Flashing headlights and tailgating are road rage: Why driving etiquette matters

Motorists on highways would have encountered drivers in a tearing hurry — especially if you happened to be in the left lane, often (and mistakenly) considered the fast lane.

The left lane is meant strictly for overtaking. You pass the vehicle in front, then move back to the right. You’re not supposed to stay in the left lane; it’s reserved for those overtaking.

That’s how it should be.

But not all motorists follow it. Speeders, who seem to think they own the road, treat the left lane as their personal expressway. They expect an uninterrupted run all the way through and assume everyone else should just move aside.

If you don’t, they’ll start flashing their headlights aggressively, trying to force you over. And if you still don't move fast enough, they’ll tailgate dangerously close — trying to intimidate you into switching lanes. It’s unsettling and unnecessary.

Personally, I avoid the left lane unless I’m overtaking. Yet, there was a time when I was flashed at even in an inside lane. I wasbaffled. But then again, a bad driver is a bad driver — regardless of the lane.

What many motorists forget is this: these are public roads, and we all have a duty to behave with basic decency. How you act on the road says a lot about who you are off it. Disrespectful behaviour doesn't just reflect poorly on the driver — it disrupts the peace and safety of others too.

Yes, everyone’s in a hurry. But that’s no licence to bully fellow drivers.

Road etiquette matters. Respect the motorists around you. No driver should endanger the lives of others. In fact, it pays to drive defensively, not aggressively.

Avoid flashing headlights or honking unnecessarily. Don't tailgate. Most drivers aren’t blocking you on purpose. Be patient. More often than not, they’ll move over as soon as it’s safe.

I usually give way to anyone merging into my lane. It’s a small courtesy, but it makes a big difference. One day, you’ll need that same courtesy extended to you.

And when merging yourself, don’t cut in abruptly. Show your intent, wait for a gap, and merge when someone makes space. These are subtle non-verbal cues to communicate on the road. Sometimes, a fellow driver will even wave you through — don’t forget to respond with a thank you.

Some signal it with a quick blink of their hazard lights. Others raise a hand in appreciation. It's a small gesture, but always heartening to see. It reminds you that there’s still kindness on the road.

That’s how it should be. Roads are shared spaces. We all have a responsibility to use them responsibly.

So next time you’re tempted to flash your headlights at the car ahead, pause for just a moment. Let them move when they can. A little patience goes a long way.