Be a road etiquette champion: Simple ways to make driving better for everyone

Etiquette, no matter the situation, is all about being kind, courteous and thoughtful of others. In our busy lives, it’s easy to forget our manners as we focus on getting places and checking items off our endless to-do lists. Trust me, I know. But it’s the little things that really make a difference to others and to our own well-being. Don’t you feel better about yourself when you treat others with courtesy? I know I do.

A friend recently shared her frustration with the rudeness of Seattle drivers, particularly how people don’t acknowledge her courtesy when she yields on crowded neighborhood streets or lets them merge. Her experience got me thinking about how simple gestures can transform our daily commute from a source of stress into an opportunity for connection. Here are some tips to help you be a road etiquette champion.

Lane Courtesy

If you’re in the left lane, move right if faster traffic is behind you, regardless of whether you’re going the speed limit. The left lane is for passing, and blocking it creates frustration and unsafe passing situations. And if you’re a slow driver stay in the right lane and drive at the speed limit.

Signal Your Intentions

Turn signals aren’t optional—they’re essential communication tools. Use them when turning, changing lanes or merging. You’ll let the person behind you know you’ll be slowing down to make a turn, helping avoid possible collisions and keeping traffic flowing smoothly.

The Power of the Wave

When someone lets you merge ahead of them or yields to you in some way, be sure to wave to show your thanks. It’s a small gesture that acknowledges their courtesy and often brightens their day. Another appropriate time to wave is when you make a mistake—maybe you accidentally cut someone off. A quick apologetic wave can acknowledge your error and defuse tension before it escalates.

Merging with Grace

Allow space for merging vehicles rather than speeding up to block them. When you need to merge, match the speed of traffic and find an appropriate gap rather than forcing your way in. Use the zipper merge technique in construction zones or slowdowns—stay in your lane until the merge point, then alternate with other drivers like a zipper closing.

Parking Lot Etiquette

Park within the lines and avoid taking up multiple spaces. When walking to your car, be aware of drivers looking for spots and give them a clear signal if you’re leaving. Drive slowly through parking lots and watch for pedestrians and car doors opening—these areas are full of unpredictable movement.

The Golden Rule of Driving

The golden rule applies perfectly to driving: treat other drivers the way you’d want to be treated when you’re having a stressful day or made an honest mistake. A little patience and understanding can transform not just your driving experience, but theirs too.

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