5 Stupid Things Abilene Drivers Do That Annoy Us

We all know that driving in Abilene can be a nightmare. In fact, it's just flat-out dangerous more times than not. A lot has to do with some of the jacked-up intersections in town. But, most of the time, it has to do with the stupid things that Abilene drivers do.

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Now, before I get hassled about this article, I have to say that I've been guilty of some of these as well. So, yes, I'm talking to myself too.

Hi, I'm Chaz, and sometimes I do stupid things while driving in Abilene.

Using Cell Phones

It doesn't matter if it's talking or texting, cell phone use while driving has gotten out of hand. Whether it's someone going super slow because they are jacking with their phone, taking selfies (yes, I've seen this) or those people that like to check their cell phone at a stoplight, people just don't pay attention to the road anymore. Add the fact that there are a ton of social media platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, and others where people are trying to get that funny video posted, and you got yourself a potentially dangerous situation.

Can't Merge Correctly

The turn lane is supposed to be used as, you guessed it, to turn from one road to another. Yet many will use it as a "merge lane". If you're one of those people, stop it! I've seen so many near accidents just in front of the studios here on South 1st because someone will try to merge from the lane or, better yet, get in the turn lane a mile down the road.

Also, people don't understand how to merge onto a highway. You're supposed to yield to the people already on the highway. Not muscle your way in or get mad because someone didn't move over because they couldn't. That said, if you're already on the highway, moving over for other vehicles is a smart and courteous thing to do.

Practically Coming to a Stop When Turning

Now, I'm not saying you need to be on two wheels as you turn. All I'm saying is that it is not necessary to almost come to a complete stop when turning from one road to another. Obviously, some circumstances, like a kid in the street, or another car stopped, would force you to stop. But, on a regular turn, there's no reason to, basically, come to a complete stop while turning.

Not Using the Turn Signal

Seriously, how hard is it to use that little lever by the steering wheel when you're making a turn? It's literally inches from your hand as you're driving! Yet people forget to use it all the time in Abilene. If they do use it, they wait until they are literally turning before they use the blinker. If you know how to use your cell phone, you should, at least, be able to use the blinker.

Racing the Train to the Crossing

Why? This is one of the most dangerous things you could ever do. Never try to race the train to the crossing. Ever. I've seen so many cars try to race over the tracks to avoid waiting on trains to roll through town. As irritating as it is to have to wait on the train, it's not worth losing your life because you're impatient. Plus, while you're waiting you can always check out the cool graffiti painted on the side of the cars.

Now, by all means, this is not a complete list. There are many other things that Abilene drivers do that get under our skin. But, these 5 things are at the top in my opinion.