the infidel occupiers.

Each time you "let all 400 horsepower pin you to the back of the seat", the extra shot of gasoline you've consumed for the "cheap" thrill has done its own small part to fund the nuclear ambitions of our Persian cousins.

Laissez faire, speedy Americans. Every man for himself. Enjoy.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Christian, Seattle WA — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 23:25:26 GMT

I thought I would mention that speeding is NOT was kills people. Idiot drivers that don't know how to drive kill people. Just look at the Autobahn for an example. They have far fewer deaths per mile of road then we do here in the US and people drive at over 200mph. Why? People there can actually drive and getting a license is very hard. There is absolutely no eating, drinking, doing your makeup, talking on your cell phone or playing with the radio while you are driving. They also have very strict lane management. The slower drivers actually stay to the right, and if they see someone coming up in their rearview mirror, they pull to the right lane.

Self righteous people driving slow in the fast lane need to get over themselves and get over. You are not a cop, nor were you assigned to patrol our freeways.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Kyle, Cincinnati, OH — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 00:09:51 GMT

I know it isn't possible for a human being to perfectly regulate themselves to drive at the exact speed limit, but you could at least keep it within five miles or ten miles on a highway.

Less likely to get pulled over by the cops. Less likely to wreck. Less likely to kill someone or be killed. Buckle up and drive the speed limit, people.

It's not rocket surgery.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Lissa, Anchorage, Alaska — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 00:56:47 GMT

Speeders need to grow up. I did. No one cares about anybody anymore. It's all about the lack of bad manners and common sense, folks.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

aaron f. tucon AZ — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 01:35:57 GMT

thats just sexist! it implies that the only people who speed are men. women speed too!

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Kurt, florida — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 03:08:35 GMT

The posted speed limtit is just that "The Posted Speed Limit" you can't go faster. We are a Nation of laws people and we agree to these laws. You will be fined and have your licensed taken from you if you keep it up.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

KB, Oklahoma — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 03:12:01 GMT

Actually, accelerating at a high rate is also illegal in most states. The law is called "Exhibition of exceleration". This law is designed mainly to catch people racing on the roadway when the officer can't prove or didn't see them actually racing, but observed the vehicle performing a rapid acceleration. The same applies for burning rubber, which is generally covered under the same statute.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Cindy Australia — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 03:48:39 GMT

I think a lot of you have missed the point of this ad.
Its about trying to get speeders to slow down and save lives!

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Kevin, Somerville, MA — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 04:34:53 GMT

Speeding quite simply increases danger for everybody on the road, as it reduces the driver's effective reaction time while also putting a deadly weapon at a much higher speed. Considering that 3x as many Americans die every year because of cars than because of firearms, one would think that individuals would put more emphasis on driving safely. Driving any way other than safely, with the utmost respect for safety above reaching the destination in time, is a selfish activity that unfairly punishes the pedestrians and drivers around you. The best solution is for everyone to back off from the bumper ahead of them, slow down to a reasonable speed, not answer the cell phone, and pay more attention to the traffic around them than the clock. I can't see how someone would survive Boston traffic otherwise.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Pesky Porker, Los Angeles, California — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 04:37:49 GMT

Ann Mosey, love your well constructed feedback. Especially the last section, totally makes sense. Too bad it doesn't make dollars like Big Oil, Big Bush and Big Chaney.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Carl — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 04:54:20 GMT

As an experienced race driver, let me say that the rule is that passing is the responsibility of the overtaking driver. Plus the legal fact that the maximum speed posted is the maximum speed. If you want to go faster than the maximum posted speed, then it's on you to change lanes and pass drivers maintaining the maximum legal speed--regardless of which lane they drive in.

If you boys that think you are men want to drive over the legal speed limit, then get your rear end out on a race track and prove how good you are. Otherwise, shut up.

By the way, I've driven over the legal speed limit and have the tickets to prove it. I just don't ewhine about it.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Christian, Seattle WA — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 05:40:29 GMT

I understand that burning rubber is illegal. But accelerating too fast. I call BS, that is way too subjective of a law, thus unconstitutional. How could they legally sell any BMW, Porche, Mercedes, Ferrari or Lamborghini...? Any lawyer worth their salt could get you out of that one. Not to mention here in Seattle I have read the statute and racing is perfectly legal as long as you don't exceed the speed limit, don't endanger anybody and don't cause "tire noise".

Want proof, check out the RCWs on the State Patrols web site. Not to mention I have let my ///M5 tear it up, up to the speed limit right in front of police and not gotten pulled over. As long as I don't cause any tire noise, they can't do anything.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

saty — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 12:11:43 GMT

only men speed ?????????/

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Janine, Albany, New York — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 12:44:35 GMT

Driving is a skill, and like most skill based activities, some people are good at it, and some people are not. Also, like any other skill, some people enjoy it more than others(in my case A LOT more than others). Seeing how fast I can take an on-ramp, or driving through switchback roads finding lines for the shortest(thus quickest) path through turns, these are just two of the "games" I play while driving. But I ALWAYS concern myself with the location of others around me. There is a time you can go fast, and a time to just meld into the "herd". Drivers need to realize that it takes all of us to be safe out there, and that means that sometimes we all have to work together. MOST IMPORTANTLY.......use your brains!!!

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Erika The Magnificent, Fleetwood P.A — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 13:21:45 GMT

Personally I dont see any problem with going over the speed limit(within reason)And it does annoy the hell out of me when you have someone on a 65 to 70 mph highway and they are going 50 with no one in front of them.I dont think the speeding is the problem or the reason to most accidents, the problem is all these drivers who want to do 90 mph while they are on thier phone, eating and driving with thier knees.Bottom line if your going to drive at whatever speed keep your hands on the wheel eyes on the road and stop stuffing your faces.
P.s They do have headsets for phones now which makes it much safer to talk when driving( just in case some of you live under rocks)

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

wb greene, Houston, Tx. — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 13:25:26 GMT

Time is money! Get the incompetent drivers and slow pokes off the road and on the bus instead! Worry more about idiots talking on the cell phone not paying attension to their driving than someone driving over the too low speed limit!

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Derek Fort Smith AR — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 13:58:33 GMT

I was going to stay out of this until I saw the post about the Autobahn. Having driven it for 3 years myself, I can attest SPEED KILLS. Most Americans don't realize that German drivers attend a driving school which costs thousands of dollars, most Americans would never pass, et al. And yet, when there is a wreck on the autobahn, there are generally lots of cars involved (dozens to hundreds) and lots of people die. Another tidbit for the speed demons in the group, speed limit does not mean "minimum bid", regardless of what lane you are occupying. Finally, my own gripe as a confirmed speeder who doesn't mind people actually obeying the law even when they are temporarily in my way, don't speed on backroads where you endanger my life, only to be the model citizen on the main roads where only your wallet is endangered... as my mechanic once said, "it costs money to go fast".

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

NGH, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 14:01:22 GMT

When you're speeding your car is most likely to lose control if a tire blows out or you hit something on the road, etc.
I don't speed because I want to get where I'm going, but not in a wheelchair.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Justin, Grand Rapids, MI — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 14:03:53 GMT

The problem with people complaining about those who travel in the "fast lane", but don't travel fast is the fact that their is no such thing as a fast lane! It is called a passing lane, and according to the law (at least in Michigan) no matter what your speed you should not be driving in the left lane unless you are actively passing another motorist. Besides who gets decide whether a particular driver is traveling fast enough to be in a "fast lane"; speed is subjective (my father in-law think that driving 75mph in a 70mph zone is excessive, but to me its no big deal).

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Cindy, Northern NJ — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 14:35:15 GMT

There is a huge difference between drivers in the US and drivers in other countries. We look at driving as a right, not a privilege. Typical thoughts of a macho (whether male or female, macho is macho) US driver? "By God don't let anyone tell ME how to drive! I only have 15 points on my license so I can go whatever speed I feel like! Get outta my way slowpoke I have to get somewhere and I'm late! Don't cut me off or I'll ram you with my car and teach you a lesson!" I've driven in cities all over this country and it doesn't matter whether the city is large or small -- they all drive the same -- aggressive. It's pretty dang sad.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Ron, Belleville, Mich. — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 15:15:33 GMT

Kyle...it's not rocket surgery? LOL. Thanks, I needed that.

Yes, speed kills. Yes, people driving slow can endanger. But remember: you are responsible for your vehicle being under control regardless of how fast you go. So please: leave the cell phones off or use a headset. 99% of people who use a cell phone while driving, can't do it safely. so leave it off. I see more dangerous driving exhibitions from cell users than anything...and if you think you are one of the 1% who can pull this off: you aren't.
Someone already mentioned the skill involved in driving. there is a skill, unfortunately, many people have yet to achieve this skill level. Driving is a simple concept: point the vehicle down the road, and press the gas pedal, pay attention to what you are doing. Simple. But evidently not easy. As Kyle said: "It's not rocket surgery"

Oh, the ad? I think it's funny and maybe it will provoke someone to slow down. Take it with a grain of salt. It's just an ad trying to promote safety. If you are bothered by it, get over it. Maybe it will save a life, maybe yours... People are too sensitive anymore.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Elliot, MD — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 15:32:06 GMT

For those of you who think just because you go the posted speed limit, its ok to drive in the fast lane, I would advise against it. Just on the grounds that you dont know why other people may be speeding. I once saw a person repeatedly block someone from going fast in the left lane. As it turned out, the person was trying to go fast to go be with someone they knew who was in a devistating accident. Its for the smoothe flow of traffic and courtesy.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Terry Las Vegas — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 15:51:43 GMT

JonB in LV... while it's true that the left lane on the freeway is for the faster drivers, the law says you're supposed to drive the posted speed limit. Don't impose your driving agression on law abiding citizens.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Daniel, Jackson, MS — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 15:55:54 GMT

Ok, for all these people that say "Speed doesn't kill," here's a hypothetical question: What if the speed limit on every road was 5 mph (it's hypothetical, people! I didn't say "practical")? How many accidents would we have if everybody obeyed the speed limit?
Answer: Few, if any.
Second question; Speed limit is 200 mph. Now what? Answer: Many wrecks, many deaths.
Simple logical conclusion: The number of accidents/deaths is directly correlated to the speed of the vehicles.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Rory, Green Bay — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 15:57:24 GMT

I drive the speed limit and most of the people I see passing me like I am standing still are young women. 50% of those are on a cell phone at the same time.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Mike M, Nebraska — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 16:08:37 GMT

You know what? I think we need to have extra driving tests to judge how fast your allowed to drive. So, if you pass all the judgement and handling tests, you can drive say 20 over the limit and get a special sticker for your window or a different plate. If you are an advanced driver, but not one of the best you can go 10 over the limit, and get a different sticker. Or, if you are a moron and don't know how to drive you are only allowed at the speed limit and no more.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Bud, Northern Virginia — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 16:17:13 GMT

It has little to do with speed and a lot to do with ability and judgement. I lived in Germany for many years (high speeds) and can tell you, for the majority, they are very capable drivers with a keen awareness and respect of what's happening around them and make sound decisions based on the state of the driving environment they're in . This goes for slow drivers too (they keep right). Having just moved back to America, I can tell you the vehicle operating majority has little awareness or respect of they're surroundings. It's a "me, me, me" free-for-all full of no driving ability, cell phone talking, burger eating, makeup applying, note taking, book reading, loud music listening stooges. It's utterly pathetic.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Elizabeth — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 16:41:46 GMT

Completely agree with Rory in Green Bay. I see the same kinds of drivers in Florida, and I think anyone speeding while talking on the phone should lose their license.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

James, Columbus, OH — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 16:56:11 GMT

"One last thought- how come the macho boys don't shove slower patrons out of the way in lines at the supermarkets or stores, or breath down their necks, like they do with their vehicles? Answer- they would have to actually face the consequences rather than dash off down the highway."

EXACTLY.

There's a big difference between getting irritated by someone unnecessarily hogging the passing lane and holding everyone back, and someone who plays lane-jockey in bumper to bumper rush hour traffic just to be selfish...

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Max K Rapid City, SD — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 17:11:35 GMT

Those who speed have no moral leg to stand on. It's a matter of integrity. If you can't be trusted with a concept as simple as the speed limit, then you can be trusted with nothing.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Erika The Magnificent, Fleetwood P.A — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 17:11:41 GMT

I agree with Mike M,I also think there needs to be additional testing for people getting older in thier years as well,too many old people mistaking the gas for the brake and driving themselves into buildings,rear ends of other cars,kitchens, living rooms etc.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

DJ - MO — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 17:14:53 GMT

Can we get back to the comment from RJ - KCMO..
What is up with smokers who throw their butts out the window?? That's trash people! Don't be an ass, put your butts where they belong!

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Rich, LA, CA — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 17:16:04 GMT

Applying my brakes for speeders and tailgaters has been very lucrative. I've been struck twice and successfully sued the arrogant morons which enabled me to pay off my home, purchase a new vehicle and retire in comfort.

Speeders and tailgaters keep up the good work. It pays well (for me anyway).

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Ashlee, Oak Ridge, TN — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 17:39:39 GMT

I find this very amusing. My husband who is a large man (6'5") drives a GMC Sonoma truck. I always laugh because he looks sooo big in his little truck. When we are out on the road it seems like we see all these kids who just graduated high school in these monstorous trucks and they look so tiny. We always assume they are, "compensating for something" as Shrek would say. I can totally see this ad working in a young market!

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

commonsense — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 17:52:08 GMT

It's the difference in speeds that causes accidents not going fast or slow. The major problem is people not paying attention while driving. Drive while you are driving and nothing else. Here in Atlanta we have a major problem with illegal aliens driving with no liscense, no insurance and no clue about traffic laws. They just changed the law to not allow registration for a tag without a Georgia drivers liscense which requires proof of legality or citizenship.
Speed limits are set very low so the government can always collect traffic fines to support the massively inefficent and often corrupt govenment.
Highway driving is done with the wheel and the throttle not the brake. Yes, you must pay attention to drive without riding your brakes as you must anticipate what it ahead of you. Try is some time you'll also get better gas mileage.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Cece from Newington, CT — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 17:52:10 GMT

In Connecticut there are many left-side off-ramps on the interstates. I do the speed limit in the left lane when I'm going for that ramp, and speeders go by me on the right at 20-30 mph faster - that's a danger to everyone in proximity. The left lane isn't just for passing - it's also for exiting the highway in congested areas. Courtesy is key - drivers should realize that we are a team - it's not a competition.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

LI - MA — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 17:55:55 GMT

Even if you're going the speed limit in the fast lane, thinking that you're driving safer than all the other fools who choose to speed, you are actually increasing the risk of an accident. It's extremely dangerous to tailgait on the high way - not moving out of the way just to piss of the person behind you bc you think they're going too fast is moronic. If you have to stop suddently, he's going to crash right into you. So get the hell out of the way and let that speeding jackass pass you. That said, if you see someone going way over the speed limit (and I don't mean 75, I'm talking like 95) and you have a problem with it, don't park yourself in their lane and endanger everyone while he/she tries to get around you - move over, get their license plate if possible, and inform the police. That, to me, is much more satisfying that watching him in your rear-view mirror getting closer and closer just bc you're not changing lanes.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

John, NYC — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 18:14:13 GMT

I juts look at this ad as another in the long line of anti male hate mongering that has become so commonplace these days. And like most good hearted and decent people, I just ignore overt sexism like that.

Will we ever see and ad about women killinmg people becuase they drive and try to aply make up at the same time? Of coarse not, our whole society is based on making women feel good about themselves, usually at the expense of men. yeah right, that's not sexism.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Emily, Waco, Tx — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 18:22:30 GMT

I agree, I drive very fast. I am chick, so I am certainly not macho or manly by any means! And I don't fail to yield, stop at sign or lights, I don't cut people off, or anything of that nature. I just drive fast b/c for some reason it is human nature to always be in a hurry to go no where!

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Max, Rapid City, SD — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 18:25:21 GMT

In the end, those that obey the posted speed limit are in the right and those that exceed it are in the wrong. Attempting to characterize law abiding drivers as "being in the way" is simple the grasping of straws by those who have no discipline.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Bob Jones — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 18:55:04 GMT

Here's a suggestion for a bumper sticker. "Go ahead and talegate me. I need a new car anyway."

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Max, Rapid City, SD — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 19:29:23 GMT

"get out of the way" is an interesting attempt (by those lacking the discipline to obey the speed limit) to place the responsibility for their own safey on others.

Speed at your own peril, but don't expect others to accomedate you.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

T D., Houston, Texas Republic — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 19:56:53 GMT

Personally I don't care how fast anyone drives...I tend to go with the flow of traffic except where I know that the speed trap is located...then I am nearer the posted limit...watching everyone fly by....and then I laugh when they're getting a ticket a half mile down the road.....

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Brian, Portland OR — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 20:29:11 GMT

""No offense but other peoples drive home from work is no more important or pressing than mine." is exactly the type of person I'm talking about. Who are you to say that my drive home isn't important? Maybe it is to me, maybe I'd much rather be home relaxing than being stuck on the freeway behind someone like you... "

The claim wasn't that your drive home isn't important. It's that your drive home isn't any more important than mine, hers, or anyone else's on the road.

If you need to get there now so badly, leave a little bit earlier. Speeders, and especially tailgaters, endager the rest of us on the road.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Dale, Houston, TX — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 21:06:46 GMT

>Why should I, a driver who obeys the speed limit, have to "Get out of the way"?

This is your ego speaking. You are saying, why should I have to change, why shouldn't he have to change? This is pure ego, and sure to get you into trouble.

You should get out of the way because you want to be safe. You want to live, you want your passengers to live.

I had a friend once who was ranting and raving about his car being in the shop for a week. When I asked why, he said he was struck by another car. He proceeded to tell me that he could have gotten out of the way because he saw it coming, but it was the other driver's fault for breaking the traffic code. He cussed that driver up and down. It was quite unattractive.

OK the other driver was at fault, but was my friend being a stupid egotist? Absolutely. He was a total jerk and a total idiot, and it was difficult to want to be his friend after that. He saw it coming, could have avoided it, and let it happen out of pure ego. Rather than complaining, he should have been thankful to be alive.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

SH, San Francisco, CA — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 21:08:04 GMT

I love how the dangerous and reckless drivers are defending their bad driving habits. This happens everday driving to and from work I'm in the passing lane passing cars, where the limit is 70, and I'm moving at about 75-80, when some 2-inch wannabe starts tailgating as if I'm doing 35. Sorry, but if 80 isn't fast enough, move the f*** over and go around...you've already been weaving your way through and cutting people off left and right like a jackass, so why stop now just to tailgate someone who is LEGALLY using the passing lane? Tailgating is one of THE most dangerous things a driver can do on the highway, especially at speeds of 70-80 mph.

And Mike from Santa Barbara, you are SPOT ON with this assessment:

"...how come the macho boys don't shove slower patrons out of the way in lines at the supermarkets or stores, or breath down their necks, like they do with their vehicles? Answer- they would have to actually face the consequences rather than dash off down the highway."

People are always tougher when they don't have to answer for their assinine behavior. No one is ever accountable in this country.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

DispatchDave, DFW, TX — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 21:09:26 GMT

I will start with admitting, in my youth I too drove fast, raced, did donuts, burnouts and the like. However, I wouldnt even have imagined doing it on public streets. And now that iam much older and am aware of the true cost (i.e burning more fuel, tickets, etc) I rarely am the "leader of the pack". I much prefer the slow lane going about the same as the flow.
With that said, I have to agree, its not the speed its the VARIANCE speed. Also self importance and impatience are big factors. In this day and age, no one seem to be aware of thier surroundings and that other people are there. they want what they want and want it NOW, whether you are there or not. I have seen more instances of the "Me and my time are more important than you" just in the past two years than all the years building up.
The "golden rule" seems to come to mind.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

RB Sidney, NE — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 21:15:47 GMT

"Oh yes - Use an ash tray if you smoke, don't throw your trash out the window." RJ KCMO

Amen!! I'm so sick of people thinking that everyone else should clean up after them! As far as speeding - I usually travel at up to 5 miles over the speed limit. However, if I need to pass, I get into the passing lane, pass the necessary car, and then GET BACK OVER INTO THE DRIVING LANE. The passing lane is called that for a reason, people. Don't continue to drive in it while a line of cars backs up behind you and then give them dirty looks when they pass you on the right. GET OVER. There are two lanes for a reason.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

C. Barnett — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 21:36:20 GMT

The ad shows males driving not only fast but recklessly and compares their need to do so on their lack of endowment. The first example is peeling out from a dead stop at a green light. (Would hate to see what happens if another car runs the red.) The second is the woman almost being nailed by a speeding car and the third is a car careening around the corner at a high rate of speed. Why is everybody commenting about throwing cigarette butts out the window, driving in Germany and special tests for people who are capable of driving fast so they can have a sticker on their car window? Someone is missing the point of the ad—don't drive like a dick because you don't have one.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Dylan, Cottage Grove, MN — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 21:56:35 GMT

I couldn't agree with you more Brian. Unfortunately those who lack the discipline to obey the speed limit are even less likely to have the discipline to manage their time and leave a bit earlier.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

skipper — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 21:57:49 GMT

why doesn't someone figure out at what speed no one would be killed when in an accident and then set all speed limits to that level. ha ha even the slow pokes would find something wrong with that. and as far as more people dying from cars than guns lets ban cars while we're at it. again ha ha. i have to agree that BAD drivers are the problem and its not always the speeders...its usually the people who think they're the center of the universe.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Josh, Houston, TX — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 22:10:25 GMT

The problem with speed limits is that they're artificially low. While this doesn't matter so much in some areas, in others, it causes more traffic. If everyone went the speed limit, traffic would, on average, be worse than it is otherwise. That being said, people who choose to drive recklessly (often its those who go too fast or too slow), cause accidents. But 70-75 in a 65? Not a problem.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Murf the Surf.....Fort Lauderdale. — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 22:41:24 GMT

First off,the outside lane is a passing lane,NOT a driving lane.
Second,looking at all the comments here,whats missing here seems to be a complete
lack of ANY road manners.
Having ridden motorcycles and cars,I totally agree that cig butt throwing out the window is not only littering,if it gets into
the eye of a motorcyclist or into the window of a motorists car,it can be deadly.
But people don`t seem to care anymore.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

SH, San Francisco, CA — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 22:41:28 GMT

"...BAD drivers are the problem and its not always the speeders...its usually the people who think they're the center of the universe."

Like the speeders who drive as if they are the only car on the road.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Wil, St. Louis — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 23:26:49 GMT

I personally think I'm a much better driver than 99.9% of the population and I should be allowed to drive as fast as I feel is safe. I have no problem safely driving 100 mph or more, since I always watch the road carefully, especially when I'm talking on my cell phone or eating a hamburger.
The point is, I'm clearly a much more skilled driver than all the other morons on the road, and I shouldn't have to abide by the same rules that were written for those morons.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Mike Wilson — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 23:53:27 GMT

Figure this one out folks- every morning there is rush hour traffic going northbound into Santa Barbara, as in many parts of the US, and the fastest lane is the "slow" lane, i.e. the right-hand lane. I kid you not. I pass the stalled or stopped traffic by staying in the right-hand lane. By the end of the "trip"- about 5-7 miles of bumper to bumper traffic- I am usually at least a quarter mile ahead of the "fast lane" drivers. This despite the trucks and onramp traffic coming into the right-hand lane. Theory- so many people are in a rush, and believe the fast lane is or should be faster, even with evidence to the contrary, so the left hand "fast" lane has more vehicles in it, hence slower.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Michael W. Gilbert, Paducah, Kentucky — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 00:16:15 GMT

Speed limits have far more to do with revenue than safety. "Speeding" in and of itself almost never causes accidents. It can make accidents worse, but it usually doesn't cause them.

And yes, statistics prove that the slowest 5% of all drivers have the highest accident rates.

Most accidents are caused by carelessness, and recklessness. Over 40,000 people a year are killed in traffic accidents in the U. S.

All the speed traps in the world will never make a difference, as long as police officers are nothing more than tax collectors. Until they turn off the radars and start doing their jobs right, the bloodbath will continue...

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Thu, 19 Jul 2007 00:16:45 GMT

Completely agree with SH of San Francisco. There is something wrong with the mentality in this country. What makes you speeders think you are the most important people out there and that your adrenaline rush matters more than someone else's life? And if you want to show your macho so much, why aren't you in Iraq or Afganistan?

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Kevin G. McDonald — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 01:44:54 GMT

I speed to get somewhere. Who can see my face and be "impressed" when I am doing 140kmh passing them doing 120kmh?

The antipodean nanny state. I guess they have their social engineers too.

A secular state does not have the mandate to educate moral behaviour.

Once it starts teaching us the ethics of this or that, it is a slippery slope to totalitarianism.

Catch me and punish me. Save the money for the t.v. ads you soulless gliberals.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Doug Conkin, Los Angeles, CA — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 02:10:00 GMT

I think we have lost the topic here. What do you think of the ad? Many years ago, I was stopped at a light in the left lane. A car was in the left hand turn lane and one in the right hand lane. It was really hot and we all had our windows down. All three cars were being driven by males. When the light turned green, the car in the left lane floored it and peeled out around the corner. The guy in the car on the right turned his head and said to us "His peepee just got bigger by this much" and held up his thumb and forefinger to indicate about an inch.

The point: People with small peepees feel the need for speed. Those of us with larger equipment don't need to rush!

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

RM, Sup, CO — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 02:56:59 GMT

I hate to sound sexist, but this add is, and I think they got the wrong sex. I never really look at other drivers; I am too busy paying attention to the road, but my wife notices. 75% of the time when I complain about a driver behaving dangerously - whether it be speed, inattention, lack of consideration, endangering others... I say "that guy needs to clean up his act...." and my wife tells me it's not a guy, it's a woman. However, that's not inconsistent with my personal experience with bosses... the best and the worst I've worked for have been women. Maybe the same is true about drivers. In any case, it makes me question if they got the target audience right. As for the speed and lane issue - common courtesy by both parties would eliminate 99% of complaints. Don't sit on someone's tail, and don't block someone just because they are going fast. In the gray area between those extremes, react with traffic. I don't pull over for a speeder if I'm doing the limit and I'm passing cars. Once I pass I pull over. If I'm speeding I may come a little close to a car as a signal, but I very quickly back off and ensure a safe distance at all times. Sometimes you just have to wait. Chill out with some good tunes and don't sweat it. As for the commercial...lame, but that's one reason I almost never watch TV (the other being the lousy shows. I Netflix the good stuff.)

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

WMD, White House, D.C. — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 03:01:19 GMT

The fact is at any given moment - on a freeway - some of the people occupying these "impersonal" objects known as motor vehicles are children and the elderly makes this a no brainer. Obey the speed limit. The 65 mph car you careen into at 80 might have your daughter's or son's best friend in the back seat of it. You want "thrill"? Rock climb.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Rich Oregon — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 04:20:56 GMT

Here there is no speed "limit" although some would argue other wise we have basic of posted speed.
On the other hand there are at least 4 laws that state, when being over taken, impedeing traffic, having "x" number vehicles behind you. You are to move to right and let them pass, no where in these statues does it state you have right becuase of the speed you are travel you don't have to yield the right of way.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

.Ric Betterly. Hazleton, PA Now Fla — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 09:41:58 GMT

Erika in Pa.. I'm from Hazleton and 73. You think we old idiots cause the problem. Gov't figures say different. Come to Evergreen Raceway and put your mouth and money on the line! I'm not an ex pro or anything of that nature just a driver since 1953. Do I speed? At times! The same applies to going slow. Are my reflexes slower than yours? Of course they are. Driving is like riding a bike. It is and ACQUIRED SKILL. I no longer do hand stands on the handle bars but I can still ride. The same applies to driving and I'll beat your butt on any track!
Ric

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

JJ NY, NY — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 10:27:46 GMT

We all speed in life, one way or another. The freeway happens to have policew on it watching... Usually vehicles travelling at very diferent speeds are a major issue. One travelling at 55 and another at 85 can cause some issues when a lane change takes place. If you're talking about speeds in excess of 100 or 100% over the speed limit then that is really speeding. Lane hogging is also major safety issue.
Kudos to fast vehicles of all types.
Common courtesy says either get out of the way or stay still so that others can go around you.
Use them, wisely, wait for Saturday or Sunday AM.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Lee Northern Virginia — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 10:43:26 GMT

Bud, you're a 100 percent correct. People in the US are mostly bad drivers and unaware of their surroundings. If you ride a bicycle and get hit by a car does it matter who was in the right? GET OUT OF THE LEFT LANE people no matter WHAT the speed limit is. There will always be people in a hurry and if you stick to your "rules " by slowing them down they WILL cut you off becuase you're selfish

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

D.C.F. — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 14:08:58 GMT

The fact of the matter is this; both sides of this argument are breaking the law. The speeders are breaking the speed limit and the people who drive in the left hand lanes that are designated as passing lanes are also breaking the law. Every excuse in the world does not make it right. I’m pretty sure most of us know what they say about excuses… and they are right they ALL STINK!

To those of you who are speeding – you are breaking the law and it is not your right to do so.

To those of you who sit in the left hand lane not passing – I don’t care what your excuse is, you are not a cop, it is not your job to make people slow down. You are also wrong.

To those of you trying to make the gas conservation argument – you’re full of BS. When the speed limit was 55 the government said it will conserve gas if you go the posted speed limit. Now that its 65 they are saying the exact same thing….hmmmm something smells rotten to me. It is just an excuse to justify your actions. There are many other more practical ways that oil conservation can be achieved.

Same goes for the people saying that the slow poke in the left hand lane caused them to have to weave in and out of traffic to get around them….WHAT?? Total BS again. You are responsible for your own actions. If you weave in and out of traffic that is your decision. It is your hands on the wheel and your feet on the pedals.

Living in the U.S. I don’t know that much about Australian culture, but I don’t think an ad campaign like that would do a bit of good here. Why? I don’t believe most speeders do it to impress people. Most speeders drive fast because they like to. Some drivers (and I’m sure many of us have run into them on the highway) speed because they don’t want you to get in front of them. They have no other motivation other than to keep you behind them.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Chai — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 14:27:05 GMT

Speed if you want don't if you don't.
I wouldn't mine. I go my way but just don't hit my car cause I won't tolerate.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Larrisa, Cincinnati Ohio — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 14:43:02 GMT

I speed. I eat. I smoke. I change CD's in and out. I make funny faces at people. I don't talk on my cell phone, but I do text page. Funny thing...I'm alive and well. So is my car. So is everyone else who drives with me every single darn day in both rush hours. Amazing.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Tom, Jax FL — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 15:21:21 GMT

99% of all accidents are avoidable. The best way to avoid an accident is to increase your reaction time. The best way to increase your reaction time is to slow down. If you are traveling at speeds over 55 mph; regardless of the speed limit, there should be no less than eight seconds between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead of you. Slow down, maintain space on all four sides of your car but especially in front. Also, you save zero time by speeding when you have an accident(causes everyone behind you to lose time)or if you get pulled over.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Malefeous, Philadelphia PA — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 15:27:11 GMT

I think that it's amazing that there needs to be a campaign to tell people they are "less macho" to get them to stop driving agressivly instead of telling them that it's dangerous and expensive to drive like a fool. I drive 70 miles a day on mostly highway, and I cruise between 75-80 mph, and yet I still get the tailgaters and the lane switchers doing over 90 EVERYTDAY. There is speeding (like me) and then there is reckless driving (people doing 85+). It's no longer enjoyable to drive, it's like your life is in danger everytime you get in your car. I do think that driving has become a lost art, and that it's more about individual "needs" over the collective. Everyone has the "I'm more important than you so get out of my way" attitude.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Lee Raleigh — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 15:41:24 GMT

"and speed ALWAYS translates into a higher risk of death."

WRONG. Check the stats on the autobahn in Germany. It is statistically much safer than American interstates....They can go much faster, but also have more stringent liscense requirements, more logical laws and enforcement, and better road conditions. Keep blindly believing the BS pumped your way.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Dave, Upstate NY — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 15:43:54 GMT

I admit, I speed all the time, about 10 mph over the speed limit, and I hate when someone drives slowly in the left lane. If I'm in the left lane and someone comes up behind me going faster than me, I have no problem getting out of his way. It's common courtesy. Not to mention, if they're going faster than me, they'll probably get a ticket! If you're not a cop, don't act like one. II get a ticket, it's my fault. If I get pulled over, you have every right to drive by me with a holier than though look on your face. But if I'm still on the highway, have the courtesy to move over to the right.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

no brainer — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 15:55:31 GMT

make cars that go only 45 mph.
hmmmmmm

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Me — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 16:08:01 GMT

As a former member of the automotive testing community, and someone with a long travel to work, there are a few things that everyone needs to remember...

1. It isn't worth being dead right... Even though you are right, doesn't mean you should let the wrong person kill you to prove your point.
2. Speedlimits are the maximum speed you are allowed to drive without risking legal issue, however getting to the speed limit quickly does not have legal problems associated with it. (I know, the judge agreed with me)
3. If someone chooses to exceed the posted speedlimit, like I often do (I am a habitual speeder in appropriate areas: Interstates and Expressways... Not parking lots or neighborhoods), I am the one going to pay the ticket, not anyone else, so please do not attempt to hinder my forward progess to prove a point. It usually proves to be a negative experience for the person doing the hindering...

Drive safe...

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Kelley — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 16:08:36 GMT

I agree with both RJ-KCMO and JonB Las Vegas. If you are not passing than why are you in the PASSING lane!! Get a clue you can't be that stupid, can you?

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Dave, Boulder, Colorado — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 16:26:35 GMT

In the US if there are more than 2 lanes in one direction, then NO lane is the fast lane. You can sit in any lane you want. If there are only two lanes, then the left is the fast lane and one MUST "Drive right and pass left" and "Stay in right lane unless passing".

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

S Smith, Oceanside, CA — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 16:51:25 GMT

Does the ad message get across? Perhaps, but it only shows "Exhibition of Speed" types of offenses, not the typical speeding seen on the freeway.
Just a few thoughts. Traffic and driving would be much improved if drivers would consider these points.
1. Pay attention.
2. Don't do anything that will surprise someone in the lane next to you. (Covers a lot of sins.)
3. If you are passed on your right, consider moving over in that direction.
4. When traffic gets heavy enought, give it up and go with the flow.
5. Pay attention.
Courtesy helps.
"Speeding" is a relative thing. Most freeway driving is done above the posted limit and most drivers feel fairly comfortable with that. Posted limits provide two things, a standard by which traffic can regulate itself and a means of (significant) revenue for the state, assessed from violators who are caught. Most of us are violators.
Fuel economy wouldn't be an issue if drivers would give up the bloated, guzzling vehicles we seem to demand and opt for smaller, lighter and more agile cars affording better mileage at the same or even higher speeds.
As for small vehicle safety, it is preferable to avoid an accident than to have to survive one. Physical principles work here. A smaller lighter vehicle will do a better job of avoiding the mess. With the advent of airbags that almost totally surround occupants, crash survival in a small car is not the negative it was once.
Bottom line...matching your pace to the conditions surrounding you is a good Idea.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Kate, Scranton, PA — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 16:52:11 GMT

Forget the freeways & highways. Speeders in rural, residential and commercial areas cause many accidents. I've seen too may "macho" types of both genders speeding way over the limit on streets that are posted at 25 or 30 mph. Anyone who's had a car drive through their front yard, or worse, can attest to their folly.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

NGH, Los Angeles, CA — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 17:06:22 GMT

"I speed. I eat. I smoke. I change CD's in and out. I make funny faces at people. I don't talk on my cell phone, but I do text page. Funny thing...I'm alive and well. So is my car. So is everyone else who drives with me every single darn day in both rush hours. Amazing." -Larrisa, Cincinnati Ohio

Count you're blessings. It's unfortunate that you do all this while driving and I hope nothing ever happens to you. But the fact is that speeding and inconsiderate driving is dangerous. My mother and I were hit by a speeder who drove through a stop sign when I was 4. I escaped with minor injuries and my mother with a couple of broken bones. We're lucky to be alive but that was a scary and traumatic moment. I can't remember what I had for breakfast a few days ago but that accident will always be vivid in my mind. Please drive carefully and avoid speeding. It's not only your life you're putting at risk.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Really? — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 17:15:36 GMT

"Some people enjoy accelerating fast. I am not talking about speeding, but getting to the speed limit quickly. If this was illegal, they wouldn't make street legal cars that go 0-60 in 3.2 seconds."

This falls under "careless driving". The fines (and insurance hit) is greater than a simple speeding ticket. Careless driving is a mandatory court appearance in my state.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

AC, Gilroy, CA — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 17:33:15 GMT

My daughter and I have long commented in the same way, like in the Austin Power movie coughing "compensating" when we see this phenomenon. It's great there is a gesture for it now. We use it frequently. Most women are so not impressed by big trucks, big wheels, peeling off the line, etc. Poor guys ... they think they are so cool.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

L Sid — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 17:45:22 GMT

RE: the advert - cute, whatever.

If someone is obstructing the passing lane, pass them safely when you can. They may be ignorant of the law, or simply selfish, but tailgaiting or aggressively passing them is far more dangerous and discourteous.

If you are in the passing lane and someone is approaching from behind, move right and let them pass. It doesn't matter if you're doing the speed limit. Nobody appointed you Deputy, and by obstructing the faster car you are also breaking a law. And please don't "teach them a lesson" by tapping your brakes, slowing further, etc. Your passive-aggressive pissing match will cause a wreck just as surely as their tailgaiting.

If you find you are pacing the lane to your right, then move right. Clearly you have no business being in the left lane.

If you are speeding, then slow down. Your speed is increasing the risk of an accident, and guess what? You're going to find a lot more people blocking your precious passing lane, cutting you off, etc. Try the speed limit: You'll arrive at your destination soon enough and will be much more relaxed, too.

Oh, but you have a fast car? A Vette, an M5, a souped-up econobox? Goody for you, but you get the same laws as everyone else. You decided to buy a race horse and use it in a petting zoo.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Corrected my spelling — Fri, 20 Jul 2007 10:49:31 GMT

I drive 5 mph under the speed limit in the right lane (because I get 37 mpg vs. 27 mpg) and I get the speeding knuckleheads tailgating me because they're using all four lanes for their personal slalom course.

Our state has an aggressive driver campaign allowing law abiding citizens to offer aggressive drivers the opportunity to explain their actions to a judge.

It's quite entertaining to watch someone (in front of a judge) come to the realization that speeding is indefensible.

The judge had a great comeback too, "Driving is a privilege, not a right. Do you have a bicycle?"

If you are driving at (or under) the speed limit, watch your mirrors. One of these knuckleheads isn't too far behind you.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Vicky Bevis — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 14:27:19 GMT

Great commercial. Sent it to all my Aussie Rellies. Loved esp. the "pinky waving". Will prob. incorporate it into our family's "private language". My youngest has already has a name for the implied idea from yrs. ago: "Small Weeny Syndrome."

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

sue in NOVA — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 14:35:25 GMT

And I have been saying that the drivers in the Wash DC area are all meaner'n snakes (sorry, snakes!)...it appears the self-centered "I'm more important than anybody else" concept is alive and well across the land!
Speeding - often a testerone statement but, as pointed out repeatedly, NOT exclusively! Point being we all need to be more considerate. For instance, if you have a jerk who's riding your tailpipe, let him/her blow by. They're NOT worth getting the risk. Round here, the road ragers are just as likely to run you off the road or shoot you.
So much for the concept that humans are the most highly evolved. We have room for improvement.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

CK, Rochester, NY — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 15:43:29 GMT

Today's cars simply aren't made to go 65mph at cruising speed. They are made to go faster and theoretically it should be possible for everyone to drive faster but a few things need to be taken care of.

1) If you cannot drive at least the speed limit on the freeway, find another way. Going exceptionally slow is just as much a hazard as going quickly.

2) More difficult driving schools and tests. There is a large majority of people who do not know how to drive and are afraid behind the wheel. These people also cause accidents.

3) I am an American, it is MY free will to decide how fast I go and where I do it. To the racer above, if I could afford to go to a race track I would but I can't so if the road is pretty empty I'll definitely do 85-90mph. If I get caught well then that's my punishment isn't it? I'm a skilled driver if there is even the slightest possibility of a problem I will slow down, but people who actively try and block you is a form of road rage, YOU ARE NOT THE POLICE, it is not your right to enforce MY speed.

4) I'll tell you what, my gas mileage at 80mph compared to 65mph is not a 20% difference, in fact it's probably 5% - 10% which translates to cents of gas. We are not funding terrorists. I drive a Golf GTI that is 180hp 1.8L I4 engine. This is a gas saver (28mpg hwy, 23mpg cty) now to all those soccer moms that drive huge Escalade's or Yukon's where is you sense of conservation at 10mpg, you are the ones funding OPEC.

5) I have never, ever, been in a moving collision and don't plan on it. I'm smart enough and quick enough to get out of the way of a problem in a hurry, and I do it safely. I have been driving for about 10 years, and if I made it through my teens and into my twenties with no issues, then I'm not going to stop.

The thing is that the roads are an interesting animal, there is a time and place for doing the speed-limit and if at times you want to go fast why not. A big problem with traffic slowdown and jams is from people (especially during rush hour) going well under what the flow of traffic is doing. The whole idea is that most people are moving at the same speed, those who don't or can't need to get off the major thoroughfares.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Karl, Morehead, KY — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 15:44:30 GMT

Perhaps the two women left in the cloud of dust need more than the pinky, but rather, the arm on which it is attached.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Ryan, Boston, Ma — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 19:48:35 GMT

Interesting responses. Here's an idea for all the idiots who believe driving slow in the passing lane is a great way to pay off a house or make others mad; ask a police officer. They'll plainly tell you that left lane vigilantes are a large cause of highway accidents. If you're not passing, get in the right lane. If someone else wants to do 90 in a 65, let them. It will be safer for you and those around you in comparrison to going slow, making them angry and invoking road rage because YOU don't know what a left lane is for. Plus, they can speed ahead and show you wear the police are hiding on the highway when they're pulled over.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Ryan, Boston, Ma — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 19:58:14 GMT

"Perhaps the two women left in the cloud of dust need more than the pinky, but rather, the arm on which it is attached."

Karl, couldn't agree with you more.
How bout a commercial that depicts the women I see everyday on the road. Eating breakfast, doing makeup, talking on the cell and singing to the radio, all while trying to merge with traffic going 70mph. People may drive fast, but there are FAR worse offences being committed out there.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

wgr, Katrinaville, LA — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 17:12:35 GMT

Speed doesn't kill, it's the impact that kills. Driving is like sailing, biggest ship has the right of way! Only physics determines the actual speed limit, all the others are artifical and set by man.

Wrap speed!

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Rebekah, Phoenix, AZ — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 22:55:24 GMT

Exactly, Justin! Thank you for pointing that out- one of my biggest pet peeves. Everyone feels so justified in speeding in "the fast lane," but there is no such thing. I heard this pointed out in a defensive driving course I took, and it really changed the way I think about driving. The spped limit is the LIMIT, and nobody is supposed to be going faster than this, no matter what lane they're in. That lane does not have a different, higher limit. Promise.
I don't let bad fast/rude drivers bother me anymore, and I don't try to block people, etc. I just drive the speed limit, or less, (in the right or middle lane, don't worry) to save gas and emissions, and I figure those dumb jerks can wreck into each other ahead of me. Although I do love seeing them constantly pass me leaving one light only to wind up right next to me at the next light. It really doesn't help you get there any faster.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Rebekah, Phoenix, AZ — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 22:58:02 GMT

Oh, and I love how all of these speeders keep looking for explanations they can use to blame the law-abiding citizens for accidents. Rich.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Jake, Nashville, Tennessee — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 16:45:41 GMT

Well, in all honesty, I'm pretty sure everybody here speeds all the time. It's just the way it is.Wether you think that 5mph over the limit is speeding or not isn't the issue. If the limit is 35 and you're doing 36 you are technically speeding. Everyone does it. Period. The responsibility lies with the driver to drive safely and responsibly at a speed "that keeps up with the flow of traffic" and one that is "in the spirit of the law" (TN DOT). I own a sports car, but I certainly don't abuse the power at my disposal. Anyone can drive responsibly in any vehicle. The question is wether or not they choose to.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Andrea, Kansas City — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 17:55:16 GMT

Everyone has talked about idiots and speeders on the freeways, but what about those on the two lane roads? I travel 20 miles to and from home on a two lane road. I do 5 to 10 miles over the speed limit, and EVERY day I have some idiot, usually in an SUV or oversized truck, riding my ass. I'm not going to go any faster because it's a dangerous road and riding my 5 inches from my tail is not going to change that fact. I think the ad hit the nail on the head when referring to those people!

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

gogogeo, Stumptown, Oree-gun — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 23:12:35 GMT

As a former Southern Californian (where people REALLY know how to drive), I can attest that it takes skill and attention to drive the L.A. freeways. Fast commutes equal less lost productive time. Time IS money. Moving to Oregon, it took me many years to learn to slow down. I still enjoy "spirited" driving within the bounds of reason and the law. Do I have a "pinkie"? Who cares? This PSA will affect those young men that do care!

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Moira, Murrieta, CA — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 13:09:05 GMT

One possibility nobody has mentioned: We all have a common goal: to arrive alive. How about cooperating with other drivers; assuming that any incompetence is accidental, and adjusting courteously rather than becoming angry?

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

Carla, Seattle, WA — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 01:47:40 GMT

"Nice car/truck. Sorry about your penis."

It's a statement I've heard lots of times, from men and from women, to express disdain for someone who uses their automobile as a substitute for their tiny... whatever.

Maybe true, maybe not, but I think the ad is hilarious.

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

-Red, New England — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 14:38:29 GMT

Thanks - I've been wishing for an alternate gesture for "the bird" to surface. This is perfect!

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

j. dickinson, citrus heights, ca. — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 04:41:49 GMT

The advertisers and the regulators are all F _ _ _ ing freaks.

Do you think it's cool putting this trash in the face of our young people!!!

Crawl back under your rock you freaks!!!!!!!!!!!!

Lead-footed friend late, or overcompensating?

John Skywalker, Moscow, Idaho — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 02:23:54 GMT

You know, we can argue this all day long. We can come up with excuses for our behavior, speculate what we think other peoples intentions are, crack jokes about overcompensation, or "that time of the month", and we can go on and on about how speeding is all about the ego. But in the end, only one answer is found, and all this ridiculous arguing and ranting and opinionated spiel does nothing but cause controversy.

FOR CRYING OUT LOUD, JUST DON'T SPEED. PAY ATTENTION WHEN YOU DRIVE. PEOPLE COULD DIE.

All the stereotypical insults in the world aren't going to make speeders slow down. All that does is tick people off, and give them a reason to drive aggressively. The fact is, some people don't listen when healthy advice is administered to them. The only thing they can hear is their own thoughts. So, the best way to teach them is to crack down on the ones that do it and administer sever punishments for endangering other people's lives. If someone fires a gun in an open crowd, that person is sent immediately to jail, hefty charges are administered, and it's put on his/her permanent criminal record. But speeders are able to get off with a warning, and when they do it again, they only get charged minimal amounts, depending on which state you're in. I feel that speeding should become a crime punishable by jail time, because if nobody is going to put an end to it, then surely law enforcement will be able to step in and staunch the flow of idiots on the road. Hey, they've gotta learn some time!