Discipline

Driving is supposed to be a very disciplined activity, just by its definition. It’s all about the rules of the road and is dependent on everyone knowing what they are supposed to do, and carrying out their duties in a workman-like manner. So, when I approach a stop sign all other road users in the vicinity are supposed to be able to rely on me to stop at the appropriate place. In this country, the Spanish roads are notorious for indiscipline. It’s as though we’ve never heard of the word.

By comparison certain other countries develop drivers who are super disciplined, and it is an absolute eye opener to ride with such people. I have been passenger on two occasions when very careful people were driving the vehicles, and frankly, it was wonderful. I was somewhat concerned that other people had no idea of what was taking place. I could image conversations in the cars behind me going something like this: “What is he doing?” “I’m not sure, but it looks like he’s obeying the law.” “Why?”

I’m not talking about anything radical, just adhering to the rules that we are all supposed to know about. It goes something like this: After we all buckled up, our journey began. Even while we were still on the estate road turn signals were given, even if there were no other vehicles around. We maintained travel along the right side of the road, and when we came to stop signs we actually stopped and stood completely still for a count of three.

As we proceeded along the road we observed the speed limit signs precisely. Especially those signs that reduce speed were scruptously obeyed. In fact when we passed each sign our speed was compatible, even if our driver had to use the brakes to slow down.

Hands were always at the ten to two position except when shifting gears. No overtakes were even attempted except of tractors. When driving through towns our drivers were super alert to pedestrians suddenly appearing out in front of us, or traffic lights suddenly changing.

One of the drivers was from germany, and he explained that his reward for all that discipline was the autobahn when he can drive as fast as he wants. Even then he had never exceeded150 kmh/s.

This was all very commendable, and by comparison with the usual driver on Spanish roads was worthy of a medal. However, owing to the fundamental suspicious nature of the police, were they to be observers they would no doubt have wondered: what is that man carrying that is so illegal that he does not want to give us any cause to stop him?

Sometimes it’s very difficult to win.

Copyright © 2008 Eugene Carmichael