A statute in Tennessee addresses autos that impede the stream of site visitors by touring at a velocity lower than the conventional velocity of site visitors on the time and place on a multilane freeway. Such laws usually goals to enhance site visitors stream and scale back potential hazards related to important velocity differentials between autos.
The first good thing about such a legislation is enhanced security by minimizing congestion and the chance of rear-end collisions. It additionally contributes to extra environment friendly use of freeway capability, lowering journey instances and gasoline consumption. Traditionally, these statutes emerged as a response to rising considerations about site visitors congestion and the necessity to optimize freeway efficiency.
The next sections will delve into particular particulars relating to the appliance of this statute, together with enforcement mechanisms, penalties for violations, and exceptions which will apply underneath sure circumstances, providing a complete overview.
1. Multilane highways
Multilane highways kind the very basis upon which the “gradual poke legislation tn” operates. With out the existence of a number of lanes touring in the identical route, the idea of impeding site visitors by occupying the left lane turns into moot. These expansive roadways, designed to accommodate larger volumes of site visitors and ranging speeds, inherently create the potential for slower autos to hinder the progress of sooner ones. The legislation, due to this fact, particularly targets this state of affairs to mitigate the ensuing congestion and security dangers.
Think about a three-lane freeway throughout rush hour. The left lane, sometimes reserved for passing, turns into clogged by a automobile touring considerably slower than the prevailing velocity. This creates a ripple impact, forcing different drivers to brake, merge, and maneuver across the obstacle. The ensuing slowdown not solely will increase journey time for everybody but in addition elevates the probability of accidents as a consequence of abrupt modifications in velocity and lane place. The statute acknowledges that this case is way extra prevalent and problematic on multilane roadways, thus necessitating its particular utility in such contexts. Previous to the statute the site visitors stream was at all times closely delayed for an extended time.
In essence, multilane highways present the context, and the potential drawback, that the laws addresses. The statute acts as a site visitors administration device, making certain the environment friendly utilization of those high-capacity roadways. With out this understanding of the basic connection between the infrastructure and the authorized framework, the aim and significance of the statute could be vastly diminished. Imposing the legislation on multilane highways is like sustaining the arteries of a metropolis: important for easy circulation and total well-being.
2. Impeding site visitors stream
The core precept underlying the “gradual poke legislation tn” is the idea of impeding site visitors stream. Think about a river: a easy, steady present permits boats to navigate effectively. Place a big impediment within the river, and the stream is disrupted, inflicting delays and potential collisions. Equally, on a multilane freeway, a automobile touring considerably slower than the prevailing velocity acts as that impediment, hindering the pure motion of site visitors. This impedance manifests as decreased speeds for all following autos, elevated congestion, and a heightened threat of accidents as drivers try to maneuver across the obstruction. With out this understanding of impeded stream, the statute is rendered meaningless. It’s, in essence, the issue to which the legislation gives an answer.
Contemplate the sensible implications. A business truck, lumbering uphill on a busy interstate, occupies the left lane, forcing a line of vehicles behind it to decelerate. Drivers turn out to be pissed off, some trying dangerous passes on the suitable shoulder, others tailgating in hopes that the truck will transfer over. Your entire system slows down, consuming extra gasoline and making a disturbing, doubtlessly harmful setting. The statute instantly addresses this state of affairs by mandating that slower autos stay in the suitable lane, permitting the faster-moving site visitors to proceed unhindered. The impact is a smoother, extra predictable stream of site visitors, enhancing each security and effectivity.
The “gradual poke legislation tn,” at its coronary heart, seeks to revive and preserve the pure rhythm of site visitors stream. It acknowledges that whereas slower autos have a proper to be on the street, their actions shouldn’t unduly impede the progress of others. By defining and addressing the problem of impeding site visitors, the statute contributes to a safer and extra environment friendly freeway system for all customers. This straightforward, but highly effective idea, is the cornerstone of its effectiveness and the rationale for its continued relevance in site visitors administration.
3. Regular site visitors velocity
The phrase “regular site visitors velocity” serves because the elusive benchmark in opposition to which the “gradual poke legislation tn” measures compliance. It isn’t merely the posted velocity restrict, however a extra fluid, dynamic idea dictated by prevailing situations, the collective velocity of autos sharing the roadway. This nebulous customary is without delay the legislation’s power and its potential weak spot.
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The Ever-Shifting Baseline
Defining “regular site visitors velocity” proves difficult. It isn’t static, rigidly fastened to a quantity on a signpost. As a substitute, it ebbs and flows with the tide of site visitors quantity, climate situations, and even the time of day. Throughout rush hour, “regular” is likely to be a crawl; on a transparent, open stretch, it might method the posted restrict, and even barely exceed it as drivers collectively nudge the boundaries. This variability calls for a level of subjective judgment from legislation enforcement, introducing a component of ambiguity that has spurred debate.
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The Hazard of Disparity
The importance of sustaining a velocity near the “regular” tempo lies in minimizing the chance of collisions. Dramatic velocity differentials create a hazardous setting. A automobile touring considerably slower than the encompassing site visitors turns into a stationary impediment in a sea of movement, forcing others to brake, swerve, and doubtlessly lose management. The statute, due to this fact, seeks to cut back these disparities, making a extra homogenous stream that enhances security.
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The Enforcement Conundrum
Imposing the provisions tied to “regular site visitors velocity” necessitates a nuanced method. A patrol officer can’t merely depend on a radar gun. They have to assess the general tempo of site visitors, contemplating components past a single automobile’s velocity. This requires expertise, sound judgment, and the flexibility to articulate a transparent, justifiable rationale for issuing a quotation. The inherent subjectivity invitations scrutiny and potential challenges to the legislation’s utility.
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Past the Letter of the Regulation
Finally, the “gradual poke legislation tn” and its reliance on “regular site visitors velocity” encourage a tradition of consciousness and consideration amongst drivers. It prompts people to evaluate their very own velocity in relation to the encompassing site visitors, selling accountable lane utilization and a better understanding of how particular person actions impression the general stream. This shift in mindset, arguably, is as vital as the precise enforcement of the legislation itself.
The interaction between “regular site visitors velocity” and the statute underscores the complexities of managing site visitors stream on fashionable highways. It’s a fixed balancing act, requiring each clear authorized pointers and a level of particular person accountability to realize a safer, extra environment friendly transportation system. The continued dialogue surrounding the exact definition and enforcement of “regular site visitors velocity” is a testomony to the ever-evolving challenges of navigating this dynamic panorama.
4. Minimal velocity requirement
The existence, or lack thereof, of a minimal velocity requirement casts a protracted shadow over the effectiveness of any “gradual poke legislation tn.” Contemplate a freeway, stretching throughout the state like a concrete river. Automobiles navigate its lanes, some speeding to fulfill deadlines, others leisurely having fun with the journey. With out a clearly outlined decrease restrict, a major drawback emerges. A automobile, although not technically violating the posted velocity restrict, might nonetheless crawl alongside, making a cellular roadblock, hindering the progress of numerous others. This case instantly contradicts the very goal of the “gradual poke legislation tn,” which goals to make sure the environment friendly and secure stream of site visitors. The absence of a minimal velocity primarily renders the legislation toothless, a mere suggestion somewhat than a binding regulation.
Think about a state of affairs: a tractor-trailer, burdened by a heavy load, struggles to take care of velocity on an uphill grade. The posted velocity restrict is 70 mph, however the truck can solely handle 45 mph. It occupies the left lane, forcing sooner autos to brake sharply and maneuver dangerously to move on the suitable. Whereas not exceeding the velocity restrict, the truck is severely impeding site visitors, making a doubtlessly catastrophic state of affairs. A minimal velocity requirement, maybe set at 55 mph on that exact stretch of freeway, would offer legislation enforcement with the mandatory authority to deal with the problem, compelling the truck to maneuver to the suitable lane or face a penalty. The sensible significance is obvious: a minimal velocity ensures that the “gradual poke legislation tn” has the tooth to truly tackle conditions the place unreasonably gradual autos disrupt site visitors stream.
In conclusion, the presence of a minimal velocity requirement is just not merely an ancillary element, however a crucial element of a very efficient “gradual poke legislation tn.” It gives the mandatory basis for enforcement, permitting authorities to deal with conditions the place autos, although not violating posted limits, nonetheless create hazardous situations by touring at an unacceptably gradual tempo. With out this provision, the legislation turns into a diluted model of its meant goal, failing to totally tackle the complexities of sustaining secure and environment friendly site visitors stream on Tennessee’s highways. The minimal velocity acts as a guardian, stopping the spirit of the gradual poke legislation from being undermined by mere technicalities.
5. Proper lane utilization
The “gradual poke legislation tn” finds its most tangible expression within the mandate for proper lane utilization. Image a freeway, arteries of asphalt carrying the lifeblood of commerce and connection. The left lane, historically reserved for passing, turns into a chokepoint when slower autos, detached to the stream, stake their declare. The results ripple outward: frustration mounts, accidents turn out to be extra doubtless, and the effectivity of your complete transportation community suffers. The requirement to make the most of the suitable lane is just not merely a suggestion; it’s the mechanism by which the laws interprets intention into motion, channeling slower site visitors into designated pathways and permitting sooner autos to proceed unimpeded.
Contemplate the driving force, burdened with a heavy load or just preferring a extra relaxed tempo. Beneath this rule, that driver is compelled to yield the left lane, recognizing that the street belongs to all, not simply the slowest. This straightforward act of compliance unlocks a cascade of constructive results. Congestion eases, journey instances lower, and the general security of the freeway improves. The precise lane turns into the area of those that select a extra deliberate journey, whereas the left lane stays open for these looking for to overhaul and advance. The legislation’s enforcement serves as a continuing reminder of this shared accountability, fostering a way of order and predictability on Tennessee’s roadways.
The insistence on proper lane utilization is, due to this fact, not merely about velocity; it’s about respect for the collective good. It acknowledges that particular person selections have penalties, and {that a} small act of compliance can yield important advantages for your complete group of drivers. By adhering to this basic precept, motorists contribute to a safer, extra environment friendly, and finally extra nice driving expertise for all who share the street. The statute’s enforcement ensures the arteries of commerce and connection stay open, facilitating the graceful stream of recent life.
6. Enforcement authority
The narrative of the “gradual poke legislation tn” stays incomplete with out acknowledging the position of enforcement authority. Contemplate the legislation itself as a fastidiously constructed machine, designed to optimize site visitors stream and improve security. With out the correct personnel to function and preserve that machine, its intricate gears grind to a halt, rendering its potential advantages unrealized. Enforcement authority, on this context, embodies the devoted officers patrolling the highways, observing site visitors patterns, and intervening when essential to make sure compliance. Their presence serves as a continuing reminder that the foundations of the street are usually not mere options, however binding laws with tangible penalties. With out their vigilance, the statute turns into a mere suggestion.
Image a state trooper, positioned strategically on a busy stretch of interstate. He observes a automobile, dawdling within the left lane, impeding the progress of quite a few others. Armed with the authority to implement the legislation, he initiates a site visitors cease, educating the driving force concerning the significance of proper lane utilization and issuing a quotation if essential. This single act, replicated numerous instances throughout the state, demonstrates the sensible significance of enforcement. Every interplay reinforces the understanding that impeding site visitors is not going to be tolerated, making a tradition of compliance that finally advantages all drivers. Conversely, think about a state of affairs the place enforcement is lax or nonexistent. Phrase spreads rapidly that the “gradual poke legislation tn” is never enforced, and drivers revert to their outdated habits, clogging the left lane and disrupting site visitors stream. The advantages of the statute evaporate, changed by frustration and elevated threat.
Finally, the effectiveness of the “gradual poke legislation tn” hinges on the diligence and dedication of legislation enforcement. They’re the guardians of the freeway, making certain that the foundations are adopted and that the potential advantages of the statute are absolutely realized. With out their lively participation, the legislation stays a theoretical idea, a well-intentioned effort that falls in need of its meant aim. The enforcement authority stands because the crucial hyperlink between laws and actuality, remodeling phrases on paper into tangible enhancements in site visitors stream and freeway security. The authority to implement ensures order and protects the residents on highways.
7. Penalties
The “gradual poke legislation tn” stands as a testomony to the state’s dedication to environment friendly and secure freeway transit. But, with out the tooth of potential penalties, it dangers changing into a mere suggestion, simply disregarded amidst the push of recent life. The fines, courtroom prices, and potential factors in opposition to a driving document are usually not arbitrary punishments, however somewhat calibrated incentives designed to encourage compliance and deter behaviors that impede site visitors stream. These are the results that present the laws true pressure, making certain order on the roadways.
Think about a protracted haul trucker, weary from numerous miles, settling into the left lane, oblivious to the autos stacking up behind. Maybe they’re unaware of the statute, or maybe they merely underestimate its significance. Then comes the flashing blue lights within the rearview mirror. The following quotation, with its monetary burden and potential impression on their business driving license, serves as a stark reminder: particular person selections on the freeway have wider ramifications. The penalties act as a strong deterrent, influencing conduct not simply in that particular occasion, but in addition sooner or later. They’re the scales that steadiness particular person comfort in opposition to the collective well-being of all freeway customers.
The inclusion of penalties throughout the “gradual poke legislation tn” framework represents a recognition that guidelines alone are inadequate to ensure compliance. The specter of penalties, fastidiously calibrated and persistently utilized, is the catalyst that transforms a well-intentioned statute right into a tangible pressure for safer and extra environment friendly highways. Whereas the perfect end result is voluntary adherence, the existence of penalties serves as an important safeguard, making certain that the pursuits of the various are usually not sacrificed for the comfort of the few.
8. Exceptions
The “gradual poke legislation tn,” although seemingly simple, is tempered by a crucial ingredient: exceptions. These exemptions, meticulously crafted, acknowledge that strict adherence to the right-lane mandate is just not at all times possible or secure. They’re the security valves, stopping the legislation from changing into an rigid instrument that might inadvertently create extra issues than it solves. Contemplate, as an illustration, the mountainous terrain that characterizes elements of Tennessee. A closely laden truck ascending a steep incline might battle to take care of the “regular velocity of site visitors,” even in the suitable lane. Forcing such a automobile to stay in that lane might create a bottleneck, as faster-moving autos are pressured to navigate round it on the shoulder or via different harmful maneuvers. The exception for such circumstances acknowledges the sensible limitations imposed by geography and automobile functionality.
Equally, inclement climate can dramatically alter driving situations. Throughout a torrential downpour or a dense fog, visibility could also be severely restricted, and the street floor might turn out to be treacherous. In such conditions, sustaining a slower velocity within the left lane is likely to be the most secure plan of action, permitting drivers to react extra successfully to sudden hazards. An exception for these situations acknowledges that security should take priority over strict adherence to the legislation. With out these thoughtfully thought-about exceptions, the “gradual poke legislation tn” could be a blunt instrument, utilized indiscriminately, doubtlessly endangering the very drivers it seeks to guard. The absence of understanding of exceptions would create much more accidents in several conditions.
In essence, the exceptions to the “gradual poke legislation tn” are usually not loopholes designed to bypass the statute’s intent, however somewhat important safeguards that guarantee its accountable and efficient utility. They’re a testomony to the cautious consideration given to the various vary of circumstances encountered on Tennessee’s highways, acknowledging that security and practicality should at all times information the enforcement of site visitors legal guidelines. By balancing the necessity for environment friendly site visitors stream with the realities of difficult driving situations, these exceptions contribute to a extra nuanced and finally more practical regulatory framework.
9. Security
The genesis of the “gradual poke legislation tn” is rooted in a basic crucial: security. Highways, by their very nature, current inherent dangers. Automobiles of various sizes and capabilities traverse these roadways at appreciable speeds, making a dynamic and doubtlessly hazardous setting. Any disruption to the graceful stream of site visitors amplifies these risks exponentially. A automobile dawdling within the left lane, impeding sooner site visitors, acts as a catalyst for a sequence response of abrupt braking, dangerous lane modifications, and escalating frustration, every hyperlink within the chain growing the probability of a collision. The statute, due to this fact, is just not merely about comfort or effectivity; it’s a proactive measure designed to mitigate these dangers and shield the lives of Tennessee’s drivers and passengers.
Contemplate the aftermath of a typical rear-end collision, a state of affairs typically precipitated by sudden and sudden modifications in velocity. The crumpled steel, the shattered glass, and, tragically, the potential for critical accidents function a stark reminder of the results of impeded site visitors stream. Regulation enforcement officers, responding to those scenes day after day, witness firsthand the human price of those preventable accidents. The “gradual poke legislation tn,” of their view, is just not an summary authorized idea, however a significant device for stopping such tragedies. By encouraging slower autos to stay in the suitable lane, the statute reduces the probability of sudden braking and lane modifications, making a extra predictable and safer driving setting. It transforms the freeway from a chaotic free-for-all right into a extra organized and controlled area, the place security is prioritized over particular person comfort.
In conclusion, the connection between security and the “gradual poke legislation tn” is inseparable. The statute is just not merely a method of expediting site visitors stream; it’s a crucial element of a complete technique to attenuate the dangers inherent in freeway journey. By lowering congestion, selling lane self-discipline, and making a extra predictable driving setting, the legislation contributes on to the security and well-being of all who share Tennessee’s roadways. Whereas challenges stay when it comes to enforcement and public consciousness, the basic goal of the statute stays clear: to guard lives and forestall accidents by selling safer driving practices.
Continuously Requested Questions Concerning the Sluggish Poke Regulation TN
These questions tackle widespread considerations and misconceptions surrounding the statute, offering readability on its sensible utility.
Query 1: What precisely constitutes “impeding site visitors stream” underneath the “gradual poke legislation tn?”
Contemplate a state of affairs: A driver, having fun with a leisurely Sunday drive, settles into the left lane of a busy interstate, touring considerably under the posted velocity restrict and the prevailing velocity of surrounding autos. A line of vehicles begins to kind behind, drivers rising more and more pissed off and compelled to maneuver across the obstacle. This case exemplifies “impeding site visitors stream.” It isn’t merely about driving under the velocity restrict, however about disrupting the pure rhythm of site visitors by creating a major velocity differential.
Query 2: How is “regular site visitors velocity” decided, and who decides if a automobile is touring too slowly?
Think about a courtroom scene: A driver, contesting a quotation for violating the statute, argues that they have been merely adhering to the posted velocity restrict. The prosecuting lawyer counters that the “regular site visitors velocity” was significantly larger, and that the driving force’s actions created a hazard. “Regular site visitors velocity” is just not a set quantity, however a dynamic measure assessed by legislation enforcement officers primarily based on prevailing situations, site visitors quantity, and the velocity of surrounding autos. The officer’s judgment, although subjective, should be grounded in observable information and able to being articulated clearly in courtroom.
Query 3: Are there any exceptions to the “gradual poke legislation tn,” and what circumstances would possibly justify driving slowly within the left lane?
Image a mountain move: A closely laden truck, struggling to ascend a steep grade, occupies the left lane, its engine straining underneath the immense weight. Forcing it to maneuver to the suitable lane could be not solely impractical however doubtlessly harmful, because it might create a bottleneck and enhance the chance of accidents. The statute acknowledges such circumstances, offering exceptions for conditions the place geography, automobile functionality, or inclement climate necessitate slower speeds within the left lane. These exceptions are usually not loopholes, however safeguards that make sure the legislation is utilized fairly and responsibly.
Query 4: What are the penalties for violating the “gradual poke legislation tn,” and the way will it have an effect on the driving force’s document?
Envision a driver receiving a quotation: The sting of the effective, the potential impression on insurance coverage charges, and the addition of factors to their driving document all function potent deterrents. The penalties related to violating the statute are usually not meant to be punitive, however somewhat to incentivize compliance and promote safer driving practices. The precise penalties differ relying on the jurisdiction and the driving force’s historical past, however the underlying message is obvious: impeding site visitors has real-world repercussions.
Query 5: If a driver is cited for violating the “gradual poke legislation tn,” how can they problem the quotation in courtroom?
Contemplate a courtroom setting: The driving force, represented by authorized counsel, presents proof to problem the officer’s evaluation of “regular site visitors velocity” or argues that they have been working underneath an exception to the statute. Difficult a quotation requires demonstrating that the officer’s judgment was flawed or that extenuating circumstances justified the driving force’s actions. This course of underscores the significance of due course of and the suitable to contest accusations.
Query 6: How does “gradual poke legislation tn” contribute to total freeway security and effectivity?
Think about a freeway flowing easily: Automobiles transfer at a constant tempo, lane modifications are minimal, and the chance of accidents is considerably decreased. That is the imaginative and prescient that the statute seeks to understand. By selling lane self-discipline and minimizing velocity differentials, the legislation contributes to a extra predictable and safer driving setting. Its not a panacea, however an important element of a complete technique to enhance freeway security and effectivity for all customers.
The statute is designed to extend security and optimize site visitors stream. Exceptions guarantee it isn’t utilized unfairly, and violations have penalties to implement compliance.
The following part will delve into real-world situations and supply sensible ideas for complying with “gradual poke legislation tn.”
Ideas for Navigating Tennessee Highways with Confidence
These pointers are meant to foster accountable driving habits and guarantee adherence to Tennessee’s site visitors laws. The emphasis is on selling security, effectivity, and a shared understanding of roadway etiquette.
Tip 1: Embrace Proper Lane Precedence. Think about traversing a multilane freeway. A gentle stream of autos strikes in the direction of the horizon. Except actively overtaking one other automobile, stay within the rightmost lane. This straightforward act ensures a smoother stream of site visitors, minimizing congestion and lowering the probability of frustration-induced errors. It is greater than a rule; it is a precept of shared accountability.
Tip 2: Assess Visitors Rhythm. On method to the freeway, take a second to gauge the prevailing tempo. Is site visitors flowing freely, or is it stop-and-go? Adapt velocity to match the general stream, avoiding extreme velocity differentials that may create hazards. A eager consciousness of environment is paramount to making sure each security and authorized compliance.
Tip 3: Keep Vigilance in Left Lane. The left lane serves a particular goal: overtaking. Upon finishing a move, promptly return to the suitable lane. Extended occupancy of the left lane, even when touring on the velocity restrict, can impede sooner site visitors and doubtlessly draw the eye of legislation enforcement. Intent is just not a defend in opposition to the legislation’s dictates.
Tip 4: Heed Posted Signage. Tennessee highways are replete with indicators conveying crucial info: velocity limits, lane designations, and warnings of upcoming hazards. Pay shut consideration to those indicators, adjusting driving conduct accordingly. Ignorance of the signage is just not a legitimate protection in opposition to a quotation.
Tip 5: Contemplate Car Limitations. Acknowledge inherent limitations, significantly when working a big truck or towing a trailer. Ascending steep grades might require decreased velocity. Activate hazard lights, signaling to different drivers that warning is warranted. Transparency and predictability are beneficial belongings on the freeway.
Tip 6: Train Prudence in Antagonistic Circumstances. Rain, fog, or snow dramatically alter driving dynamics. Scale back velocity, enhance following distance, and keep away from pointless lane modifications. The left lane, in such circumstances, might turn out to be a entice. Security should supersede all different issues.
Tip 7: Be Conscious of Blind Spots. The “gradual poke legislation tn” works each methods. When overtaking one other automobile, guarantee a transparent understanding of that automobile’s blind spots. A fast look over the shoulder can stop doubtlessly catastrophic collisions. Consciousness promotes warning, and consciousness helps security.
Tip 8: Keep Knowledgeable. Understanding native site visitors legal guidelines is significant. Overview Tennessee’s driving laws periodically, remaining abreast of any modifications or updates. Proactive information is the simplest protection in opposition to unintentional violations.
The underlying theme connecting these pointers is respect: respect for the legislation, respect for fellow drivers, and, most significantly, respect for private security. Adherence to those ideas fosters a safer and extra environment friendly freeway setting for all.
The next part affords a conclusive abstract of the “gradual poke legislation tn” and its implications for Tennessee drivers.
The Unfolding Street Forward
The exploration of “gradual poke legislation tn” reveals greater than a easy site visitors regulation. It exposes a seamless narrative of balancing particular person liberties with the collective want for security and effectivity on public roadways. From defining ‘regular site visitors velocity’ to delineating exceptions for slower autos, the nuances of this laws mirror ongoing efforts to optimize the stream of site visitors. It turns into obvious the laws has an try to maintain autos touring as quick as potential and as easy as potential.
As Tennessee’s highways proceed to evolve, understanding and adherence to those laws turns into ever extra essential. Every driver’s actions contribute to the tapestry of the driving expertise, influencing not solely private journey but in addition the security and well-being of everybody sharing the street. Drive responsibly. Drive conscious. Drive with the understanding that this can be a matter of legislation. In doing so, one contributes to a safer and extra environment friendly future for all.
