MONEY TO BURN

Cars once deemed speedy couldn’t keep up with a modern electric scooter. But back then there were still absolute nutters on the road. It may be a trick of the slammed-on brake lights, but they seem to be the majority now. Sane people get behind the controls of whatever and morph into horned tyrants or just disconnect with reality and responsibility. Not you, of course.

You know what chevron markings spaced out along a road mean? Of course you do. (They are there to define the safe space you should leave between you and the vehicle in front). Ever noticed anyone complying? Didn’t think so. You follow the rules and someone or several will immediately find the gap unbearable and so pressure you to go faster or overtake you.

Journeys are increasingly an ordeal of intimidation. Someone will almost touch bumpers to bully another driver out of the way or force them to put their foot down or take a risk. Enter a dual carriageway at the maximum legal limit and whoever is behind you will inevitably overtake. The sling shot I call it.

And motorways – wow. They are a minefield of thoughtless idiots hurtling along in lumps of metal far above 120km an hour, devoid of anticipation, courtesy or a clue about safety. Weaving and undertaking using a slow lane is insanity, but it happens all the time. I have vented before about this. No apology.

Full disclosure – I am a police grade one qualified driver and used to teach driving instructors (who must be constantly pulling their hair out as they witness their imparted wisdom, warnings and discipline being so abruptly forgotten).

And it seems the silly arses taking their and your lives in their hands have money to burn. Accelerate hard, break hard. Throw the car into corners, pay no attention to the law or the simple physics of the space and time it takes to break and avoid calamity. Push everything to the edge. Oh, and be sure to check your text messages while you are at it. It is as insane as our breakneck attitude to existence.

Maybe they might just listen to money. It talks.

Cut costs not corners, drive mindfully, read the road ahead and anticipate what others might do.

You can reduce emissions too. Don’t floor the accelerator. Brake gently and gradually. Check your tyres regularly. You will save and you and your family will be safer. Fuel consumption can, with care, drop by as much as 30 per cent. Brakes and tyres will last much longer. That all adds up, economically and environmentally. And for pity’s sake do not be intimidated or impatient, don’t take risks and don’t ever use your mobile phone. Who in their right minds wants to live with the responsibility of what can and too often does happen.

Taking the wheel is one of the most responsible and dangerous things you will ever do.