Like it or not, a lot of us end up falling into stereotypical forms of behaviour as we go through life, and one of the most obvious examples of this is the way we choose to drive. Here are a few of the various groups you’ll encounter once you’ve blitzed that theory test and mastered the practical, along with some tips as to how to manage them.
The Boy Racer
This terrible bunch somehow manage to take to the road despite the horrendous levels of insurance premiums that they have to pay, and typically drive small cars with noisy exhausts. They usually drive too fast for their own capabilities and try much too hard to impress everyone else. They don’t tend to realise how ludicrous they appear to everyone else.
The simplest tactic is simply to let them get on with it. Their booming bass will soon be gone, and they’re a favourite target of bored policemen. Don’t rise to it.
The Showman
Usually you come across the showman (and they do tend to be men) cruising along at some distance below the speed limit, wearing mildly eccentric attire as they proudly pretend not to be showing off their vintage car or expensive motor machine.
Unlike the boy racer, they’re an almost entirely harmless breed, and can provide a little bit of colour to your journey.
The Old Aged Pensioner
We can all have sympathy with older folk who cherish their independence and make the same journey twice a week, every week, year in and year out. Unfortunately it’s not much fun to be stuck behind one.
If someone is persistently driving significantly below the speed limit, hesitating excessively at roundabouts and junctions and generally seems oblivious of everyone else on the road, the chances are that they might be a senior citizen. Stay patient and get past them when you can.
The White Van Man
Or indeed woman. Typical behaviour includes speeding, tail-gating and a general lack of respect for other motorists combined with excessive aggression and use of the lights and horn. Not allowing them to upset you or alter your driving (provided that you’re driving sensibly, of course) is the best possible response to their antics.
If you have the opportunity, put aside your indignation and encourage them to safely overtake you before they do something stupid.
The Motorway-Dodger
There are some people who develop such a terror of motorways that they will go to all possible lengths to avoid using them. The crazy thing is that motorways are statistically speaking the safest roads of them all to drive on when you look at the number of accidents against the total amount of miles driven.
Admittedly using a motorway for the first time can be a worrying experience, but if you choose to avoid them then you’re making your life far harder than it has to be. Take an experienced driver with you at a quiet time of day and conquer those nerves.
As you spend more time on the roads, you’ll encounter all these stereotypes and more. Learn to treat each accordingly and your life will be that much less stressful.
