Land Rovers and more...

It was an interesting commute into the city this morning. Ventura Boulevard  was the start of my route - the 101 was packed all the way back to Calabassas.

Approaching Haskell Ave.  A black Land Rover suddenly jutted diagonally out in front of me at an odd angle.  I saw them and was able to stop but looked to see where they'd come from - and where they were going.  They had cut across 3 lanes - without a turn signal - to pull into McDonalds.  This was in a matter of maybe 15 seconds.  When they pulled in front of me their back end was still 2 lanes over!

I don't begrudge anyone their breakfast, coffee etc.  I am prone to the occasional junk food binge myself and absolutely must have my morning coffee (you don't want to meet me before I've had my first cup :) ).  Pulling across 3 lanes of bumper to bumper vehicles to get there is not something I'd consider - especially on a rainy day when people have a harder time coming to a sudden stop.

Once at the 405 I merged from the on-ramp to the lane closest on my left.  Folks were more patient than usual and did not speed up as soon as they saw my turn signal (that is the typical reaction to people who *do* use turn signals.)  I usually move over one more lane to the left because the original lane merged into is going to end within about a mile.  It was a pleasant surprise when a green Toyota van saw my signal and actually slowed to allow me in.  The courtesy impressed me :)

Shortly thereafter a white Chevy van pulled in front from my right - again no signal - and coninued to drift for another lane - still no signal.  It was a brand new panel van - no plates yet.  Let's hope they are able to keep it in one piece for now.

When the lane to my right finally ended a gray Honda Civic was on the shoulder still trying to get in front of everyone.  They cut off the guy in front of me, causing him to slam on his brakes.  This is why they tell you not to drive 6 inches from the next guy/gal's bumper ;)  Fortunately - I wasn't and his reaction time was good.

Yes, people are in a hurry.  Yes, some may have true emergencies.  But, if you end up in an accident you're not going to get there any faster - and maybe not at all.