While classic (read: Jack Nicholson detailing a windshield with a two iron) road-rage incidents are rare in Vancouver, there are still plenty of driving behaviours that set knickers in knots and get people pointing wildly with the wrong finger.
Const. Lindsey Houghton, a spokesman for Vancouver police, said drivers in Metro Vancouver are generally respectful, and, given the (usually) temperate climate, more aware of the cyclists and pedestrians with whom they share the road.
Having said that, here’s a list compiled by the VPD (in no particular order) of a few things that drive motorists to distraction:
1. People running amber or red lights.
2. Speeding in school or playground zones.
3. Aggressive drivers.
4. Getting cut off.
5. Weaving in and out of traffic.
6. Failing to signal lanechanges.
7. Dangerous left turns at intersections.
8. Cyclists without helmets weaving in and out of traffic.
Houghton said it comes down to changing driving habits, saving lives and reducing injuries (which should also reduce insurance costs).
“There are bad driving habits everywhere,” he said.
“If we can get people to slow down a little bit, get people to put a little more distance between them and the car in front of them, especially during snowy, icy weather, (that would be ideal).”
What drives you mad behind the wheel?
Stig Nielsen/for Metro Vancouver
“I guess what drives me mad is when people drive too fast in kids’ zones. I have two kids, and I see people disregarding the speed limits all the time in Vancouver.” – Liz Boja, 35
“I would say the thing that drives me crazy is people who do not signal or just use abrupt signals, not caring about the people behind them nor in front, and that’s how accidents happen.” – Nicole Guevara, 38
“People who jaywalk, because you can hit them and they don’t look at the cars. That’s their fault for not looking.” – Patricia Yulo, 19
“People who do not know what a left lane is for. Like when old people get in the left lane and they drive under the speed limit, and you tell them to move but they don’t, even though you honk them. You have to flip them the finger to make them understand.” – Karl Dovick, 24
