November 2021 – The Wise Drive

November 24, 2021November 24, 2021

Stopping For Pedestrians: You Should Do It.

Q: I frequently see vehicles stop in moving traffic to allow pedestrians to cross outside a crosswalk. I know they are just being courteous but doesn’t that create a more dangerous situation for the pedestrian? Can you advise us on the rules of crossing and when it’s appropriate, if ever, to go outside them?

A: From the context of your question, I think we’re talking here about pedestrians crossing the street mid-block, but there’s also the possibility that there’s a misunderstanding about crosswalks, so let’s address that first. Some folks might think a crosswalk is created by painting white stripes at an intersection. Actually though, the crosswalk was there before any paint was sprayed. A crosswalk is the ten foot wide strip that connects the corners of an intersection, whether it’s been marked by paint or not.

November 18, 2021November 17, 2021

Towing in Ice and Snow

Q: What are the rules for towing a trailer over the pass when there’s snow or ice on the roads? And beyond the rules what advice can you give? I suspect the real concern is trailers on ice, since they may not want to follow the tow vehicle.

A: I just checked mountain pass conditions on DOT’s website, and now is a good time to be talking about this. Before we get to the rules though, I have one question for anyone about to tow a trailer over a pass with winter conditions: Do you really have to make that trip right now?

November 11, 2021November 17, 2021

Turn Signals In Dedicated Turn Lanes

Q: Using turn signals to signal a turn or lane change is required. But what if the vehicle is in a dedicated turn lane? While using a turn signal might add a small degree of safety, what is required?

A: I can see the logic here. If you’re in a lane where your only option is to make a turn, your vehicle position is as much an indication to other drivers of your intention to turn as your turn signal. I’d argue (and I will later) that you should signal because it’s helpful, but you asked what the law requires, so we’ll start there.

November 4, 2021November 17, 2021

Headlights, Taillights, Turn ‘Em On

Q: I have questions about lights. For years cars and trucks have been made with a third/center stop light. I see many vehicles on which this light no longer is working. Is this legal? Also, most newer cars come with daytime running lights. Are there any requirements to have these on?

A: The internet believes that the third brake light was invented by a San Francisco cab driver who had been rear-ended twelve times. He wired an extra brake light into his rear window and was never rear-ended again. There’s no actual evidence supporting that story, but there is a bit of overlap with the truth.