Flashing headlights and tailgating are road rage: Why driving etiquette matters on highways
Drivers using motorways will have come across those in a real rush – particularly if you were in the left-hand lane, which is often (but incorrectly) thought of as the overtaking lane.
The left-hand lane is solely for passing. Once you've overtaken the car ahead, you should return to the right-hand lane. Lingering in the left lane is discouraged; it's intended for overtaking vehicles only.
That's the way things ought to be.
However, not every driver adheres to this. Speed merchants, who act as if they have a right to the road, use the outside lane as if it were their own private race track. They anticipate a clear passage from start to finish and presume everyone else ought to simply get out of their way.
The UAE is dealing with traffic jams by extending the metro, improving roads, and using Etihad Rail.If you fail to speed up, other drivers will begin flashing their headlights in a forceful manner, attempting to push you aside. Should you remain too slow, they'll then tailgate you dangerously close, attempting to bully you into changing lanes. It's both disturbing and completely unwarranted.
To be honest, I stick to the inside lane unless I'm passing someone. However, I once got flashed even when I was already in the left-hand lane, which completely threw me. But, you know, a rubbish driver is a rubbish driver, no matter which lane they're in.
A point often overlooked by drivers is that public highways are shared spaces, and we're all obliged to act with common courtesy. Your conduct behind the wheel speaks volumes about your character in general. Rude behaviour isn't just a bad look for the individual; it also disturbs the tranquillity and endangers the well-being of others.
Just because everyone's rushing doesn't give you the right to intimidate other motorists.
Reasons to adopt a defensive driving style.
Good road manners are important. Be considerate of other drivers. No one behind the wheel should put others at risk. Actually, it's worth driving with caution, not with force.
Avoid flashing headlights or honking unnecessarily. Don't tailgate. Most drivers aren’t blocking you on purpose. Be patient. More often than not, they’ll move over as soon as it’s safe.
I generally let drivers pull into my lane. It's a minor kindness, but it goes a long way. There'll be a time when you'll be grateful for the same consideration.
In 2024, the United Arab Emirates handed out 630 penalties for hindering traffic flow at the sites of accidents.When you're joining a lane of traffic, don't just barge in. Signal what you're planning to do, look for an opening, and only move over when someone gives you room. These are the little unspoken signals that help us all get along on the roads. Now and then, another driver might even wave you on – be sure to give them a quick thanks.
A brief flash of hazard lights might be their way of saying thanks. Or perhaps they'll give you a quick wave. It's only a little thing, but it always feels good to see. It's a reminder that there's still some decency out there when you're driving.
That's the way it ought to be. Roads are for everyone to use together, and we're all accountable for using them in a responsible manner.
So next time you’re tempted to flash your headlights at the car ahead, pause for just a moment. Let them move when they can. A little patience goes a long way.
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