garygid
Well-known member
Driving in lane #2, I can often just maintain a good, safe distance in back of the car in front, and make almost NO lane chanes. Yes, driving at "traffic" speed (often the speed limit + 5 mph), other cars will pass me on both sides and some will swerve into the "open" space in front of me. But, normally, safe, steady driving.
The right lane "hazards":
1. those abruptly cutting across several lanes to get to an exit they almost missed.
2. faster big trucks cutting back in front of you.
3. very poor view of signs and traffic conditions ahead due to large trucks in front and to your left.
4. exiting cars slowing abruptly in front of you
5. entering cars trying to merge, sometimes without looking, at both faster and slower speeds often causes extra braking
All of things combined cause perhaps 10 more potential-collision "interactions" per mile than when driving steadily in lane #2 (of 4). I think, better to not put me, my passengers, and my car in the more-hazardous situation, if at all possible.
So, that usually requires going a bit faster and staying out of the "death" lane.
The right lane "hazards":
1. those abruptly cutting across several lanes to get to an exit they almost missed.
2. faster big trucks cutting back in front of you.
3. very poor view of signs and traffic conditions ahead due to large trucks in front and to your left.
4. exiting cars slowing abruptly in front of you
5. entering cars trying to merge, sometimes without looking, at both faster and slower speeds often causes extra braking
All of things combined cause perhaps 10 more potential-collision "interactions" per mile than when driving steadily in lane #2 (of 4). I think, better to not put me, my passengers, and my car in the more-hazardous situation, if at all possible.
So, that usually requires going a bit faster and staying out of the "death" lane.