Dear Portland drivers: [View All]

After living here for a year and a half, I feel that it's appropriate to offer some driving advice that addresses certain things I've noticed. While many of you are fine drivers who know how to operate a motor vehicle, I've noticed that a fair number seem to need to learn a few things.

-The lines on the road actually mean something. I think it's time that some of you learn what that is exactly.
-The signs that say "Speed" followed by a number also mean something. In general, it's a good idea to be driving at a speed that's close to that number--not 20 less.
-There aren't invisible cars stopped ahead if you at the intersection. It's ok to have less than a full car length between you and either the stop line (see point 1) or the car in front of you.
-A green light means go. It doesn't mean wait 5 seconds then slowly roll forward until you're across the intersection.
-The green signs on the freeways also mean something. If you're intending on exiting I-205 Southbound at, say Powell Blvd, it may be a good idea to get into one of the two exit lanes more than 20 yards before the exit.
-Speaking of freeways (and this applies to drivers elsewhere in the state as well), the purpose of the 'on-ramp' is to accelerate to speed before you merge. Similarly, the 'off-ramp' is there for you to slow down after you leave the freeway.
-The MAX has been around for a long time; you should be used to seeing it by now. Please stop watching it while you're driving.
-Learn what "right-of-way" means and understand who should yield and when. (Hint: if you have it, you have a responsibility to not yield it to someone who doesn't have it.)
-It's ok to go around a cyclist if there's room to do so safely. (Note to cyclists: please stop switching between sidewalk and street every other block--it's a safety hazard.)
-If you decide to swerve into the left lane to go around a bus or slow car, don't get pissy if you have to hit the breaks to avoid a head-on collision. You're at fault.
-If a sign says 'no left turn,' please don't hold up traffic waiting to turn left until the police come by and explain what you're doing wrong.
-If there are two or more lanes in one direction (especially on freeways), remember that the left lane is for passing, not for going 15 or more MPH under the posted speed limit (see point 2) before cutting across one or more lanes to take the next exit (see point 5) or turn right at the next intersection.
-If you're going to turn right, try to get into the right-most or turning lane before you get to the intersection. Similarly, if you intend on turning left, get into the left-most or turning lane before you get to the intersection.

Thank you for your time. And just remember, "The Californians" aren't to blame for you being a bad driver.

Sincerely,
laconicsax