Some of the worst drivers here seem to be the police. And they simply get no respect. Sometimes justifiably.
215-E offramp to Airport Connector. Accident involving what looks like about a '85 Honda Accord. And a state trooper. Yup. Rearended by NHP.
12/31/2004
Airborne Rangers
Here's a hint. If you're driving down Polaris and hit a green like on Harmon do NOT take the intersection at 45, you'll regret it when you get the bill from the repair shop.
Long Time, No See
Drivers are still just as bad - I've been busy.
And it rained recently.
I've never understood how it is that most people just don't seem to see rain as something that should change their driving habits. And this ain't no normal rain.
Having grown up in western Washington, driving in the rain is no big deal. But there it rains enough that the oil washes off the road. That's true even in California.
But this is a desert. A true desert.
What happens is that during 360 days of the year cars drive up and down these roads, dropping of bits of oil, grease, and rubber. And then it rains. In one quick flood. Not enough to wash the oil away, just enough to make the roads really really slick.
Seems most people just don't get that.
I'm sure you can guess what happens when it rains. My 15 minute commute turns into 45 minutes. Not because people drive more slowly (they don't) but because they crash all over the place and block intersections.
Morons.
And it rained recently.
I've never understood how it is that most people just don't seem to see rain as something that should change their driving habits. And this ain't no normal rain.
Having grown up in western Washington, driving in the rain is no big deal. But there it rains enough that the oil washes off the road. That's true even in California.
But this is a desert. A true desert.
What happens is that during 360 days of the year cars drive up and down these roads, dropping of bits of oil, grease, and rubber. And then it rains. In one quick flood. Not enough to wash the oil away, just enough to make the roads really really slick.
Seems most people just don't get that.
I'm sure you can guess what happens when it rains. My 15 minute commute turns into 45 minutes. Not because people drive more slowly (they don't) but because they crash all over the place and block intersections.
Morons.
11/08/2004
Today's Magical Mystical Morons
are the three people I saw piled onto a Vespa, tootling on down Warm Springs.
Which reminds me of two other really odd incidents.
Seattle, 1999. Driving through the city with a friend, trying to get to a bar. Stopped at a light and looked at the lane next to us. Nine of the chiccest people I've ever seen. Each on a chic little Vespa. Quite amazing. It looked like some kind of bizarre scene out of Clockwork Orange.
San Francisco, 2003. On my morning commute to San Bruno. Driving down the 280 I looked to my left. WTF? A man, in a suite and tie, with a helmet, riding a Vespa style scooter. My first question was how he got that up to 65. My second question was how far he was going to skid when that tiny li'l front wheel finally let go. Definitely a man with cojones the size of grapefruits. Or a deathwish...
Which reminds me of two other really odd incidents.
Seattle, 1999. Driving through the city with a friend, trying to get to a bar. Stopped at a light and looked at the lane next to us. Nine of the chiccest people I've ever seen. Each on a chic little Vespa. Quite amazing. It looked like some kind of bizarre scene out of Clockwork Orange.
San Francisco, 2003. On my morning commute to San Bruno. Driving down the 280 I looked to my left. WTF? A man, in a suite and tie, with a helmet, riding a Vespa style scooter. My first question was how he got that up to 65. My second question was how far he was going to skid when that tiny li'l front wheel finally let go. Definitely a man with cojones the size of grapefruits. Or a deathwish...
Rainy Deux
Saw the results of a three car wipeout at Trop and Mountain View. Not pretty.
Then further down Trop I saw a car, backwards, with one tire folded under itself. I just have no concept of how that happens. How does the car get spun exactly 180 degrees? Didn't appear to be any body damage. The only thing I can think is it came around the corner in a left turn too quickly and slid into the right side curb, then spun. Except that the damaged tire was on the left side. There's no way to make a turn in that direction in that spot (they would have had to have been going the wrong way down the onramp - which isn't outside the realm of probability).
Then further down Trop I saw a car, backwards, with one tire folded under itself. I just have no concept of how that happens. How does the car get spun exactly 180 degrees? Didn't appear to be any body damage. The only thing I can think is it came around the corner in a left turn too quickly and slid into the right side curb, then spun. Except that the damaged tire was on the left side. There's no way to make a turn in that direction in that spot (they would have had to have been going the wrong way down the onramp - which isn't outside the realm of probability).
Rainy Days Are Here Again
Rain in Las Vegas is fun. The roads turn into pure chaos.
My poor little trucklet does pretty badly when it's dry. In the rain the thing is impossible. I was trying to get going while stopped on an uphill. Let the clutch out and the tires spin. Zero traction. I shift into second, hoping the lack of torque will stop the sliding. Nope. Eventually I kind of weaseled my way up the hill in second, sliding the rear end around. Guy in the BMW behind me didn't seem amused.
Guy on the sidewalk thought it was funny, though.
My poor little trucklet does pretty badly when it's dry. In the rain the thing is impossible. I was trying to get going while stopped on an uphill. Let the clutch out and the tires spin. Zero traction. I shift into second, hoping the lack of torque will stop the sliding. Nope. Eventually I kind of weaseled my way up the hill in second, sliding the rear end around. Guy in the BMW behind me didn't seem amused.
Guy on the sidewalk thought it was funny, though.
Oh Good, They're Back
Sitting at a stop light, the guy in the right lane doesn't understand the concept of free right on red. He's from Luoisiana, so no one really expects much.
So someone nudges past him on the right and turns. Then he turns. Then someone from the middle lane turns.
The guy standing on the corner crosses himself and takes his chances in the crosswalk.
So someone nudges past him on the right and turns. Then he turns. Then someone from the middle lane turns.
The guy standing on the corner crosses himself and takes his chances in the crosswalk.
10/28/2004
Drop Clutch
Something nice about a small pickup - you can dump the clutch and make a lot of noise without going anywhere.
So today I was sitting at a stoplight. The light turned green. Across the intersection crossing my lanes were three people. Targets. This is Las Vegas - anyone crossing against the light is fair game. Especially someone who stares you down, pops their nose up in the air, and keeps going.
The person on my right whips past and almost hits a ped. The guy on my left and I both stop pretty close to the peds. Once they clear him he takes off. Once they _almost_ clear me, I rev the engine and dump the clutch. Lots of noise and not much motion. On my part anyway. I got the satisfaction of watching the two pretentious women completely lose their composure and bolt for the sidewalk.
Yeah, I can be a dick, but typically only when provoked.
So today I was sitting at a stoplight. The light turned green. Across the intersection crossing my lanes were three people. Targets. This is Las Vegas - anyone crossing against the light is fair game. Especially someone who stares you down, pops their nose up in the air, and keeps going.
The person on my right whips past and almost hits a ped. The guy on my left and I both stop pretty close to the peds. Once they clear him he takes off. Once they _almost_ clear me, I rev the engine and dump the clutch. Lots of noise and not much motion. On my part anyway. I got the satisfaction of watching the two pretentious women completely lose their composure and bolt for the sidewalk.
Yeah, I can be a dick, but typically only when provoked.
10/19/2004
Ah, They're Back
Westbound on Trop just after Pecos traffic was backed up this morning. Seriously backed up. Finally I find out it's a disabled van in the middle lane. So why is traffic after that still backed up? Ah... And accident has closed down an entire block. Stupid people are back with a vengeance.
And eastbound on Warm Springs before Eastern. Another disabled car blockign traffic. Yippee.
Then tonight in the development I heard a screech and some honking.
Yup, stupid people are back with a vengeance. Must've just been on vacation.
And eastbound on Warm Springs before Eastern. Another disabled car blockign traffic. Yippee.
Then tonight in the development I heard a screech and some honking.
Yup, stupid people are back with a vengeance. Must've just been on vacation.
10/18/2004
Must Be The Weather
I've seen very few accidents lately. This change happend right at about the time the weather started staying under the mid 90s. I think people are paying more attention now that they're not overheated.
I did see a Sprint truck almost take out a car int he lane next to him. Nothing major, nothing exciting, but it's a little comforting.
I did see a Sprint truck almost take out a car int he lane next to him. Nothing major, nothing exciting, but it's a little comforting.
10/14/2004
Punk Night
It must've been "Punk Isn't Dead" night at the Roadhouse. Almost hit a couple as they wandered across Boulder Highway. Now, while it's all well and good that you have a nice spikey mohawk, I have 3000 lbs of car that says I win.
Erch
Right, so I traded in the 3000 GT (half a minivan) on a 1998 base Toyota Tacoma. Used to be someone's work truck. All I need is a lawnmower and four illegals in the back and I'll look like every other base Tacoma on the road. I'm afraid to go to a nursery for fear of getting mobbed.
Anyway, this thing has no weight over the driving axle. None. Tires chirp and the rear end breaks loose with the slightest provocation.
So I'm stopped at a light in a school zone. Group of kids walks across the street. They're at that age. That age full of hormones and self righteousness. Nasty little bastards slowly ambled across the middle of the road as the light turned green. So I waited until they were just inches past my truck and dropped the clutch. Hehe... Probably the only exercise they got all day.
Anyway, this thing has no weight over the driving axle. None. Tires chirp and the rear end breaks loose with the slightest provocation.
So I'm stopped at a light in a school zone. Group of kids walks across the street. They're at that age. That age full of hormones and self righteousness. Nasty little bastards slowly ambled across the middle of the road as the light turned green. So I waited until they were just inches past my truck and dropped the clutch. Hehe... Probably the only exercise they got all day.
10/03/2004
Crack Ho Day
It was old crack whore day at Albertson's on Saturday. Bring an over the hill crack ho with you and get 10% off. Seriously. One winked at me. She was wearing a lot less than she should've been. I almost panicked and ran out of the store.
Anyway... While trying to get out of the parking lot, I'm looking around to make sure I'm not going to get hit. Some dude in a van zips past me, cutting across the parking lot. Just as I'm about to go, some lady whips around parked cars and cuts across the lot, almost side swiping me.
At that point I've had enough and just romp on the gas. Behind me I hear a screech and some angry shouting. Satisfied grin...
Anyway... While trying to get out of the parking lot, I'm looking around to make sure I'm not going to get hit. Some dude in a van zips past me, cutting across the parking lot. Just as I'm about to go, some lady whips around parked cars and cuts across the lot, almost side swiping me.
At that point I've had enough and just romp on the gas. Behind me I hear a screech and some angry shouting. Satisfied grin...
Don't Panic
If I'm a quarter mile away from you and I happen to swerve around a bit, you don't need to panic and come to a stop. I may very well be doing something as simple as avoiding a pothole. Or a rock. In no way am I endangering your life, however pointless it may be. In fact, I'm probably not even endangering mine. If this is your normal reaction, I don't understand how you can drive anywhere in this city.
3000 GT
I really don't understand why the 3000 GT has such a rabid following. See, there are reasons why there aren't a lot of front wheel drive sports cars. The biggest reason is that they handle like crap.
Let's take, for example, hitting a corner too fast. In a Subaru, you just kind of slide - you can either use the gas or brake to help control the slide. No oversteer, no understeer, it just goes. In a Corvette, you let off the gas to help pull out of the slide, or push the accelerator to push the car down into the corner.
A GT doesn't react so well. When it starts to slide, you have to push the gas and hope it'll pull you out of the corner. If you tap the brakes, you slide more because _all_ of the weight has been pulled off the rear wheels. You have to keep on the gas and just kind of ride it out.
The only upside of this is that this characteristic of a FWD sports car has almost gotten me out of my car loan a few times.
Let's take, for example, hitting a corner too fast. In a Subaru, you just kind of slide - you can either use the gas or brake to help control the slide. No oversteer, no understeer, it just goes. In a Corvette, you let off the gas to help pull out of the slide, or push the accelerator to push the car down into the corner.
A GT doesn't react so well. When it starts to slide, you have to push the gas and hope it'll pull you out of the corner. If you tap the brakes, you slide more because _all_ of the weight has been pulled off the rear wheels. You have to keep on the gas and just kind of ride it out.
The only upside of this is that this characteristic of a FWD sports car has almost gotten me out of my car loan a few times.
9/25/2004
Indy
Had an Indiana Jones moment yesterday. I was driving down down Gibson and slowing down to stop at the red light on Boulder Highway. A cement truck turns right onto Gibson from Boulder. Then something falls off the cement truck. I chuckle a bit. Then it dawns on me that I'm now watching an oddly round rock rolling down the road towards me. A big rock. A big round rock.
The brain kicks in... "OH CRAP! PAINTJOB! GOTTA SELL CAR! ACK!"
I slam the brakes, shove the car into reverse, and start screaming backwards down the road (thankfully there's no one behind me). The cement truck passes me. Half a second later I've almost caught up to it - the rock is still rolling down the incline towards me. Eventually the rock starts to slow and I come to a stop, staring at it and wondering what just happened.
Then traffic comes up behind me and and I have to figure out how to get around the rock, since I can't get the car over it. The guy behind me thought I was an idiot until he almost ran into it.
The brain kicks in... "OH CRAP! PAINTJOB! GOTTA SELL CAR! ACK!"
I slam the brakes, shove the car into reverse, and start screaming backwards down the road (thankfully there's no one behind me). The cement truck passes me. Half a second later I've almost caught up to it - the rock is still rolling down the incline towards me. Eventually the rock starts to slow and I come to a stop, staring at it and wondering what just happened.
Then traffic comes up behind me and and I have to figure out how to get around the rock, since I can't get the car over it. The guy behind me thought I was an idiot until he almost ran into it.
Syncrhonicity
Something about Friday afternoon...
On Eastern, heading from Russell to Tropicana. Everyone has to go around an accident. Turn right onto Tropicana - everyone has to go around another accident. After 95 on Tropicana: another... Still amazes me.
On Eastern, heading from Russell to Tropicana. Everyone has to go around an accident. Turn right onto Tropicana - everyone has to go around another accident. After 95 on Tropicana: another... Still amazes me.
Cleverness
Wow, that's a clever new way around traffic. I'll bet no one else has tried rocketing down the bicycle lane at 60 mph. Chances are there's a good reason for that.
9/19/2004
An Old Quote
"At which point I thought 'damn it's a shame I forgot my moron today.'"
That's a quote from when I lived in San Francisco. Little did I know how good I had it there.
That's a quote from when I lived in San Francisco. Little did I know how good I had it there.
9/18/2004
Another Day
Another Accident
Car A + Car B = Accident C. I'm getting so I don't even notice any more.
Car A + Car B = Accident C. I'm getting so I don't even notice any more.
9/17/2004
Chain Reaction
Car 1 turns right onto Tropicana. SUV 1, in the middle lane, overreacts and swerves into the left lane. Car 2, in the left lane, slams on its brakes to avoid getting sideswiped by SUV 1. Car 3, behind Car 2, slams on its brakes and swerves into my lane (the middle). I slam on my brakes and consider plowing into Car 1, who caused all this by jumping into traffic (poorly).
Oh, and this was a quarter of a mile after passing an accident that looked like it got caused by the same thing. People don't learn.
Oh, and this was a quarter of a mile after passing an accident that looked like it got caused by the same thing. People don't learn.
9/14/2004
Big Woops
Someone musta wiped out bigtime getting onto the beltway from Warm Springs. The police closed down the onramp. That sure helped traffic.
The worst part was that some idiot in an SUV was blocking everyone's vision and waving people into traffic. He wasn't really watching traffic, though. I almost got whacked by someone stupid enough to trust this guy.
Stupid 1: Waving people into traffic. Chances are we're smart enough to figure it out (well, some of us).
Stupid 2: Trusting the idiot waving people into traffic.
The worst part was that some idiot in an SUV was blocking everyone's vision and waving people into traffic. He wasn't really watching traffic, though. I almost got whacked by someone stupid enough to trust this guy.
Stupid 1: Waving people into traffic. Chances are we're smart enough to figure it out (well, some of us).
Stupid 2: Trusting the idiot waving people into traffic.
Drunkee
Driving home Saturday night... There's a guy in a lifted pickup who's obviously drunk. Weaving and trying to find someone to follow. That someone ended up being me. I took off - no way I'm driving around with a drunk guy stuck on my bumper.
Hope he got home without killing anyone but himself.
Hope he got home without killing anyone but himself.
9/13/2004
U-Turns
In case you don't know, U-Turns are legal in Nevada unless there's a sign (with some exceptions). On a left turn with a green arrow you have right of way over people turning right against a red. People turning right don't always know this. To the guy in the van that almost ran me over: "Easy there, turbo, I've got right of way." I guess he didn't believe me. Good thing his brakes work.
--------
"Okay, maybe there are some steel plates we should slow down for."
--------
9/09/2004
Once Again
Steel plates will NOT hurt your SUV. You could do 45 over the plate and be just as safe as you are when you're doing 15. And you annoy fewer people.
9/05/2004
Sum Travlin'
This weekend I flew down to San Francisco to visit some friends. It didn't take mt too long to get used to Bay Area traffic - aggressive, fastish, and the horn is a general communication device. Overall the drivers are competent.
Then I got back to Vegas...
Anyway...
The flights. The flight out was full. A little rocky at times, but not too bad. The flight back was not so full. Less than 50 people. So I'm waiting at the airport for the flight to board. It's pretty obvious that there aren't many people on this flight. Very very obvious.
"This is a pre-boarding announcement for flight 863 to Las Vegas. Pre boarding only, please."
3 people.
"We'd now like to begin boarding first class passengers only."
2 people.
"Now boarding passengers in group 1 for flight 863 to Las Vegas."
1 person.
"Now boarding passenergers in groups 1 and 2 for flgiht 863 to Las Vegas."
... This continues for quite a while ...
"Now boarding passengers in all groups."
Today's Lesson according to America West: Never ever make things easier by stepping off the script.
Then I got back to Vegas...
Anyway...
The flights. The flight out was full. A little rocky at times, but not too bad. The flight back was not so full. Less than 50 people. So I'm waiting at the airport for the flight to board. It's pretty obvious that there aren't many people on this flight. Very very obvious.
"This is a pre-boarding announcement for flight 863 to Las Vegas. Pre boarding only, please."
3 people.
"We'd now like to begin boarding first class passengers only."
2 people.
"Now boarding passengers in group 1 for flight 863 to Las Vegas."
1 person.
"Now boarding passenergers in groups 1 and 2 for flgiht 863 to Las Vegas."
... This continues for quite a while ...
"Now boarding passengers in all groups."
Today's Lesson according to America West: Never ever make things easier by stepping off the script.
9/02/2004
Bus = Magnet?
It's almost like city buses attract stupid people. I just can't understand how you hit a bus...
It seems that steel plates on the roadway confuse Vegas drivers. But here's a hint... If the guy in the 3000GT isn't slowing down for them they probably aren't going to hurt your SUV. Now get your foot of the brake pedal and get your butt out of my way.
It seems that steel plates on the roadway confuse Vegas drivers. But here's a hint... If the guy in the 3000GT isn't slowing down for them they probably aren't going to hurt your SUV. Now get your foot of the brake pedal and get your butt out of my way.
8/31/2004
One More Time, Guys
One Car
One Lane
Seems like a simple enough concept...
Here's some other tips:
1. If you're going to run a red light, please do it following fairly close to another vehicle. If there's a large break in traffic the people with the green light may just you're going to stop. This might cause a lot of horn honking, tire squealing, and general discord. There's a slight chance it might be your fault. Oh, and if you're doing this on a left turn, watch the crosswalk. YOU MAY JUST RUN SOMEONE THE FUCK OVER!
2. If things fall off of your car (including but not limited to: muffler, transmission, fender, bumper) it's a very polite thing to get both the car and the pieces off the road so as the not unnecessarily complicate other commuters.
3. A base model '97 3000GT isn't fast enough to beat you, but it is fast enough to keep you out of a lane you may want to be in. Please be courteous about lane chances. The quarter mile of space behind the GT is probably a cozier place than the three car lengths (and closing) ahead.
4. If you hit that pedestrian, you'll probably feel bad. Granted, the city of Las Vegas won't prosecute you (despite the speeding and weaving around like Mr. Magoo) but your conscience will.
5. Don't throw stuff out your window (unless it's evidence) - that's just tacky. If you do throw stuff out your window, don't hit other cars. If you do both of those don't be surprised by the horn honking, swearing, and finger pointing.
6. Toyota Corolla does not equal hotrod. Though you may try, though you may pray, though you may embarrass yourself; you're still driving a Corolla. Might be time to upgrade to that Chevy Cavalier you've always wanted.
7. If the near miss is your fault, don't honk at me. I'm prone to escalate things like that.
That's all for now. Study hard, there'll be a test tomorrow.
One Lane
Seems like a simple enough concept...
Here's some other tips:
1. If you're going to run a red light, please do it following fairly close to another vehicle. If there's a large break in traffic the people with the green light may just you're going to stop. This might cause a lot of horn honking, tire squealing, and general discord. There's a slight chance it might be your fault. Oh, and if you're doing this on a left turn, watch the crosswalk. YOU MAY JUST RUN SOMEONE THE FUCK OVER!
2. If things fall off of your car (including but not limited to: muffler, transmission, fender, bumper) it's a very polite thing to get both the car and the pieces off the road so as the not unnecessarily complicate other commuters.
3. A base model '97 3000GT isn't fast enough to beat you, but it is fast enough to keep you out of a lane you may want to be in. Please be courteous about lane chances. The quarter mile of space behind the GT is probably a cozier place than the three car lengths (and closing) ahead.
4. If you hit that pedestrian, you'll probably feel bad. Granted, the city of Las Vegas won't prosecute you (despite the speeding and weaving around like Mr. Magoo) but your conscience will.
5. Don't throw stuff out your window (unless it's evidence) - that's just tacky. If you do throw stuff out your window, don't hit other cars. If you do both of those don't be surprised by the horn honking, swearing, and finger pointing.
6. Toyota Corolla does not equal hotrod. Though you may try, though you may pray, though you may embarrass yourself; you're still driving a Corolla. Might be time to upgrade to that Chevy Cavalier you've always wanted.
7. If the near miss is your fault, don't honk at me. I'm prone to escalate things like that.
That's all for now. Study hard, there'll be a test tomorrow.
8/30/2004
Today's Winner: Car + Bus
Turns out that a fully loaded bus stops faster than a sports car. Either that, or just maybe, maybe maybe, just possibly the driver of the sports car was a real jackass. 'Cause, really, how do you rear end a bus? Lots of pissed off commuters that morning.
Raced a G35 this morning. Unimpressive. Granted, I lost. I knew I'd lose. I just wanted to see how fast they are. I should've had my ass handed to me on a platter with a side of relish. I felt gypped that I didn't lose that badly.
One more driving hint: if you're driving around with your left turn signal on for miles I won't be able to tell that you want to change lanes. In fact, I may just think you're old, infirm, and none too bright. So it makes sense that when you suddenly lurch into the lane I'm occupying I might be a bit annoyed. This might cause a reaction involving a horn and a certain gesture. Don't let this surprise you - I suspect you're used to it by now.
Raced a G35 this morning. Unimpressive. Granted, I lost. I knew I'd lose. I just wanted to see how fast they are. I should've had my ass handed to me on a platter with a side of relish. I felt gypped that I didn't lose that badly.
One more driving hint: if you're driving around with your left turn signal on for miles I won't be able to tell that you want to change lanes. In fact, I may just think you're old, infirm, and none too bright. So it makes sense that when you suddenly lurch into the lane I'm occupying I might be a bit annoyed. This might cause a reaction involving a horn and a certain gesture. Don't let this surprise you - I suspect you're used to it by now.
8/29/2004
My Fault
I almost rear ended someone yesterday when I saw a prototype Dodge truck driving around. All covered up with the body padding. Some kind of canopy - not sure why.
Funny that that doesn't happen to me with women, just cars.
Funny that that doesn't happen to me with women, just cars.
8/28/2004
Broadacres
Took my first trip to the Broadacres Swap Meet today. Smelly, noisy, full of crap merchandise, no one speaks English. Very cool. I was walking along just checking out the stalls when a lady with nice mangos flagged me down. They were pretty tasty.
8/27/2004
Limooooooooo
Almost got hit by a limo today.
So that makes....
Cars
Trucks
Semi
Limo
Tractor
Now all I need is some dude in a Cessna to plop down on me and I'll be set.
So that makes....
Cars
Trucks
Semi
Limo
Tractor
Now all I need is some dude in a Cessna to plop down on me and I'll be set.
8/26/2004
Vegans
I was waiting at the checkout line at Albertson's today and saw a woman head into the bathroom. She parked her empty cart outside and disappeared for a few moments. While she was in there some guy (non employee) wandered by, looked around, and stole her cart. She came out, looked around, stood there confused for a moment, and then left.
If she had veered off to one side, rammed an old lady with a bagfull of groceries and killed someone crossing the aisle it would pretty much sum out traffic in Vegas.
If she had veered off to one side, rammed an old lady with a bagfull of groceries and killed someone crossing the aisle it would pretty much sum out traffic in Vegas.
8/24/2004
And Then
There are people from states like Illinois who drive around saying things like "garsh, there's a city he'are, we best go real slow so's them coppers don't get us." I often mistake them for Californians.
8/23/2004
Sandy Valley
What can I say?
Oh...?
You've never heard of Sandy Valley?
Hehe... Sandy Valley has two types of people in it - Mormons and white trash.
The Mormons, well, they're Mormons. If you don't know, well, it'll remain a mystery for now. Today we're talking about the white trash.
Ah, some background. See, my parents live out in Sandy Valley. They're not white trash, and they're not Mormons. They're just kind of out there... Way out there. Their driveway is half a mile long. And unpaved.
So I'm on the way down that dirt road, looking at all the houses passing by. Off to the left is a mansion any true Ozarkian would be proud of. Some enterprising redneck has taken three (how'd he afford that many?) trailers and bolted them together into one big homestead.
Next house down... A car in the front yard up on blocks. Tire used as a planter. Broken appliances in the front yard also. Whoah.... Almost missed the beer bellied man in the wife beater standing on the front porch, beer in hand, pissing on the aforementioned appliances.
These are the people who refuse to put numbers on their houses so that the county inspectors can't find them. There's three bars, one general store, one restaurant (well, pizza joint), and no gas stations.
My mother and ex-girlfriend went into the general store a few days before Christmas to get baking soda. They found one box. It was already opened...
The next door neighbors have chickens, horses, cows. And a pile of kids. Good Mormons they be. Survivalist Mormons, I guess. Ready to repopulate the world at a moments notice.
Yeah, that's Sandy Valley in a netshell.
Oh yeah, directions... 20 miles south on I-15 to Jean. West 5 more miles. Then left on another road over some windy little 'mountain' pass. That road is where I found out that a 3000GT doesn't land very well.
Commerce... Sandy Valley has two main employers: a sod farm and a kitty litter plant. Hehe... Kitty litter plant. Now I know why my cat's dirt is so cheap here.
Oh...?
You've never heard of Sandy Valley?
Hehe... Sandy Valley has two types of people in it - Mormons and white trash.
The Mormons, well, they're Mormons. If you don't know, well, it'll remain a mystery for now. Today we're talking about the white trash.
Ah, some background. See, my parents live out in Sandy Valley. They're not white trash, and they're not Mormons. They're just kind of out there... Way out there. Their driveway is half a mile long. And unpaved.
So I'm on the way down that dirt road, looking at all the houses passing by. Off to the left is a mansion any true Ozarkian would be proud of. Some enterprising redneck has taken three (how'd he afford that many?) trailers and bolted them together into one big homestead.
Next house down... A car in the front yard up on blocks. Tire used as a planter. Broken appliances in the front yard also. Whoah.... Almost missed the beer bellied man in the wife beater standing on the front porch, beer in hand, pissing on the aforementioned appliances.
These are the people who refuse to put numbers on their houses so that the county inspectors can't find them. There's three bars, one general store, one restaurant (well, pizza joint), and no gas stations.
My mother and ex-girlfriend went into the general store a few days before Christmas to get baking soda. They found one box. It was already opened...
The next door neighbors have chickens, horses, cows. And a pile of kids. Good Mormons they be. Survivalist Mormons, I guess. Ready to repopulate the world at a moments notice.
Yeah, that's Sandy Valley in a netshell.
Oh yeah, directions... 20 miles south on I-15 to Jean. West 5 more miles. Then left on another road over some windy little 'mountain' pass. That road is where I found out that a 3000GT doesn't land very well.
Commerce... Sandy Valley has two main employers: a sod farm and a kitty litter plant. Hehe... Kitty litter plant. Now I know why my cat's dirt is so cheap here.
Raelians
Like Aliens. Only sillier.
Last year while carpooling with coworkers I saw some Raelians. Two Rael-mobiles en-route to somewhere. On the beltway near Summerlin. Going East. Off to a Rael-convention.
This was about the time they were claiming they had a clone. I wanted to stop them and ask if they were clones. But they had a Rael mission, so I left them to it.
Last year while carpooling with coworkers I saw some Raelians. Two Rael-mobiles en-route to somewhere. On the beltway near Summerlin. Going East. Off to a Rael-convention.
This was about the time they were claiming they had a clone. I wanted to stop them and ask if they were clones. But they had a Rael mission, so I left them to it.
Don't Back Up
I almost got hit on Saturday. Too bad I wasn't in the car...
Coming home tonight I got sick of waiting for traffic to clear so I could make a left into the paved area in front of the guard shack. I saw a gap just big enough, punched it, and pulled a sliding stop into the paved area. Lots of engine noises and screeching of tires (with little actual motion - just very dramatic sounding). The guard came running out of the shack. I smiled and waved. I think I'm gonna get crap from the guards next time through there.
Coming home tonight I got sick of waiting for traffic to clear so I could make a left into the paved area in front of the guard shack. I saw a gap just big enough, punched it, and pulled a sliding stop into the paved area. Lots of engine noises and screeching of tires (with little actual motion - just very dramatic sounding). The guard came running out of the shack. I smiled and waved. I think I'm gonna get crap from the guards next time through there.
8/21/2004
Fire
Last night on the way out to visit my parents (Southbound I-15) I got to see the remains of a car fire. Skid marks across three lanes leading to where the burned out remains of the car were surrounded by three fire trucks and a semi. Hopefully whoever was in the car got out.
Car fires seem common here. I'd only seen one in my lifetime until I moved here. Now I've seen the remains of two, one active, and plumes from two more.
Car fires seem common here. I'd only seen one in my lifetime until I moved here. Now I've seen the remains of two, one active, and plumes from two more.
8/19/2004
It Could Have Been Me
Almost got taken out today. Would've totalled the GT, too, probably. Damn sense of self preservation.
I used to drive a very raised 4x4 ('75 Blazer on 40" tires). When I did, I was extremely careful about lane changes to my right. Some people drive big trucks without so much caution.
In the right lane of Warm Springs. West bound after Paradise. Suddenly I catch a peripheral glance of a tire. At eye level. Very close. (SWERVE)(GAS)(SWERVE) Narrowly avoided getting pushed into a light pole.
I think my passenger was unamused by the fact that I took the time to roll down my window and explain to this driver just how badly he'd almost messed up... "That sounds like road rage." "No, road rage is when I follow him home and put a dent in his door panel."
(Sense the hostility?)
I used to drive a very raised 4x4 ('75 Blazer on 40" tires). When I did, I was extremely careful about lane changes to my right. Some people drive big trucks without so much caution.
In the right lane of Warm Springs. West bound after Paradise. Suddenly I catch a peripheral glance of a tire. At eye level. Very close. (SWERVE)(GAS)(SWERVE) Narrowly avoided getting pushed into a light pole.
I think my passenger was unamused by the fact that I took the time to roll down my window and explain to this driver just how badly he'd almost messed up... "That sounds like road rage." "No, road rage is when I follow him home and put a dent in his door panel."
(Sense the hostility?)
8/18/2004
Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel
Turning right from the airport connector onto Russell. Read end collision. Most people seem to learn "look, then gas." A lot of Las Vegans seem to learn "gas, then !"
I wonder if I can see an accident there three times in one week.
I wonder if I can see an accident there three times in one week.
8/17/2004
Boofays
Iv'e been eating at the local casinos to see which ones have good food. Locals casinos. Not even Station type locals casinos. I mean the one offs that you can't find unless you happen to be driving past.
Been a mixed bag:
Boulder Station: one of the better Stations - excellent Mexican place with a good salsa bar.
Sam's Town: it's Sam's Town. Nuff' said.
Longhorn: decent food, massive quanitities. Good prices. My $7.99 8oz prime rib was actually a $7.99 25oz prime rib. Decnt prime rib, good potatoes.
Elllsi Island / Village Pub: Very good prices, excellent food! If you're in town for a vacation, find Ellis Island and eat dinner there, it's worth it. It's the only place I've ever been where the hamburger meat has spices in it. The prime rib is soft as butter and the most flavorful I've had. Fish and chips actually have flavor in the batter and solid chunks of fresh fish. Plsu the $7.99 special is great: prime rib, potatoe, veggies, and an ice cold microbrew (a very good nut brown).
Nevada Palace: Not Expensive. But still, don't eat there. Just don't. Find a Village Pub or Ellis Island. Or cross the road to Lognhorn or Sam's Town. If it's 115 outside and you have to walk, do it. Heck, drive down the road half a mile to my house and I'll make you grilled steak with sauteed mushrooms and onions (along with an ice cold Pete's and some garlic mashed potatoes) - no charge.
Been a mixed bag:
Boulder Station: one of the better Stations - excellent Mexican place with a good salsa bar.
Sam's Town: it's Sam's Town. Nuff' said.
Longhorn: decent food, massive quanitities. Good prices. My $7.99 8oz prime rib was actually a $7.99 25oz prime rib. Decnt prime rib, good potatoes.
Elllsi Island / Village Pub: Very good prices, excellent food! If you're in town for a vacation, find Ellis Island and eat dinner there, it's worth it. It's the only place I've ever been where the hamburger meat has spices in it. The prime rib is soft as butter and the most flavorful I've had. Fish and chips actually have flavor in the batter and solid chunks of fresh fish. Plsu the $7.99 special is great: prime rib, potatoe, veggies, and an ice cold microbrew (a very good nut brown).
Nevada Palace: Not Expensive. But still, don't eat there. Just don't. Find a Village Pub or Ellis Island. Or cross the road to Lognhorn or Sam's Town. If it's 115 outside and you have to walk, do it. Heck, drive down the road half a mile to my house and I'll make you grilled steak with sauteed mushrooms and onions (along with an ice cold Pete's and some garlic mashed potatoes) - no charge.
For The Most Part
Las Vegas roads make sense. Coming from the Sea-Tac area, it's extremely easy to get around here. Directions are simple, the highway system is easy, the beltway even makes sense.
For the most part...
Down around I-95 and Sunset all hell breaks loose. I think it's all caused by that stupid hill. Boulder Highway doesn't seem to cause a problem, it's just that hill. You know the one.
For the most part...
Down around I-95 and Sunset all hell breaks loose. I think it's all caused by that stupid hill. Boulder Highway doesn't seem to cause a problem, it's just that hill. You know the one.
8/16/2004
For Those Of You From Western Washington
I'm sure you'll be amused to know that the slightest hint of moisture brings out the stupid in Las Vegans.
The homeless float away, cars start water skiing, and once again we all learn what those funny looking channels are for.
However, we do have the advantage of being able to drive in the sun (which Seattle has yet to master).
The homeless float away, cars start water skiing, and once again we all learn what those funny looking channels are for.
However, we do have the advantage of being able to drive in the sun (which Seattle has yet to master).
How To Know You're From California
1. You're doing 50 mph in a 55 mph zone.
2. You're doing 45 mph in a 55 mph zone.
3. You're doing 35 mph in a 55 mph zone, and weaving across two lanes.
4. You're doing 30 mph in a 55 mph zone, and weaving across two lanes, and driving with your left turn signal on.
Californians are fast and aggressive drivers? MY ASS! They're stupid, unpredictable, and lazy. Las Vegas drivers, while all that, are at least fast.
2. You're doing 45 mph in a 55 mph zone.
3. You're doing 35 mph in a 55 mph zone, and weaving across two lanes.
4. You're doing 30 mph in a 55 mph zone, and weaving across two lanes, and driving with your left turn signal on.
Californians are fast and aggressive drivers? MY ASS! They're stupid, unpredictable, and lazy. Las Vegas drivers, while all that, are at least fast.
8/15/2004
When someone stops
it doesn't necessarily mean you have to.
If they jump out into the median after turning left, chances are they're waiting for a break in traffic to merge into the flow. That doesn't mean that if you're in the left lane you need to stop and let them in. Chances are it'll just piss off the people behind you and confuse the person you're letting in. Las Vegans don't seem too quick on the horn. Las Vegans don't really know how to drive.
In CA the drivers are fast and aggressive. Here they're fast, aggressive, and more than anything else; confused. Confused about stop lights. Confused about speed limits. Confused about merging, turning, stopping, starting, and just driving in a straight line. Las Vegas reminds seems like a city full of driver's ed students all trying to get somewhere in a real big hurry.
If they jump out into the median after turning left, chances are they're waiting for a break in traffic to merge into the flow. That doesn't mean that if you're in the left lane you need to stop and let them in. Chances are it'll just piss off the people behind you and confuse the person you're letting in. Las Vegans don't seem too quick on the horn. Las Vegans don't really know how to drive.
In CA the drivers are fast and aggressive. Here they're fast, aggressive, and more than anything else; confused. Confused about stop lights. Confused about speed limits. Confused about merging, turning, stopping, starting, and just driving in a straight line. Las Vegas reminds seems like a city full of driver's ed students all trying to get somewhere in a real big hurry.
Firemen
Leaving the development the other day, I notced that there was a crew out cutting the dead leaves off the palm trees in the common park area. Then I notced there was a fire truck there, the kind with the ladders. WTF? How'd they con the fire department into helping cut the trees?
Turns out the tree maintenance company owns the truck - bought it at an auction. Clever company.
Turns out the tree maintenance company owns the truck - bought it at an auction. Clever company.
8/09/2004
Parking
Ever since I almost hit that moron on Tropicana I've noticed a vibration at 40 mph. I think my tires have a flat spot now. This is a mixed blessing. The downside is obvious. The upside is that I no longer care about the health of the tires.
With this in mind I've been getting to work early so I can try to get into a parking spot backwards without ever using reverse. I'm getting close.
Not sure if anyone is getting pissed about the skid marks all over, but I'm hoping not.
With this in mind I've been getting to work early so I can try to get into a parking spot backwards without ever using reverse. I'm getting close.
Not sure if anyone is getting pissed about the skid marks all over, but I'm hoping not.
On Friday...
...I almost got hit by a tractor.
Just driving down the road, trying to pass a front loader. 6 lanes plus a median, not much other traffic. I'm in the guy's blind spot and he swerved for some reason.
Granted, I am trying to get the GT totaled so I can get rid of the payments, but my idiot reptile brain kicked in quick enough for me to realize that getting run over by a front loader would probably take me out with the car.
Oh well.
Just driving down the road, trying to pass a front loader. 6 lanes plus a median, not much other traffic. I'm in the guy's blind spot and he swerved for some reason.
Granted, I am trying to get the GT totaled so I can get rid of the payments, but my idiot reptile brain kicked in quick enough for me to realize that getting run over by a front loader would probably take me out with the car.
Oh well.
Today's Accident
Today's commute home saw the aftermath of two accidents - both rearend collisions. Both pretty typical. Once at a stop sign. Guy in front probably started to go, then stopped. The guy behind wasn't watching in front of him. Other one was a guy in a median - again pretty typical for here. Lots of people here don't seem to be big on depth perception. I think it's the sun.
I used to notice in Washington that during the summer months when it was dry and sunny out there were more accidents. Must be the sun.
I used to notice in Washington that during the summer months when it was dry and sunny out there were more accidents. Must be the sun.
7/28/2004
Midgetville
Before I bought my house something funny happened at work. A coworker's wife called and said the neighbors were having a midget party. He thought she was joking until he got home and saw about five midgets in the neighbor's front yard holding 40 ouncers and practicing karate on each other.
I thought that was pretty damn funny.
After I bought my house I noticed a lot of midgets in the neighborhood.
One day I was turning from Boulder onto Trop to go home and I saw a guy across the street on a motorcycle. Next to a Honda. A BIG Honda. Never seen a Civic that big before. Then I realized it was a midget on a mini bike.
Later I found out that this coworker lives just a couple blocks away from me. We live in the midget section of town apparantly.
(This post is probably the tipping point that will void my entry pass into any kind of public relations job.)
I thought that was pretty damn funny.
After I bought my house I noticed a lot of midgets in the neighborhood.
One day I was turning from Boulder onto Trop to go home and I saw a guy across the street on a motorcycle. Next to a Honda. A BIG Honda. Never seen a Civic that big before. Then I realized it was a midget on a mini bike.
Later I found out that this coworker lives just a couple blocks away from me. We live in the midget section of town apparantly.
(This post is probably the tipping point that will void my entry pass into any kind of public relations job.)
Hobilly Delux
Last night was fat crack whore night at the local Albertson's.
I forgot my crack whore, so I got no prize.
The people in line in front of me were elderly. Older than 60, probably younger than 70. And stoned. Stoned to the gills. Serious munchies. HoHos, Twinkies, microwave dinners. Maybe they just eat that way normally? No, they were stoned. Definitely stoned. Been around enough stoned people to know. They were stoned.
I forgot my crack whore, so I got no prize.
The people in line in front of me were elderly. Older than 60, probably younger than 70. And stoned. Stoned to the gills. Serious munchies. HoHos, Twinkies, microwave dinners. Maybe they just eat that way normally? No, they were stoned. Definitely stoned. Been around enough stoned people to know. They were stoned.
Der Gate
To my neighbors: QUIT FUCKING HITTING THE DAMN GATE! My association dues go to pay for the fact that you nitwits can't figure out the difference between Gate Is Open and Gate Is Closed.
And explain to me just how it is that you run into a gate that opens outward. Panic and back up? Get confused and go out the in gate?
Oh, and the speed limit is 25. Next person I see doing 50 is going to get me out of my car loan.
And explain to me just how it is that you run into a gate that opens outward. Panic and back up? Get confused and go out the in gate?
Oh, and the speed limit is 25. Next person I see doing 50 is going to get me out of my car loan.
Three Car Assrape
Today's accident: three cars in a rear-end collision. Turning left from Russell onto the Airport Connector. That's not a place where a reasonably aware person would get into that sort of accident. My guess is that someone panicked and jumped into the turn lane without looking.
I got stuck behind these bozos.
I think I may have caused another accident when I shot out into the next lane and took off. I don't like waiting, especially when everyone around me is stopped for no apparant reason - halted in some kind of brainlock waiting for someone else to show them the path to enlightenment.
The path to enlightment is under the gas pedal. You'll find it faster if you push the pedal down.
I got stuck behind these bozos.
I think I may have caused another accident when I shot out into the next lane and took off. I don't like waiting, especially when everyone around me is stopped for no apparant reason - halted in some kind of brainlock waiting for someone else to show them the path to enlightenment.
The path to enlightment is under the gas pedal. You'll find it faster if you push the pedal down.
Gimpy Walker
A couple of months ago I almost hit someone.
A pedestrian.
Seems that not everyone views a 4500 lbs black hurtling kinetic nightmare with bad tires quite like I do. See, I view it as impending death. I guess I'm in the minority.
Bad enough when I have to erch to a halt to avoid cars. But when a pedestrian walks into the middle of the road without looking, I get a bit more mad. There's a crosswalk 100 feet down the road - I expect people to wander into the middle of the road there...
Skip forward a couple of months.
On my way to work.
Driving the GT this time.
Someone walks out in front of me.
I stopped about a foot away from this guy. Then the smoke caught up with me. That pissed me off. Flatten my tires and cook my brakes because some guy can't use a sidewalk and can't see a bright red car?
Then he looked at me and ran off.
"YOU FUCKER! I RECOGNIZE YOU!"
Yup. Same guy. Same place.
I was half out of the car when I realized that there was traffic behind me and I better scooch before I get rearended. Now I drive up and down that stretch of Tropicana waiting for him. I want a chance to take the value of my tires and brakes out on his hide.
A pedestrian.
Seems that not everyone views a 4500 lbs black hurtling kinetic nightmare with bad tires quite like I do. See, I view it as impending death. I guess I'm in the minority.
Bad enough when I have to erch to a halt to avoid cars. But when a pedestrian walks into the middle of the road without looking, I get a bit more mad. There's a crosswalk 100 feet down the road - I expect people to wander into the middle of the road there...
Skip forward a couple of months.
On my way to work.
Driving the GT this time.
Someone walks out in front of me.
I stopped about a foot away from this guy. Then the smoke caught up with me. That pissed me off. Flatten my tires and cook my brakes because some guy can't use a sidewalk and can't see a bright red car?
Then he looked at me and ran off.
"YOU FUCKER! I RECOGNIZE YOU!"
Yup. Same guy. Same place.
I was half out of the car when I realized that there was traffic behind me and I better scooch before I get rearended. Now I drive up and down that stretch of Tropicana waiting for him. I want a chance to take the value of my tires and brakes out on his hide.
5/11/2004
Another Day, Another Accident
Three car rear-end situation on Tropicana East just before I95. Thanks fer screwin' up traffic, guys.
And someone broke the gate to our neighborhood again. Not sure how it could've happened, but the two outside corners on one gate are dented in. How does something like that happen?
And someone broke the gate to our neighborhood again. Not sure how it could've happened, but the two outside corners on one gate are dented in. How does something like that happen?
5/09/2004
Be My Neighbor
More about the neighborhood.
I saw a car completely stripped and up on blocks one morning. Stripped. Bare.
Last week I saw two guys get arrested at the local Albertsons.
There was an earthquake centered half a mile from my house.
Just down the street is where some lady in an SUV hit and killed a kid.
We like to say that the neighborhood has character.
I saw a car completely stripped and up on blocks one morning. Stripped. Bare.
Last week I saw two guys get arrested at the local Albertsons.
There was an earthquake centered half a mile from my house.
Just down the street is where some lady in an SUV hit and killed a kid.
We like to say that the neighborhood has character.
Let's Take A Tour
I bought a house.
It's a nice place. Gated community (which guards - they seem to be genuinely nice guys, too). Seems like a nice neighborhood.
But we're in Eastern Vegas. South of Boulder Station. Not a bad area, just, well, near Boulder Highway.
The first night I was moving stuff into the house a fire truck rumbled to a stop in front of the house. "Uh... Oh shit..." Then it took off and stopped two houses down. Eventually they wheeled my neighbor out on a stretcher. Bummer.
If you're not a local you might not know that most neighborhoods have a common wall. Typically it's made of cinderblocks or bricks and rings the entire neighborhood.
The speed limit near ours is 35 MPH. At 35 MPH, the average car could damage a section of wall by striking it head on. The driver would probably get hurt.
I came home from work one night. Noticed someone in an SUV with their hazard lights on. They were blocking a lane, pointed at the corner of the neighborhood wall. "Okay, someone with a broken car" thinks I.
So I move around it. I see bricks on the sidewalk. Hmm... SUV idiot probably bonked into the wall.
As I get further around I look over and notice a complete hole in the wall. Uh oh... There's a car in the yard. Far into the yard. You have to be going pretty fast to get a car completely through a cinderblock wall and into the yard.
Two days later someone put flowers by the wall. By now you should know what that means.
One thing I've noticed about the highways and the beltway here. Every day we'd see a new set of flowers somewhere.
Ominous.
It's a nice place. Gated community (which guards - they seem to be genuinely nice guys, too). Seems like a nice neighborhood.
But we're in Eastern Vegas. South of Boulder Station. Not a bad area, just, well, near Boulder Highway.
The first night I was moving stuff into the house a fire truck rumbled to a stop in front of the house. "Uh... Oh shit..." Then it took off and stopped two houses down. Eventually they wheeled my neighbor out on a stretcher. Bummer.
If you're not a local you might not know that most neighborhoods have a common wall. Typically it's made of cinderblocks or bricks and rings the entire neighborhood.
The speed limit near ours is 35 MPH. At 35 MPH, the average car could damage a section of wall by striking it head on. The driver would probably get hurt.
I came home from work one night. Noticed someone in an SUV with their hazard lights on. They were blocking a lane, pointed at the corner of the neighborhood wall. "Okay, someone with a broken car" thinks I.
So I move around it. I see bricks on the sidewalk. Hmm... SUV idiot probably bonked into the wall.
As I get further around I look over and notice a complete hole in the wall. Uh oh... There's a car in the yard. Far into the yard. You have to be going pretty fast to get a car completely through a cinderblock wall and into the yard.
Two days later someone put flowers by the wall. By now you should know what that means.
One thing I've noticed about the highways and the beltway here. Every day we'd see a new set of flowers somewhere.
Ominous.
Starting From Day One
Finally managed to move to Vegas. Been looking for a job here for years. Now I got one, and a house. I like this city.
But I hate the drivers.
I thought Seattle was bad. I thought San Francisco was bad. I thought Boston was the worst.
I was wrong.
Las Vegas seems to have attracted the worst of the worst.
Like Friday morning. Driving West on Tropicana, had just passed under I95 and was heading up the hill. I was in the middle lane of the three westbound lanes full of traffic. A pickup stopped in the median facing us. The wind caught something in the bed of the truck and dropped it into the lane next to me. The car to the left of me slammed on his brakes to avoid plowing into whatever fell out of the truck. I hit the gas - I knew what was going to happen. Sure enough -.
Oh, a few weeks ago I got rearended by a Mormon. Apparantly in Mormland if you believe hard enough, the guy in front of you doesn't actually exist. The whole time we're exchanging information I really just wanted to say "I'll bet even God didn't see that one coming."
When you listen to the traffic reports, you don't wonder if there's an accident, you wonder where it is.
People just do ... stupid ... things. Heading home a few days ago I ended up in the right lane behind someone who was weaving all over, slowing and speeding up, and spending a lot of time looking at his passenger. So I moved over a lane to the left to get around him. He speeds up and moves into my lane ahead of me. Then jumps into the far left lane and slams on his brakes. The guy he cuts off slams on his brakes, honks, and flips him off (all very well justified). So he honks back and flips off his poor victim. As if the entire thing wasn't his fault.
I saw a car overturned on the highway a few weeks ago. Long straight flat stretch. Why did he flip over?
I almost rearended someone when he freaked out and panick stopped because there was an ambulance in oncoming traffic.
Yellow lights mean go faster. Red lights mean nothing. You take you life in your hands if you're the first car into an intersection after a light change.
But I still like it here.
But I hate the drivers.
I thought Seattle was bad. I thought San Francisco was bad. I thought Boston was the worst.
I was wrong.
Las Vegas seems to have attracted the worst of the worst.
Like Friday morning. Driving West on Tropicana, had just passed under I95 and was heading up the hill. I was in the middle lane of the three westbound lanes full of traffic. A pickup stopped in the median facing us. The wind caught something in the bed of the truck and dropped it into the lane next to me. The car to the left of me slammed on his brakes to avoid plowing into whatever fell out of the truck. I hit the gas - I knew what was going to happen. Sure enough -
Oh, a few weeks ago I got rearended by a Mormon. Apparantly in Mormland if you believe hard enough, the guy in front of you doesn't actually exist. The whole time we're exchanging information I really just wanted to say "I'll bet even God didn't see that one coming."
When you listen to the traffic reports, you don't wonder if there's an accident, you wonder where it is.
People just do ... stupid ... things. Heading home a few days ago I ended up in the right lane behind someone who was weaving all over, slowing and speeding up, and spending a lot of time looking at his passenger. So I moved over a lane to the left to get around him. He speeds up and moves into my lane ahead of me. Then jumps into the far left lane and slams on his brakes. The guy he cuts off slams on his brakes, honks, and flips him off (all very well justified). So he honks back and flips off his poor victim. As if the entire thing wasn't his fault.
I saw a car overturned on the highway a few weeks ago. Long straight flat stretch. Why did he flip over?
I almost rearended someone when he freaked out and panick stopped because there was an ambulance in oncoming traffic.
Yellow lights mean go faster. Red lights mean nothing. You take you life in your hands if you're the first car into an intersection after a light change.
But I still like it here.
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