BajaNomad - Highway Law and Disorder

Highway Law and Disorder

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MrBillM - 10-8-2009 at 09:11 PM

Driving North on Hwy 5 south of La Puerta at about 60 M, I came up behind a Gringo Land Rover driving at a slower speed. Nobody else in sight.

I realized that she (as it turns out) was driving EXACTLY at the 80 K Speed Limit. Ok, no problem until we hit a 60 K stretch and SLOWED to EXACTLY that speed until we arrived back at an 80 K stretch. Tiring of the Law and Order game, I passed.

The POINT of the story is that, as I passed and looked over, she was shaking her fist at me and then pointing at her speedometer while she mouthed God-Knows-What.

A Righteous "Keeper of the Speed". We've got a lot of those up in the High-Desert, but they're usually Really old. This gal looked to be late 20s.

I started Laughing and my wife asked why. I said that, given normal driving habits on either side of the border, that's one Gal that must go through life REALLY P--sed.

Wonder how many Mexican drivers she shakes that fist at ?

Funny thing is that, a short distance later, a Fed going South passed me and then made a U. At which point, I slowed to 80. After he paced me for a mile, he gave up and U'd again. I thought about how happy Land-Rover Gal would have been to come up on me pulled over.

Barry A. - 10-8-2009 at 11:06 PM

That's pretty funny, Bill. I am a retired cop. We had two names for folks like you-------if we caught you, you were known as a "cash cow". If we didn't catch you, you were known as a "potential statistic". :rolleyes:

Skipjack Joe - 10-8-2009 at 11:11 PM

You won again.

JESSE - 10-8-2009 at 11:45 PM

:lol:

At her.

Cypress - 10-9-2009 at 04:50 AM

She was probably stoned.

DENNIS - 10-9-2009 at 07:04 AM

That brings back a memory. Twenty five years or so back, Ensenada had parking meters. They were busted and bent over, only a few if any worked. Mexicans used them with a chain to straighten out their bumpers.
One day I watched as a US tourist lady was trying her best to find the slot so she could put in some money so, I told her in a kind way that nobody actually fed the meters.
She went off on me loud and long saying it was our moral responsibility to teach these Mexicans the proper way to conduct a civilized society.
I went into shock and wandered down the road while she continued to "do the right thing" and get that busted ol' meter to take her money.

Gawwwdammm....what arrogance.

Martyman - 10-9-2009 at 08:21 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Cypress
She was probably stoned.

No, If she was stoned she wouldn't be as uptight as she was.

DENNIS - 10-9-2009 at 08:23 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Martyman

No, If she was stoned she wouldn't be as uptight as she was.

Or driving so fast.

vandenberg - 10-9-2009 at 08:37 AM

William,
How come, in that imaginative mind of mine, I picture you, slightly perturbed, driving within a foot of the girls rear bumper, maybe honking your horn now and then, before you stepped on it and went by her like a bat out of hell.
Told you I have a good imagination. :biggrin:

Bajajorge - 10-9-2009 at 09:03 AM

Her car couldn't have had CA license plates. CA normal speed is 15mph over the posted speed limit minimum.

Them Foreigners and their Imaginations

MrBillM - 10-9-2009 at 09:13 AM

That's certainly your imagination gone weird, VBerg.

I NEVER tailgate anyone. Gave up all that youthful aggressive driving as a Youth. Driving behind the "Keeper" I was never closer than 4 or more car-lengths. THAT is what made the incident hilarious. No excuse for her anger than someone lawlessly exceeding the speed that she had decreed proper. After passing her, I went back up to my original 60-65.

She's probably one of those DumbAss "Keepers" who drives the speed limit in town(45) and rails at anyone LEGALLY passing her. I run across those all the time.

The irony is that I'm usually the Slow-Guy on the Highways, but I don't try to force anyone else to drive at my speed. I don't give a Crap how fast anybody else drives. While lots of Gringos and others pass me on the highway, I pass very few.

As far as being a potential "Cash Cow", that would ONLY be in Mexico with their unrealistic speed limits and, even then, I'm pretty damned good at picking them out before they pick me out. In the U.S., there isn't a Chance in Hades that I'll ever get a SPEEDING ticket on the highway. The last one was in 1976 or thereabouts.

Keep on Dreaming, VBerg.

[Edited on 10-9-2009 by MrBillM]

Pescador - 10-9-2009 at 09:19 AM

I think I ran into the same lady when I stopped for a stop sign. I must have been one inch on the white line and she was a pedestrian so as she went by she looked at the line, came back and looked at where my wheels were, then shook her head no in a very stern manner. From the looks I swore she was a school teacher, although I am positive she was not catholic since she did not whack my tires with her ruler.

mtgoat666 - 10-9-2009 at 09:24 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by MrBillM
Driving North on Hwy 5 south of La Puerta at about 60 M, I came up behind a Gringo Land Rover driving at a slower speed. Nobody else in sight.

land rovers don't go too fast. maybe the new ones can go over 55, but my old one from 1970s (stopped importing type 3s in mid 1970s) would go over 55, but got loud as heck as it was geared for top speed of about 50 mph. i think they now import some fancy new land rovers to US, but they cost a mint, and i think only city slicker posers buy them.

or did you mean range rover? those new range rovers are hunks of junk, and probably don't speed at risk of needing to go to shop for electrical and driveline repairs :lol:

Rovers ?

MrBillM - 10-9-2009 at 09:34 AM

Having not kept up with the models, I couldn't say EXCEPT that
It wasn't a Range Rover. It said Land Rover on the Decklid and the style was in keeping with that. The Range Rovers look a lot fancier. Or, at least the ones I've seen.

AGE ? Quien Sabe ? It was either a very late model OR it was amazingly well-maintained for whatever its age. Perfect-looking Original paint scheme.

Regardless of power, I would say that the immediate slowing to the lower speed limit was a better indicator than the possible capabilities of the vehicle.

Barry A. - 10-9-2009 at 09:43 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by MrBillM

The irony is that I'm usually the Slow-Guy on the Highways, but I don't try to force anyone else to drive at my speed. I don't give a Crap how fast anybody else drives. While lots of Gringos and others pass me on the highway, I pass very few.

As far as being a potential "Cash Cow", that would ONLY be in Mexico with their unrealistic speed limits and, even then, I'm pretty damned good at picking them out before they pick me out. In the U.S., there isn't a Chance in Hades that I'll ever get a SPEEDING ticket on the highway. The last one was in 1976 or thereabouts.

[Edited on 10-9-2009 by MrBillM]

----as Paul Harvey used to say, "and that is the rest of the story". Assumptions always get us in trouble, and I made a wrong assumption about your driving habits from what you briefly stated here. Sorry about that. :tumble:

I too just stay to the right and let the crazys pass me by, but------
I wish I could say that I had no speeding ticket since '76------ :lol:

Barry

David K - 10-9-2009 at 10:33 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by mtgoat666

Quote:

Originally posted by MrBillM
Driving North on Hwy 5 south of La Puerta at about 60 M, I came up behind a Gringo Land Rover driving at a slower speed. Nobody else in sight.

Land Rovers now have V-8 engines and can go very fast... not just Range Rovers... Here's Squarecircle's new Land Rover (Model LR3) going to Mision Santa Maria a couple years ago...

MSM07 062r.JPG - 48kB

mtgoat666 - 10-9-2009 at 10:41 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
Land Rovers now have V-8 engines and can go very fast... not just Range Rovers... Here's Squarecircle's new Land Rover (Model LR3) going to Mision Santa Maria a couple years ago...

yeah, range rovers can go fast when running, but they are least reliable SUV, and they cost an arm/leg to repair. yes, they are probaly quite luxurious, up until they break down and leave you stranded :lol:

toyota 4WDs rule! perhaps the only think DK and I agree on :lol:

David K - 10-9-2009 at 10:43 AM

That's right... but I am showing and talking Land Rover, not Range Rover in my reply... Squarecircles Land Rover was amazing... BUT, it is definetly a hand full of trouble as you say... not solid and well built like a Toyota.

A Mexican Friend Told Me This

Gypsy Jan - 10-9-2009 at 11:40 AM

So it can't be too politically incorrect, no?

"There are two kinds of Mexican drivers - those with no insurance drive really slow, those with insurance drive very fast."

DENNIS - 10-9-2009 at 11:54 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Gypsy Jan
"There are two kinds of Mexican drivers - those with no insurance drive really slow, those with insurance drive very fast."

I thought there were three types of Mexican drivers.
One who wants to keep a safe distance from the car in front of him.
One that wants to occupy that space.
And one who doesn't want to give up that space, so he tailgates.

I don't know about the insurance aspect of it all since hit'n run is one of the national pastimes.

vgabndo - 10-9-2009 at 01:29 PM

Most of us live in one of two countries where the speed laws have been made a joke by the same kind of people who have made professional wrestling a profitable business.

I choose to drive just as fast as the law allows. As a result I have a lot of riffraff who get behind me and try to make me feel guilty about being a law abiding citizen. I had a road rager follow me to a stop and try to tell me that "slower traffic had to keep right...its the law" He couldn't seem to get his little mind around the fact that if I am traveling just as fast as the law allows, I CAN'T be slower traffic to anyone but a speeder operating outside the law.

Here's my choice, I can drive in the fast lane at the speed limit passing trucks and vehicles pulling trailers until some clown starts tailgating me and flashing his lights. I can change lanes to get out of his way, slow down to the speed of the slowest traffic, then wait until it is safe to change lanes and get back up to speed. On a trip down I-5 to Baja I can do this about a thousand freekin' times in order to make it easier for a law-breaker to commit his or her offense.

As often as not there is a completely empty lane on my right where the crook can make his own freekin' lane change if he doesn't want to obey the law. It isn't my responsibility to inconvenience myself to make it easier for anyone to break the law. Screw em.

Between my home and the County seat is a stretch of freeway with one of California's highest rates of 100 MPH speeding tickets. The CHP has really cool unmarked cars, "polar bears" and stealth SUVs. I thoroughly enjoy honking, waving and highsigning the dopes who are about open wide their wallets to feed the state's empty treasury.

I also report drunk drivers. I guess that is just the way it is if you've had a good up-bringing in the home of a public servant.

[Edited on 10-9-2009 by vgabndo]

mtgoat666 - 10-9-2009 at 01:39 PM

there is nothing worse than self-righteous law abiders that plug up the fast lanes. you self righteous goody-2-shoes are a menace to society.

on the other hand, impatient light flashers are a bit annoying, and i can understand why anal retentive people get upset by fast drivers.

all thing considered, I tend to agree with the impatient light flashers: move right into the slow lane, grandpa :lol:

[Edited on 10-9-2009 by mtgoat666]

Barry A. - 10-9-2009 at 01:44 PM

Wow, one more thing that I agree with the Goat on-------simply amazing!!!!!

We are definitely making progress!!! :lol:

Barry

Bajahowodd - 10-9-2009 at 03:21 PM

Maybe it's because culturally they are so regimented, but the first time I drove the Autobahn in Germany, I was surprised at the courtesy on the road. Outside the urban areas, the Autobahn is usually two lanes in each direction. But absolutely no one drives to the left unless to pass. Of course, much of the road had no posted speed limit. It compares so favorably to I-5 in the central valley where one must weave back and forth because drivers think it's OK to drive in the left lane.

Back to Baja- I always thought the somewhat unrealistically low speed limits came from a time years past when there were few modern vehicles on the highway. That, and perhaps that many poor Mexicans know they conserve fuel driving slower. That said, is there anyone on this forum who would claim to drive the posted limit on Highway One?

DENNIS - 10-9-2009 at 03:41 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajahowodd
That said, is there anyone on this forum who would claim to drive the posted limit on Highway One?

Well, between Ensenada and Maneadero that would be 35 MPH. Seems the regular speed is around 50. Nobody seems to care what the other driver is doing. If he goes too slowly, they just go around him. If he goes too fast, he has to work it out for himself.

Bajahowodd - 10-9-2009 at 03:56 PM

Nice try, Dennis, but I was referring to the hundreds and hundreds of rural miles. :yes:

bajalou - 10-9-2009 at 04:17 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by vgabndo
.

I choose to drive just as fast as the law allows. As a result I have a lot of riffraff who get behind me and try to make me feel guilty about being a law abiding citizen. I had a road rager follow me to a stop and try to tell me that "slower traffic had to keep right...its the law" He couldn't seem to get his little mind around the fact that if I am traveling just as fast as the law allows, I CAN'T be slower traffic to anyone but a speeder operating outside the law.

Here's the Calif. Vehicle Code regarding slow drivers.

21654. (a) Notwithstanding the prima facie speed limits, any vehicle proceeding upon a highway at a speed less than the normal speed of traffic moving in the same direction at such time shall be driven in the right-hand lane for traffic or as close as practicable to the right-hand edge or curb, except when overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction or when preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into a private road or driveway.

(b) If a vehicle is being driven at a speed less than the normal speed of traffic moving in the same direction at such time, and is not being driven in the right-hand lane for traffic or as close as practicable to the right-hand edge or curb, it shall constitute prima facie evidence that the driver is operating the vehicle in violation of subdivision (a) of this section.

I got a ticket when I first came to Calif. many years ago for going too slow in the left lane. (never made that mistake again).

You notice above it says "a speed less than the normal speed of traffic moving in the same direction at such time".

The posted speed limit is not mentioned in this section of the Code.

vandenberg - 10-9-2009 at 04:41 PM

Quote:

On almost all of the European freeways and tollroads passing on the right is against the law.

Bajahowodd - 10-9-2009 at 04:58 PM

Easy enough when someone is going 110mph in the left lane!

mtgoat666 - 10-9-2009 at 05:03 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by vandenberg

Quote:

On almost all of the European freeways and tollroads passing on the right is against the law.

Everybody shpould read the CA vehicle code SECTION 21750-21759:

21750. The driver of a vehicle overtaking another vehicle or a
bicycle proceeding in the same direction shall pass to the left at a
safe distance without interfering with the safe operation of the
overtaken vehicle or bicycle, subject to the limitations and
exceptions hereinafter stated.

21751. On a two-lane highway, no vehicle shall be driven to the
left side of the center of the roadway in overtaking and passing
another vehicle proceeding in the same direction unless the left side
is clearly visible and free of oncoming traffic for a sufficient
distance ahead to permit such overtaking and passing to be completely
made without interfering with the safe operation of any vehicle
approaching from the opposite direction.

21752. No vehicle shall be driven to the left side of the roadway
under the following conditions:
(a) When approaching or upon the crest of a grade or a curve in
the highway where the driver's view is obstructed within such
distance as to create a hazard in the event another vehicle might
approach from the opposite direction.
(b) When the view is obstructed upon approaching within 100 feet
of any bridge, viaduct, or tunnel.
(c) When approaching within 100 feet of or when traversing any
railroad grade crossing.
(d) When approaching within 100 feet of or when traversing any
intersection.
This section shall not apply upon a one-way roadway.

21753. Except when passing on the right is permitted, the driver of
an overtaken vehicle shall safely move to the right-hand side of the
highway in favor of the overtaking vehicle after an audible signal
or a momentary flash of headlights by the overtaking vehicle, and
shall not increase the speed of his or her vehicle until completely
passed by the overtaking vehicle. This section does not require the
driver of an overtaken vehicle to drive on the shoulder of the
highway in order to allow the overtaking vehicle to pass.

21754. The driver of a motor vehicle may overtake and pass to the
right of another vehicle only under the following conditions:
(a) When the vehicle overtaken is making or about to make a left
turn.
(b) Upon a highway within a business or residence district with
unobstructed pavement of sufficient width for two or more lines of
moving vehicles in the direction of travel.
(c) Upon any highway outside of a business or residence district
with unobstructed pavement of sufficient width and clearly marked for
two or more lines of moving traffic in the direction of travel.
(d) Upon a one-way street.
(e) Upon a highway divided into two roadways where traffic is
restricted to one direction upon each of such roadways.
The provisions of this section shall not relieve the driver of a
slow moving vehicle from the duty to drive as closely as practicable
to the right hand edge of the roadway.

21755. The driver of a motor vehicle may overtake and pass another
vehicle upon the right only under conditions permitting such movement
in safety. In no event shall such movement be made by driving off
the paved or main-traveled portion of the roadway.

21756. (a) The driver of a vehicle overtaking any interurban
electric or streetcar stopped or about to stop for the purpose of
receiving or discharging any passenger shall stop the vehicle to the
rear of the nearest running board or door of such car and thereupon
remain standing until all passengers have boarded the car or upon
alighting have reached a place of safety, except as provided in
subdivision (b) hereof.
(b) Where a safety zone has been establilshed or at an
intersection where traffic is controlled by an officer or a traffic
control signal device, a vehicle need not be brought to a stop before
passing any interurban electric or streetcar but may proceed past
such car at a speed not greater than 10 miles per hour and with due
caution for the safety of pedestrians.
(c) Whenever any trolley coach or bus has stopped at a safety zone
to receive or discharge passengers, a vehicle may proceed past such
trolley coach or bus at a speed not greater than 10 miles per hour.

21757. The driver of a vehicle shall not overtake and pass upon the
left, nor shall any driver of a vehicle drive upon the left side of,
any interurban electric or street car proceeding in the same
direction whether the street car is actually in motion or temporarily
at rest, except:
(a) When so directed by a police or traffic officer.
(b) When upon a one-way street.
(c) When upon a street where the tracks are so located as to
prevent compliance with this section.

21758. In the event any vehicle is being operated on any grade
outside of a business or residence district at a speed of less than
20 miles per hour, no person operating any other motor vehicle shall
attempt to overtake and pass such slow moving vehicle unless the
overtaking vehicle is operated at a speed of at least 10 miles per
hour in excess of the speed of the overtaken vehicle, nor unless the
passing movement is completed within a total distance not greater
than one-quarter of a mile.

21759. The driver of any vehicle approaching any horse drawn
vehicle, any ridden animal, or any livestock shall exercise proper
control of his vehicle and shall reduce speed or stop as may appear
necessary or as may be signalled or otherwise requested by any person
driving, riding or in charge of the animal or livestock in order to
avoid frightening and to safeguard the animal or livestock and to
insure the safety of any person driving or riding the animal or in
charge of the livestock.

DENNIS - 10-9-2009 at 05:12 PM

Boy...That was fun.

snowcat5 - 10-9-2009 at 06:17 PM

Hey Dennis, If you need some more fun, I could send you a copy of the Cal. State Septic Tank Regulations, the 2009 edition (619 pages) and a monthly subscription to the Compost Toilet and Digester Monthly Reader. :biggrin:

TMW - 10-9-2009 at 06:32 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajahowodd
Maybe it's because culturally they are so regimented, but the first time I drove the Autobahn in Germany, I was surprised at the courtesy on the road. Outside the urban areas, the Autobahn is usually two lanes in each direction. But absolutely no one drives to the left unless to pass. Of course, much of the road had no posted speed limit. It compares so favorably to I-5 in the central valley where one must weave back and forth because drivers think it's OK to drive in the left lane.

On the Autobahn commercial trucks must stay in the right lane with a speed limit of 60mph in most places. The left lane has no speed limit except in controlled areas but you can get a ticket if the police think your driving faster than your vehicle is safe to do so. Also if you are in the left lane regardless of your speed you must pull over to let a faster vehicle pass.

I believe most states have a rule/law to stay to the right except to pass and I think that goes for CA. I don't think it is enforced on the freeways however or maybe no where. I don't know of anyone getting a ticket just for driving in the fast lane.

Barry A. - 10-9-2009 at 06:34 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajahowodd
That said, is there anyone on this forum who would claim to drive the posted limit on Highway One?

Yes, I try too----tho I have been known to go up to 60 on some straight-a-ways between El Rosario and Punta Prieta. I simply am not comfortable going any faster on THAT road, even tho I am trained for high speed chases and have participated in a few-----it is not a "strick adherrance to the speed limit" thing, tho, when the 80K limit is admittedly silly-----what is that, about 45 mph???.

Barry

TMW - 10-9-2009 at 06:36 PM

['I got a ticket when I first came to Calif. many years ago for going too slow in the left lane. (never made that mistake again).']

I guess I do now, Lou your a bad boy.

DENNIS - 10-9-2009 at 06:44 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by snowcat5
Hey Dennis, If you need some more fun, I could send you a copy of the Cal. State Septic Tank Regulations, the 2009 edition (619 pages) and a monthly subscription to the Compost Toilet and Digester Monthly Reader. :biggrin:

Now, that would definitly be called a "Bathroom Book."
Thanks for the thought. :lol:

woody with a view - 10-9-2009 at 06:52 PM

we'll be breaking all sorts of land speed records on the 30th. outta my way, guey! if you don't like it, call a cop!

i'm just saying, it's my life and i don't want to lose it before it's time....

landyacht318 - 10-9-2009 at 07:54 PM

I try to be as courteous a driver as possible. If someone wants to drive faster than me, the last thing I want is an irate driver behind me.

On a single lane road, I'll speed up some and then back off the gas when they go to pass. On a multilane roads, I always keep right except to pass, even if I have to keep switching from the right lane to center lane to allow others to merge easily.

The above helps keep me sane, but when I see some self righteous ****** driving the exact speed limit in the left lane, causing others to pass on the right, Mr Hyde emerges. I press a button on my dash and my liscence plates roll up into the bumpers. Old tires appear from underneath and encircle my vehicle. I pull my Heckler and Koch mp5 from under the dash, and I run the offending ****** off the road while spraying them with 9mm rounds, all while screaming vile obscenities through a loudspeaker. I don't bother shaking a fist at them as I need at least one hand on the wheel.

Then I get back in the right lane flip the Dr Hyde switch and continue on peaceful and relaxed, and watch the speeders giving me a big thumb's up as they pass safely on my left.

You've been warned.

mulegemichael - 10-9-2009 at 08:13 PM

i admit it; i drive fast when there is no traffic...beachgirl thinks i drive faster than that..even...that's not possible; i can't drive that fast cause i'm already going faster than that.....pick yer speeds, amigos; it all depends when ya wanna git there

vgabndo - 10-9-2009 at 08:54 PM

I stand corrected. All those thousands and thousands of expensive reflecive speed limit signs were installed there on our California highways as a result of an absolutely mindboggling series of mistakes. Someone should have their butt fired for wasting all our tax dollars.

It appears that so long as there are any drivers within sight who are exceeding the speed limit then there is no speed limit other than the one that is being established by the outlaws.

It follows then that I can reduce my drive time to the border while I'm pulling my motorcycle trailer by just getting in the fast lane and keeping up with the 75-80 MPH traffic. If the 65 MPH speed limit is meaningless, certainly the 55 MPH limit is too.

More likely I'll just drive the speed limit in the fast lane until I am signaled, then when I am fully one car length for every 10 MPH beyond the overtaken vehicle, I'll safely change lanes. IF the next slow moving vehicle is far enough ahead that I won't be tailgating them. When I'm within seven truck lengths of the next slow moving vehicle I'll turn on my turn signal for 200 feet and reclaim the passing lane. Stone cold legal, and even then it will STILL pee off the people who think they are the only ones with a right to drive on our public roads. :lol:

Frank - 10-9-2009 at 09:24 PM

Well atleast we will know its you

landyacht318 - 10-9-2009 at 09:44 PM

I'll never understand that LeftLane mentality. There is a reason why it is among the most expensive fines on the Autobahn. The autobahn also has a much much lower rate of incidence than any American interstate.

Common sense dictates keep right except to pass.
Ignorant narcissism dictates keep left at all times moving over only after inconveniencing others, if at all.

The Maximum Speed

MrBillM - 10-9-2009 at 09:49 PM

Back in '98, I was attending traffic school in Temecula and one of the other attendees had been cited by the CHP for obstructing traffic in the Fast lane of the Interstate even though he was doing the Speed Limit. At that time, it was pointed out by the instructor (a traffic engineer) that you MUST make way for faster traffic even though they are exceeding the posted speed.

Speaking of Speeding, there was a Trooper Dash Cam video clip (Thursday ?) of a South Carolina Patrolman pulling over a car speeding 85 mph. When he asked the driver what kind of excuse he had for driving that fast, the reply he got was "I'm driving the Governor". When told that wasn't a good excuse, he said "Tell that to the Governor". The upstanding and courageous trooper then said he'd do just that. Walking around to the passenger side, he said "How Y'all doin today", shook hands and said "Have a Good One".

Some speeders are worse than others, OR, discretion being the better part of valor.

[Edited on 10-10-2009 by MrBillM]

Barry A. - 10-9-2009 at 11:12 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by vgabndo
Most of us live in one of two countries where the speed laws have been made a joke by the same kind of people who have made professional wrestling a profitable business.

I choose to drive just as fast as the law allows. As a result I have a lot of riffraff who get behind me and try to make me feel guilty about being a law abiding citizen. I had a road rager follow me to a stop and try to tell me that "slower traffic had to keep right...its the law" He couldn't seem to get his little mind around the fact that if I am traveling just as fast as the law allows, I CAN'T be slower traffic to anyone but a speeder operating outside the law.

Here's my choice, I can drive in the fast lane at the speed limit passing trucks and vehicles pulling trailers until some clown starts tailgating me and flashing his lights. I can change lanes to get out of his way, slow down to the speed of the slowest traffic, then wait until it is safe to change lanes and get back up to speed. On a trip down I-5 to Baja I can do this about a thousand freekin' times in order to make it easier for a law-breaker to commit his or her offense.

As often as not there is a completely empty lane on my right where the crook can make his own freekin' lane change if he doesn't want to obey the law. It isn't my responsibility to inconvenience myself to make it easier for anyone to break the law. Screw em.

Between my home and the County seat is a stretch of freeway with one of California's highest rates of 100 MPH speeding tickets. The CHP has really cool unmarked cars, "polar bears" and stealth SUVs. I thoroughly enjoy honking, waving and highsigning the dopes who are about open wide their wallets to feed the state's empty treasury.

I also report drunk drivers. I guess that is just the way it is if you've had a good up-bringing in the home of a public servant.

[Edited on 10-9-2009 by vgabndo]

I am sorry, Vagabundo, but you are a ticket waiting to happen.

The "left" (or inside) lane on a 4 lane road is for passing only, and there are numerous signs along the Interstate telling you that (KEEP RIGHT EXCEPT TO PASS). Many people violate that law, and it is always a way for a CHP officer to pick up their ticket-count for the day to catch them, one by one. We love those "cash cows".

Barry

BajaGringo - 10-10-2009 at 05:11 AM

I tend to drive as fast as the conditions allow. In some parts of Baja on Hwy 1 that may only be 60 kph (~ 40mph) due to curves, poor visibility, bus and truck traffic etc.

On other parts of the open road with no traffic / curves I have been known to go faster - 110 kph (~ 70 mph). It's just common sense and a good eye for those Dodge Charger's with the white stripe...

:lol:

mtgoat666 - 10-10-2009 at 07:39 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Barry A.

Quote:

vago,
your actions are not creating a safe driving experience. all you are doing is puting yourself and others in danger. the cops ticket people like you because you are a hazard to others.

rocmoc - 10-10-2009 at 12:32 PM

Well, when you pass us this coming Feb & Mar, a large white toyhaul without decals pulled by a silver ram, don't get too p##sed as we do the speed limit or slower. BUT we don't care if you pass and are speeding, that's your life. We will even pull over at the next turnout. Just don't get upset with us as we won't you. We do not speed anywhere in Mexico! Forgot to mention, Rarely do we speed in the States. The costs are just to great!

rocmoc n AZ/Mexico

[Edited on 10-10-2009 by rocmoc]

Bajahowodd - 10-10-2009 at 12:59 PM

Americans have become culturally attuned to using all available lanes. It's probably the result of population growth exceeding freeway construction, especially in urban areas. That said, I know there are some current and past law enforcement people on this forum. Last time I got a speeding ticket was five years ago. We were going to San Felipe, headed East on I-8 toward Calexico. Coming down a long, gently curving grade, I got nailed by CHP radar. Let's just say that my speed was well beyond what could be ticketed as wreckless. However, the officer wrote me up for 80. While chatting, I asked him what, if any unoffficial leeway is the norm. He basically told me that if you stay 10 mph or less over the posted limit, there's little chance of being ticketed. Anyone?

rocmoc - 10-10-2009 at 05:49 PM

I took a driver's training class in AZ taught by a retired AZ police dept. head in Tucson and he said in AZ it is 7 mph. But I have had local Pima County sheriff pace along side of me and tell me to slow down for 2 mph over so it is total subjective to the officer that day in AZ.

rocmoc n AZ/Mexico

[Edited on 10-11-2009 by rocmoc]

DENNIS - 10-10-2009 at 06:33 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajahowodd
Americans have become culturally attuned to using all available lanes.

Although all lanes arn't created equal, all drivers are.
We have rights.

vgabndo - 10-10-2009 at 06:37 PM

A. None of this has anything to do with driving in Europe. There ARE no speed limits on the Autobaun.

B. For the rest of you, please explain to me in English what the following words might mean to a law abiding patriot.

SPEED LIMIT 65 MPH

To stupid old me what I get is that the governmental entity that posted the sign intends that citizens shall limit their speed to 65 MPH. What the hell else can it possibly mean?

The tail is wagging the hell out of the dog when so few people have any respect for the law that the "prevailing" speed (and therefore the lowest permitted speed one can drive without constantly changing lanes) is generally 20 MPH outside the law.

And, even Glenn Beck could not disagree that "conservation energy" is by FAR the fastest way to any form of energy independence. Speeding is an unconscionable waste of a finite resource and contributes to a general acceptance of lawlessness.

In REASON we trust, Semper Fi, that's all from me.

Barry A. - 10-10-2009 at 07:40 PM

Vag--------In my opinion----you are selectively interpreting the law, and imposing that interpretation on others---------and the consequences of that can be disastrous. That is not your job, and by doing so you can really teeee others off which may cause them to do crazy things that endanger many innocent folks, notwithstanding that they too are wrong. The LAW that requires you to only use the left lane for passing is a long standing law, and has been well thought out, believe me.

The rest of your "rant" I mostly agree with.

Barry

Tail-Wagging

MrBillM - 10-10-2009 at 07:51 PM

Speaking of that "Prevailing" speed business, it is worth noting that it is THE dominant factor used when determining whether or not a Change in posted limits is justified.

In other words, if enough people exceed the limit, the answer is to change the limit. Makes sense to me.

This was at the center of a controversy years ago on State Highway 62 going through Yucca Valley where sections were posted at 35. When a Traffic study indicated that more than 80 percent of vehicles were exceeding that limit, the State said they were required to adjust it upwards.

Which they did to much public debate. As with much such public hand-wringing, the resultant increase in accidents, injuries and deaths didn't occur. We still lose about the same number of pedestrians trying to run the Gauntlet each year, but that's just another example of Darwin at work for the public good.

As far as properly using our resources in this new era of Gorian Green, is a driver observing the posted speed limit in a Gas-Guzzler a better citizen than another speeding in a Hybrid ?

DENNIS - 10-10-2009 at 08:29 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by MrBillM
As far as properly using our resources in this new era of Gorian Green, is a driver observing the posted speed limit in a Gas-Guzzler a better citizen than another speeding in a Hybrid ?

Yes.

landyacht318 - 10-10-2009 at 11:16 PM

Vgabndo,
There is a speed limit on the Autobahn, just not in the rural areas.
And it is relevant that a law that is followed and heavily enforced results in fewer accidents, as it was designed to do. If it were enforced over here there would be less road rage, and less weaving/ lane changes, which could only result in less accidents.

There is obviously no point in attempting to convince you that you are wrong. People will always speed. The California Vehicle code was posted, and a CHP officer said they would ticket individuals who drive like your self, and others have posted that they have been ticketed for obstructing traffic by staying in the left lane.

You are not the speed police, and acting like you are so makes you a menace on the highway. The likely hood of your efforts succeeding are less than mine in trying to convince you to change your left lane mentality. So my futile efforts will stop with this sentence.

I'm pretty MPG conscious. I rarely speed, and never do so in a populated area in Baja, but in between towns I'll drive what feels safe. If I get stuck behind a slower vehicle, I pull off the road and take a short wander. I'd rather stop than breathe diesel fumes, or have less patient drivers passing dangerously as they make their way through the pack.

mtgoat666 - 10-10-2009 at 11:26 PM

vago,
you appear to be unflexible, dogmatic and quixotic. i think your kids should take your license away before you kill someone during your foolish mission to tame the fast lane.

woody with a view - 10-10-2009 at 11:55 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by vgabndo
A. None of this has anything to do with driving in Europe. There ARE no speed limits on the Autobaun.

B. For the rest of you, please explain to me in English what the following words might mean to a law abiding patriot.

SPEED LIMIT 65 MPH

To stupid old me what I get is that the governmental entity that posted the sign intends that citizens shall limit their speed to 65 MPH. What the hell else can it possibly mean?

The tail is wagging the hell out of the dog when so few people have any respect for the law that the "prevailing" speed (and therefore the lowest permitted speed one can drive without constantly changing lanes) is generally 20 MPH outside the law.

And, even Glenn Beck could not disagree that "conservation energy" is by FAR the fastest way to any form of energy independence. Speeding is an unconscionable waste of a finite resource and contributes to a general acceptance of lawlessness.

In REASON we trust, Semper Fi, that's all from me.

SALUDOS, AMIGO!!!!

but when on the roadway, outta my way when i'm heading south!

25 years ago when we built Rancho Penasquitos we would be speeding up the 15 and EVERY time we would be veering right outta the fast lane for a Mehicano who was PROUDLY going doing 55 in the FAST lane...... cultural or imbecil? no se, hombre!

Skipjack Joe - 10-11-2009 at 12:31 AM

The idea that one should drive at any speed one personally feels is safe is as ridiculous as it sounds.

vandenberg - 10-11-2009 at 07:50 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Skipjack Joe
The idea that one should drive at any speed one personally feels is safe is as ridiculous as it sounds.

I take it you don't approve of my 100 mph between Guerrero Negro and San Ignacio :?:

Just kidding. :biggrin:

Baja&Back - 10-11-2009 at 08:46 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by vgabndo
I stand corrected. - - - people who think they are the only ones with a right to drive on our public roads. :lol:

Vgabundo: You obviously still don't get the point. YOU specifically DO NOT have the right, in any jurisdiction, to drive in the fast lane at ANY speed slower than the prevailing flow of traffic. God bless any officer who tickets you. I always tow at 55 (in the slow lane), but still get angered at pious roadhogs deliberately obstructing traffic in the fast lane.

If you wish to enforce your personal beliefs on the rest of the motoring public, apply to the CHP for Motor Patrol, and give out tickets.

The only place where people are allowed to dawdle along in the fast lane is British Columbia, because half the population learned to drive in England, Hong Kong or India.

:fire:

[Edited on 10-11-2009 by Baja&Back]

durrelllrobert - 10-11-2009 at 10:17 AM

Quote:

Although all lanes arn't created equal, all drivers are.
We have rights.

but passing on the outside lane of the track is always harder than passing on the inside :lol:

durrelllrobert - 10-11-2009 at 10:21 AM

SPEED LIMIT 65 MPH

To stupid old me what I get is that the governmental entity that posted the sign intends that citizens shall limit their speed to 65 MPH. What the hell else can it possibly mean?

Also means that if speed limit is posted higher the Feds cut off interstate highway funding :light:

Why I obey the law, give or take a few MPHs:

toneart - 10-11-2009 at 10:22 AM

1. Police intimidation- I don't want to get a speeding ticket. I used to get lots of tickets as a youth. It was expensive and messed with my insurance rates. To this day I drive with one eye in the rear view mirror.

2. Concern over my safety and the safety of others- To satisfy this concern I try to go with the flow of traffic on freeways. If I am being tailgated, I move over to the right when it is safe to do so. Sometimes that means speeding up in the left lane until it is safe to move over.The California law states that you use the left lane for passing. So I don't drive in the left lane unless it is to pass a slower vehicle or group of vehicles. The point is, the left lane is not for continuous driving. However, if you are stuck in stalled, bumper to bumper traffic, then the left lane is as good as any.

On windy mountain two lane roads, I am often tailgated even when going 5-8 MPH over the posted speed limits. This is very annoying and uncomfortable, so I look for the first convenient place to pull off the road and let the tailgater go by.

Then there is the frightened, usually older person (certainly not all), or the person not paying full attention to his/her driving (cell phones, texting comes to mind) who are road hogs. They creep along well below the posted speed limit without regard or awareness that there is anybody behind them.

The tailgater and the road hog really peees me off. But you never know who they are, what kind of a day they are having or if they are packing a gun. There are lots of people with chips on their shoulder who are set off by another person honking or gesturing. Road rage ensues and can get you killed.

Then there is the problem of each person driving at the speed they feel most comfortable.

Well, to that I subscribe to the double standard tenet; it's OK for me, :yes:

, but it's not OK for you! :no:

Regarding Vgabndo's "REASON" signature, it is interesting that Martin Luther protested Reason. My assumption is that Reason gets in the way of blind faith. :rolleyes:

(I thought Luther was a Lutheran, not a Protestant. :?:

I prefer William Blake's reasons against Reason, prevalent in his writing and depicted in his mystical engravings; a protesting of the hypocrisies that he saw in the religious and moral standards of his day.

Edited by driver to make it relevant to Baja:
When in Baja I sometimes fly like a bat out of hell! And sometimes I slow down to smell the desert air. :smug:

[Edited on 10-11-2009 by toneart]

mtgoat666 - 10-11-2009 at 11:00 AM

Cars traveling at different speeds cause a hazard, as they pass one another. Generally, all are safer when all cars are traveling at same speed. Vago's insistence on traveling against the flow is the real hazard. If he traveled with the flow all would be safer.

One must wonder about a persons reasoning if they can't understand that speed disparity is larger risk factor than traveling 10 or 20 mph above highway speed limit.

[Edited on 10-11-2009 by mtgoat666]

rocmoc - 10-11-2009 at 11:18 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by durrelllrobert
Although all lanes arn't created equal, all drivers are.
We have rights.

but passing on the outside lane of the track is always harder than passing on the inside :lol:

Depends on your setup & the track!

rocmoc n AZ/Mexico

k-rico - 10-11-2009 at 11:28 AM

The probability of a collision and the magnitude of its seriousness is directly proportional to the difference of velocity (speed and direction) of your car and those around you. Driving the speed limit in any lane when others are driving faster or slower is dangerous.

Ya gotta go with the flow.

[Edited on 10-11-2009 by k-rico]

Skipjack Joe - 10-11-2009 at 12:00 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by mtgoat666
One must wonder about a persons reasoning if they can't understand that speed disparity is larger risk factor than traveling 10 or 20 mph above highway speed limit.

Why not then raise the speed limit 10-20mph? Why have laws they don't intend to enforce? It's really pretty stupid.

I follow the speed limits in baja at all the turns as they tell me how sharp the turn will be. It's my clue. A honda civic, however. can take a turn safely probably 20pmh faster than a tacoma with a camper. But you can't have different sign for different car models. So they post a speed limit for the slowest vehicles. Does that give you a right to drive faster than the limit. Well, let's put it this way - if you're involved in an accident the fact that you were speeding will not do much for your cause.

Bajahowodd - 10-11-2009 at 12:38 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Skipjack Joe

I follow the speed limits in baja at all the turns as they tell me how sharp the turn will be. It's my clue.

Is it just me? I seriously doubt anyone has ever counted the number of curves on Highway 1 between El Rosario and La Paz. However, my experience has been that most of the signage, whether speed limit or arrows on the curves tends to be consistent. But, every once in a while, it's way off. I tend to look ahead to see how many arrows are in sight and adjust my speed accordingly. Unfortunately that does not always work. Makes me wonder if some curves are overlooked by the highway authorities, or if it's just a juridictional difference.

[Edited on 10-11-2009 by Bajahowodd]

vgabndo - 10-11-2009 at 08:44 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Baja&Back

Vgabundo: You obviously still don't get the point. YOU specifically DO NOT have the right, in any jurisdiction, to drive in the fast lane at ANY speed slower than the prevailing flow of traffic. God bless any officer who tickets you. I always tow at 55 (in the slow lane), but still get angered at pious roadhogs deliberately obstructing traffic in the fast lane.

Sorry I can't resist. You appear to be saying that when you are cruising along with 15 or 20 fuel guzzling motorhomes in a convoy up the Grapevine and two out of three lanes are blocked by 80,000 pound trucks, you slam on the brakes and drive 35 MPH over the little mountain. I'll bet my hat that you pull right over into the fast lane and block the prevailing flow without a second thought. I already KNOW what the people on this board think about your convoys of slow crawling vehicles blocking the prevailing flow of traffic in Baja. Coming up behind your mile long slow moving business venture is one of the unluckyest things that will happen to most of us on highway one. :lol:

I find being called a pious roadhog by a Baja motorhome tour operator absolutely hilarious! :lol:

You've made my day!

landyacht318 - 10-11-2009 at 10:23 PM

I think Vgabndo quoted Baja&back's post and responded to B&B's post from within the quoted material, confusing most all of us.

[Edited on 10-12-2009 by landyacht318]

Barry A. - 10-11-2009 at 10:42 PM

This entire thread had taken on confusing and incomprehensible realities, it seems to me. What we have here is a total failure in comunication, I am afraid.

I need to sleep on it------maybe that will clear my head. :yes:

Barry

vgabndo - 10-12-2009 at 02:51 PM

Sorry Barry, another post snuck in before I posted my response to the caravan leaders.

In my view it is all about laws being created to coddle the lawless. The problem runs MUCH deeper in this culture. Don't get me started on the "pious" people who stand in front of their Lord, their Priests, and their flock of likeminded sheep and promise to stay married until "death do they part" then about half of them run out and get a divorce. When there are no consequences for not obeying the (slightly) prevalent religious law is it any surprise that many have no respect for civil law. From the Darwinistic side of my perception many of my critics are correct. By trying to adhere to the rules established by our society, I may be run over by the herd and rendered a non-breeder. It may please many to know that I didn't pass along my DNA and their heirs may be free from any influence I might otherwise have had. :lol:

Skeet/Loreto - 10-12-2009 at 03:33 PM

As I set and read all of the Posts of this Thread i think of my Day Dreams:

For Tailgators- An Air Dummy in the back of my pickup that I can inflate when a tailgator gets close. The dummy dressed in Army Fatigues with an AK 47 pointed back at the tailgator with a big sign that says "Back -Off Ahole"!
For Speeders who pass and cut in:

A small device that can be pointed at the Offender and it will Deflate all of his Tires!!

Of all the posts I have not seen any comment for responsibllty for you fellowman!!

Shame on All of you!

Skeet/Loreto

vgabndo - 10-12-2009 at 04:19 PM

Wrong again Deacon. I AM calling for responsibility. If everyone was obeying the speed limit, there couldn't be a case where anyone could be peeved because I was. So simple a Neandertal could understand it. (That wasn't meant to dinegrate your belief system) :saint:

woody with a view - 10-12-2009 at 04:25 PM

drive as fast as you feel comfortable. if i fly past (more comfortable) we can exchange single finger salutes! :lol:

toneart - 10-12-2009 at 04:32 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Skeet/Loreto
As I set and read all of the Posts of this Thread i think of my Day Dreams:

For Tailgators- An Air Dummy in the back of my pickup that I can inflate when a tailgator gets close. The dummy dressed in Army Fatigues with an AK 47 pointed back at the tailgator with a big sign that says "Back -Off Ahole"!
For Speeders who pass and cut in:

A small device that can be pointed at the Offender and it will Deflate all of his Tires!!

Of all the posts I have not seen any comment for responsibllty for you fellowman!!

Shame on All of you!

Skeet/Loreto

Skeet! Pay attention! No shame on me :no:

Here is the 2nd paragraph of my post:
"2. Concern over my safety and the safety of others- To satisfy this concern I try to go with the flow of traffic on freeways. If I am being tailgated, I move over to the right when it is safe to do so. Sometimes that means speeding up in the left lane until it is safe to move over.The California law states that you use the left lane for passing. So I don't drive in the left lane unless it is to pass a slower vehicle or group of vehicles. The point is, the left lane is not for continuous driving. However, if you are stuck in stalled, bumper to bumper traffic, then the left lane is as good as any." :saint:

Faulty Reason is almost as bad as logical Reason. Sometimes your Reason has craters in it. :spingrin:

David K - 10-12-2009 at 05:12 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by vgabndo
Wrong again Deacon. I AM calling for responsibility. If everyone was obeying the speed limit, there couldn't be a case where anyone could be peeved because I was. So simple a Neandertal could understand it. (That wasn't meant to dinegrate your belief system) :saint:

Come on Perry, you are not the highway patrol, so let them do their job... By playing cop in the fast lane, you are creating problems... the police know this and that is why the law reads to have SLOWER traffic stay to the right when there is more than one lane in that direction of travel... even to pull over when the line of cars reaches a certain number.

The fast lane should be kept clear except when passing, anyway... At least be curteous enough to pull over to the next lane if someone needs to go faster... Perhaps there is a medical emergency, baby coming or heart attack. By blocking the car that is behind you the way you say you do... well, that is just plain dangerous and hateful to your fellow human.

Please think about it, the highway is paid for and belongs to all of us... some people just may be better drivers than you give them credit for... Maybe they need a Baja Fix real bad... Peace Love and Fish Tacos, right? :bounce:

TMW - 10-12-2009 at 05:36 PM

If one wants to really tick off the people that linger in the fast lane then get an electric sprayer or make one from the winshield washer system and fill it with diesel fuel. Pass the slowpoke them move over in front of him or her and release a little spray as you move on.

k-rico - 10-12-2009 at 06:21 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by vgabndo
Wrong again Deacon. I AM calling for responsibility. If everyone was obeying the speed limit........

Ever heard this:

“Lord grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”

viabaja - 10-12-2009 at 07:58 PM

Who the hell drives that road at the posted limit?

woody with a view - 10-13-2009 at 02:03 AM

eggsackly!

i can picture many spots with a 2-3 mile straight and the sign says, "60 kph"!!!!!!!!

Neptune willing, we'll be testing the outer limits of an internal combustion engine in 16 days, and a wake-up! lock up the kids and small furry animals...... :light:

rocmoc - 10-14-2009 at 09:08 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by viabaja
Who the hell drives that road at the posted limit?

We do/WILL! Over 10,000 miles on the mainland at speed limit.

rocmoc n AZ/Mexico

[Edited on 10-14-2009 by rocmoc]

Legally Feeling Good !

MrBillM - 10-14-2009 at 10:48 AM

Viabaja asks: "Who the hell drives that road at the posted limit" ?

And, the answer is those who wish to feel good about themselves and how repsonsible they're being in their journey across Mother Earth in tune with Nature and their fellow-man, Thoreau's thoughts on strict adherence to laws notwithstanding.

It's a bunch of Crap, but it makes them feel good.

Given the speeds at which Internal Combustion engines operate most efficiently, perhaps there should be a study done on the effect of slowing for these abnormally low limits and then accelerating again. IF it turns out that there is an additional fuel factor involved, then those who adher to those changes when it doesn't involve traffic safety are being wasteful of a limited natural resource. Would that mitigate their positive Karma for being rigid adherents to arbitrary government dictates ?

Enquiring mInds wonder.

mtgoat666 - 10-14-2009 at 10:56 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by MrBillM
Given the speeds at which Internal Combustion engines operate most efficiently, perhaps there should be a study done on the effect of slowing for these abnormally low limits and then accelerating again. IF it turns out that there is an additional fuel factor involved, then those who adher to those changes when it doesn't involve traffic safety are being wasteful of a limited natural resource. Would that mitigate their positive Karma for being rigid adherents to arbitrary government dictates ?

Enquiring mInds wonder.

Billy,
we already know that unnecessary accelerating/braking and speeding waste fuel. more importantly, y'all should be driving an econo car and towing mountain bikes instead of ATVs. you should give up your power boats and be as one with a sailboat.

live heart healthy!

give a hoot, don't pollute!

yes we can!

[Edited on 10-14-2009 by mtgoat666]

Living Responsibly During the Warming

MrBillM - 10-14-2009 at 02:08 PM

Driving the MOST Economical vehicle at the MOST Economical Speed is OUR responsibility in this time of Global Wounding. One thought that comes to mind is:

IF the most economical speed for our vehicle is DIFFERENT from the posted speed, are we then morally obligated to drive at that most economical speed to aid in healing our planet home ?

Another thought that occurs is that, by driving at ALL in pursuit of pleasure, aren't we being selfish and irresponsible ? Rather than wastefully driving ANYWHERE that is not necessary, shouldn't we park that Hybrid Eco Vehicle at home and read a book ? Avoiding TV or any other Electrical extravagance, of course. The reading should preferably be done during daylight hours to avoid the unnecessary use of said electricity.

IF we all just stayed home, wherever that is, our planet would heal more quickly.

Just an idea.

mtgoat666 - 10-14-2009 at 02:24 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by MrBillM
Driving the MOST Economical vehicle at the MOST Economical Speed is OUR responsibility in this time of Global Wounding. One thought that comes to mind is:

IF the most economical speed for our vehicle is DIFFERENT from the posted speed, are we then morally obligated to drive at that most economical speed to aid in healing our planet home ?

Another thought that occurs is that, by driving at ALL in pursuit of pleasure, aren't we being selfish and irresponsible ? Rather than wastefully driving ANYWHERE that is not necessary, shouldn't we park that Hybrid Eco Vehicle at home and read a book ? Avoiding TV or any other Electrical extravagance, of course. The reading should preferably be done during daylight hours to avoid the unnecessary use of said electricity.

IF we all just stayed home, wherever that is, our planet would heal more quickly.

Just an idea.

we should be working on spaceships so after we ruin this mother earth we can abandon the earth for greener pastures.

or maybe it would be easier if we had population control :lol:

mr bill, i am impressed, we traded comments w/o an insult. now if i see you on the OT, i will rip you a new one :lol:

toneart - 10-14-2009 at 02:33 PM

Quote:

The answer is yes if you are an Amish-Mennonite. But most of the rest of us indeed pleasure ourselves in more liberal ways.

Regarding speed limits, three thoughts come to mind: the law and tickets, safety for oneself and others, and fuel economy. Obviously, not everyone considers all three, nor in that particular order.

Barry A. - 10-14-2009 at 02:37 PM

ToneArt--------Yep, I totally agree with your priorities vis-a-vis speed limits, and in the same order. Ahhhhhh, the left and the right coming together, again------gives me goose bumps!!! :lol:

Barry

toneart - 10-14-2009 at 02:40 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Barry A.
ToneArt--------Yep, I totally agree with your priorities vis-a-vis speed limits, and in the same order. Ahhhhhh, the left and the right coming together, again------gives me goose bumps!!! :lol:

Barry

Awwww Jeez, Barry...What were we thinking" Now ya got me all conflicted with tears, slobber and snots. :lol:

Bajahowodd - 10-14-2009 at 02:43 PM

Get over it. Why don't you just go and follow your own advice and pleasure yourself. :lol:

rocmoc - 10-14-2009 at 04:29 PM

None of the greenie stuff has anything to do with driving the speed limit for us. We are enjoying the trip and don't want to worry about looking over the shoulder for the law. Especially with a wide-body 53' long rig. Speed has nothing to do with it since at 60 I am still racing an INEX Legends at our local tracks, both oval & roadrace. Besides, we bring the toys along for speed in the dirt off-road for the Adrenalin rush. If I see ya, I will pull over and let ya pass. Just flash your lights!

rocmoc n AZ/Mexico

Baja&Back - 10-15-2009 at 05:09 PM

Quoted from Vgabndo (somehow):
" Coming up behind your mile long slow moving business venture is one of the unluckyest things that will happen to most of us on highway one."

"I find being called a pious roadhog by a Baja motorhome tour operator absolutely hilarious!"

Times have changed, Amigo, and so have caravans. You're livin' in the 90s.

The operative word here is "pious". Difference between you & us is that you DELIBERATELY impede traffic in a self imposed role as Defender of the Public Moral.
You're not, really - just a traffic hazard.
Please find a different road to travel.

Martyman - 10-16-2009 at 09:53 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by toneart
Regarding speed limits, three thoughts come to mind: the law and tickets, safety for oneself and others, and fuel economy. Obviously, not everyone considers all three, nor in that particular order.

Here are my three thoughts
3. It will be dark soon, I better drive faster to get off the road, there are banditos.
2. I have to get there quickly before the licores closes
1. I multi-task so... I never go faster then still being able to twist up a fatty with one hand while steering with the other. :cool:

DanO - 10-16-2009 at 01:26 PM

I too have three thoughts when it comes to deciding how fast to drive:

1. How badly do I have to go to the bathroom and where am I in relation to an appropriate pit stop?

2. How hungry am I and where am I in relation to the next good taco stand?

3. How close will it be to being dark when I'm in the Rosarito/TJ corridor?

Therefore, I tend to drive fastest when it's late afternoon, I'm northbound south of Maneadero, starving half to death, and have to pee like a racehorse. Conversely, I drive the slowest when leaving Maneadero headed south after an early lunch and a bathroom break at Tacos Los Poblanos. Under those circumstances, in the very same stretch of road south of Maneadero, I tend to haul ass going north and take it easy going south. Weird, huh?

Bajahowodd - 10-16-2009 at 01:32 PM

Not so much. At least for many of us heading South, we are looking forward to spending quality time in Baja. Heading North, for many of us usually involves the deadline of getting back home for work.

DanO - 10-16-2009 at 02:51 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bajahowodd
Not so much. At least for many of us heading South, we are looking forward to spending quality time in Baja. Heading North, for many of us usually involves the deadline of getting back home for work.

Oh go ahead, just try to splash cold reality on my snark, it won't work. There's more where that came from.

I never exceed the speed limit when driving on dirt roads. Here's the proof: When my wife is driving our truck at exactly the same speed at which I drive it on the exact same dirt roads, the truck is actually travelling faster than when I drive it. She therefore exceeds the speed limit and, conversely, I do not. Why? Because I establish the speed limit (I can do that because there are, of course, no posted limits to confuse me with the facts).

The fact that my speed limit is the only correct speed limit is demonstrably true because (a) when my wife is driving it feels like the truck is about to fishtail wildly, whereas when I drive it is in complete control, and (b) when she is driving I therefore must attempt to assist in bringing the truck under control by stomping my right foot on the phantom brake pedal on the floor of passenger side of the truck while gripping tightly to the grab handle above the door and yelling "Jesus Christ, can you keep it under 60?!" This often leads to an ugly confrontation while other dangers of the road and safety concerns are being ignored.

The moral of this story is that a man is entitled to choose his own speed limit, but he'll have to face the consequences of trying to force his choice on others.

[Edited on 10-16-2009 by DanO]

toneart - 10-16-2009 at 04:08 PM

"Oh go ahead, just try to splash cold reality on my snark, it won't work."- Dan-O

:lol:

Dan, I am going to steal this line and make it my stock reply from now on to anyone on this board. It should suffice to counter any curmudgeonly attacks on my unassailable stances expressed herein. :saint:

Besides, it will save me lots of time and verbosity, while at the same time offering a welcome respite to all sufferers.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! (Toneart bowing to deafening applause). :cool:

DianaT - 10-16-2009 at 04:27 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DanO

I never exceed the speed limit when driving on dirt roads. Here's the proof: When my wife is driving our truck at exactly the same speed at which I drive it on the exact same dirt roads, the truck is actually travelling faster than when I drive it. She therefore exceeds the speed limit and, conversely, I do not. Why? Because I establish the speed limit (I can do that because there are, of course, no posted limits to confuse me with the facts).

The fact that my speed limit is the only correct speed limit is demonstrably true because (a) when my wife is driving it feels like the truck is about to fishtail wildly, whereas when I drive it is in complete control, and (b) when she is driving I therefore must attempt to assist in bringing the truck under control by stomping my right foot on the phantom brake pedal on the floor of passenger side of the truck while gripping tightly to the grab handle above the door and yelling "Jesus Christ, can you keep it under 60?!" This often leads to an ugly confrontation while other dangers of the road and safety concerns are being ignored.

The moral of this story is that a man is entitled to choose his own speed limit, but he'll have to face the consequences of trying to force his choice on others.

Not only is that so true on dirt roads, much of it applies to the highway----

And when you hit a pot-hole, is it because you had no choice out of safety concerns, and when your wife hits a pot-hole is it because she does not know how to avoid them -- in fact it is because she aimed straight for the pot hole?

Thanks for that. :lol:

[Edited on 10-16-2009 by DianaT]

More Lawful Disorder

MrBillM - 10-16-2009 at 05:11 PM

After the News caught the Austrian RINO's squeeze talking on her Cell Phone while driving, I started paying attention once again to that phenomenon. Coincidentally, there was a column in the Times ayer about the same subject with much the same conclusions I've reached.

Driving down to get a haircut this a.m., during the 2 mile drive, I counted three others using theirs. I'm sure I probably missed some. Another one of those laws that will ALWAYS be ignored by the majority, including me. Whenever I call, I always preface my talk with the fact that I may drop off without notice if I see a Cop.

It's hard to say whether the law is a net plus or minus since, on the positive side, it makes us more aware of our surroundings. At least, aware of the Bad guys in the Black and Whites.

On the other hand, one of the negatives is that it's made Texting while driving MORE popular since it can be done with the phone out of sight, but with your attention below the windshield.

"I've fought the Law and (so far) I've won".

toneart - 10-16-2009 at 07:09 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by MrBillM
After the News caught the Austrian RINO's squeeze talking on her Cell Phone while driving, I started paying attention once again to that phenomenon. Coincidentally, there was a column in the Times ayer about the same subject with much the same conclusions I've reached.

Driving down to get a haircut this a.m., during the 2 mile drive, I counted three others using theirs. I'm sure I probably missed some. Another one of those laws that will ALWAYS be ignored by the majority, including me. Whenever I call, I always preface my talk with the fact that I may drop off without notice if I see a Cop.

It's hard to say whether the law is a net plus or minus since, on the positive side, it makes us more aware of our surroundings. At least, aware of the Bad guys in the Black and Whites.

On the other hand, one of the negatives is that it's made Texting while driving MORE popular since it can be done with the phone out of sight, but with your attention below the windshield.

"I've fought the Law and (so far) I've won".

This reminds me of that old Shelly Berman (comedian) bit, when he describes dropping his cigarette in his lap while driving, and then fidgeting around with a pained expression on his face, and a tourist bus rolls by and they all see him. :lol:

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