Close Calls

Even in heavy traffic it is possible to drive safely. "semi" retired has it spot on, as traffic gets heavier everyone has a tendency to start tailgating in order to not get "cut off". It's a psychological phenomenon that has been well documented. The trick is to become the one that isn't concerned about getting cut off or concerned about being fastest to the destination.

Drive about 1-2 mph slower than prevailing traffic and you will constantly be building space in front of you. Drive as if your purpose is to create that space in order for other people to use it. Traffic will flow around you and naturally create that gap in front of you like an eddy in a currant. Yes, folks will use that space in front of you as you intended and because you aren't tailgating they will be able to accelerate to give you room. The idea that folks are "cutting you off" and brake checking you will disappear.