Re: Passing/Lane Hogs -Reply

[Andrew Fletcher <FLETCHA@citec.qld.gov.au>]

>>> Michael Shields <shields@tembel.org> 10/February/1997 02:33pm
>>>
> Scenario: Somebody is going 15mph less than the limit on a clear sunny
> day in the leftmost lane of a 4-lane highway. Are you going to pass on
> the right?

Damn right! As I approach I signal with my head lights (though I  always
drive with my lights on if I am travelling faster than the general traffic
anyway).
If they do not move across by the time I get to them, I go round, whatever
side (with some caution).

There is something called common law (thankfully) which basically
allows a judge to make a ruling with common sense instead of sticking
absolutely to the written legislation. Judges can be a little hestitant about
using it as it can set a nasty precident if they aren't careful. However, in
this case the judge can decide that the safest course of action was to
overtake on the "incorrect" side and dismiss any charge.

Related issue starts here-------------------------------------

You can legally proceed through a red traffic light in Qld. Which is why
the use of red light cameras in QLD was stopped until the legislation
could be re-written on the use of Red Light cameras. Seemingly you only
have to stop for a red light if it is safe to do so. IE "Your honor, there
was this really big truck behind me that was obviously speeding and
couldn't stop so I proceeded through the intersection...."

There is actually a law against driving in the right hand lane (I am in Oz)
unless you are overtaking. It's about time they (the police) enforced it
properly! If the cops try to charge me with improper overtaking I'll being
seeing 'em in court...... 

As a good friend says ....
Choice = Reward * Risk * Consequences.

Fletch
'81 urQ 95K miles
"parts arriving Easter Bunny Xpress"