County, state police target aggressive drivers on I-97

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Trust me - 2010-06-07 15:33:57

Sal I guarantee someone will post.Someone will respond to at least one of my last couple posts.

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bob builder - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible

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Nick - 2010-06-07 15:03:53

This pond is fished out.

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Salvatorre Bagatelli - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Good

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I gotta ask - 2010-06-07 13:28:48

OK Rick has asked or stated the following things to me. " How are we supposed to believe anything you say, since you have told falsehoods in other posts?", "check your Karma, must be a few people around that dont believe what you say." "Bob Did this really happen, or is your imagination running away with you, again?" Now thats 3 different posts where he states he doesnt believe anything I say.So am I the only one that doesnt understand why he keeps coming back and worrying about me.I bet when he drives by a car accident even though he knows he shouldnt he slows down and looks.

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bob builder - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible

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Hey Nick - 2010-06-07 12:52:53

Do you have this often where the same people just keep saying the same old thing?I swear Rick says the same old thing over and over but just phrases it different.

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bob builder - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible

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Oh look - 2010-06-07 12:39:48

Again Rick has no clue.I didnt say the satement was made in this thread now did I.No I did not ,I simply said that some one claimed I was him.Didnt mention this thread at all.Oh I know it must be because I'm so upset over my karma,NOT!!!

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bob builder - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible

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Bob - 2010-06-07 12:11:48

So somebody called you Shubbie on here. Funny, I couldnt find that post anyway. Did this really happen, or is your imagination running away with you, again?

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Rick M - Laurel, Md - Karma: Excellent

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Plus - 2010-06-07 07:58:39

What attidude are you trying to change.You guys are the ones making all these claims with nothing to back it up with.Jorge claims that passing on the right is dangerous.When and who decided this.Does he have any statistics to back it up.I never said there arent people that make risky moves while driving.But guess what their do this no matter what lane I'm in.During normal traffic I am almost always behind someone else.So even if I moved over now the car behind me is now behind the car that was in front of me plus along side me.Also Russ if you dont believe anything I say why would you be trying to change me.As I stated earlier with my 4 little scenarios I could just be having fun like Nick said in an earlier post.

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bob builder - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible

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So - 2010-06-07 07:50:42

And what exactly does this mean to me Russ.You stated"I just hope that I can someday be in the left lane doing 5 over with you behind me and heavy traffic to the right. (As long as I am passing cars, I will be there)"I was simply keep grin and bare it Russ.I dont have an issue with being stuck behind someone in the left lane.In your little scenario I would just cruise behind you until my exit was getting close.But now I need to ask.Why do you think I'd care if I was stuck behind you.

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bob builder - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible

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Also... - 2010-06-07 06:54:33

The way you choose to drive apparently does not affect me while I am in my vehicle, since I try to stay withing 5mph of the limit. In fact, people like you who routinely drive 10mph over the limit, or more, probably keep me from getting a ticket when I occasionally fail to maintain proper attention to how fast I might be going. I just hope that I can someday be in the left lane doing 5 over with you behind me and heavy traffic to the right. (As long as I am passing cars, I will be there)

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Russ Patterson - Stevensville, MD - Karma: Neutral

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What I meant was... - 2010-06-07 06:46:37

I was giving up trying to(help you by) changing your attitude toward your fellow road travellers. I realized it was impossible due to your state.(not PA)

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Russ Patterson - Stevensville, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Sorry - 2010-06-06 21:23:50

I meant to say why should I not oblige Jorge and keep this going if he'd like.

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bob builder - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible

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Actually - 2010-06-06 19:30:07

I was attempting to end this Russ but for some unknown reason Jorge wants to keep it going.So why would I oblige him.You on the other hand keep leaving and coming back.You actually titled the subject of one of your threads that you give up but I believe that thread has since been removed.So why do you keep coming back.We know why Jorge doesnt want to let it go but why dont you?

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bob builder - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible

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Bob - 2010-06-06 17:49:48

I seem to remember you getting on my case as well for "trying to always have the last word".
Ha Ha Hee Hee. What a joke.

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Russ Patterson - Stevensville, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Self centered - 2010-06-06 15:26:12

Wow thats pretty funny Jorge.You call me self centered and yet you stated"If you interacted with other people in a normal way (be it on the road, in this forum, face to face, etc...) if you wanted it to be over, you would simply stop engaging in the discussion. This all ties together. It is the inability to look at yourself objectively and how you behave that makes you a danger on the road."You dont know me dude and plus whats really funny is the way you lash out.So tell me If someone cuts you off on the road do you act out the way you do on here?I bet you do.So you know what I'm gonna just keep responding to you negatively just like you do me till Nick finally shuts this thread down.

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bob builder - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible

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Comment removed by HometownAnnapolis staff. - 2010-06-05 19:39:12

Staff message: Why is this comment hidden?

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Grin and Bear It - 2010-06-05 19:36:09

Rob - You are 100% correct that this is exactly what those driving 85 should do. In the real world, however, this is not what they do. Instead, they swerve into the next lane when they think they will be able to move ahead of the slower moving car(s). This is dangerous. Of course they are primarily responsible. That does not change the fact that if the person going 75 were to just move over into the next lane, everybody on the road would be safer. Hopefully, the police (it is their job, not yours or Bob's) will pull them over for speeding and they will be punished appropriately.

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Jorge Garcia - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Gotta laugh - 2010-06-05 16:09:18

Jorge I cant believe your still going on.Did you and the others that keep riding me ever think I just been doing this to see the reaction I'd get.For all you know I could be some student doing a paper on peoples reaction to a simple statement about traffic,could be with law enforcement and looking to see how many people know the traffic laws.I could be with the state highway dept and trying to see what people think of the local traffic.And I may just be one of a group of people that bet on who could get the best reaction from people.If its the latter I think I would win.Even after telling you I was done in my last post Jorge you still harp on my statement.Lets see Rick actually thinks I worry about my karma on here and whether people believe me or not.And Russ attacked my mental status.Yea I think I would have won just because of Russ.Now hopefully Nick will leave this up just to prove my point.Stop taking things so personally people,for all you know I drive in the right lane all the time.Plus this is a newspaper site,can you honestly say people are who they say they are as was my point in the beginning.Nick himself once stated theres no true way on here to prove who someone is.Heck someone even said I was actually Fred Shubbie.So Jorge have a debate with somebody about traffic but if they tell you to let it go then do it.Its the internet for goodness sake.

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bob builder - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible

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Danger ? - 2010-06-05 13:48:40

Has anyone here ever blown a front tire at 85mph ? With all the curves on I-97, one might be wise to heed the speed limit in all lanes !
I do notice one thing, it seems that most speeding is being done by people of higher income brackets who are driving BMWs, Mercedes and Lexus vehicles... just sayin' !

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Dan Carter - North Beach, MD - Karma: Excellent

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OMG Jorge - 2010-06-05 13:32:55

Jorge, I have to chime in, because your last statement defies all logic as i see it.

This statement is factual and contradicts yours....
Need of convenience does not grant authority to unlawfully speed. Lower speeds are proven to be safer in general.

So everyone can keep slinging gratuitous statements around, but the circle is never ending. When you are flying at 85-90 down the left lane and you come upon Bob doing 75 and passing cars, you should just grin and bear it, because no one is wrong in that situation.

Carry on....

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Rob M - Riva, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Bob - Still missing the point - 2010-06-05 07:28:09

The way you drive negatively impacts others on the road. It slows them from reaching their destination and makes their trip more dangerous. For some reason, you refuse to acknowledge this very, very simple fact. It's weird.

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Jorge Garcia - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Neutral

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danger - 2010-06-05 06:38:52

ok, here is one for all. the other day I was going home from work, rt 50 to I 97. as I came to the on ramp to 97 there was an elderly driver at a dead stop with his left turn signal on trying to get onto rt 50 west! what should have happened? 1. traffic stops on rt 50 to let the guy in. 2. police pull the guy off the road and take his license or 3. write the ticket for someone rear ending him because he pulls into the travel lane at 20 mph?

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Pat Bukowski - Odenton, Md - Karma: Neutral

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Suckers! - 2010-06-04 22:02:50

Coming off the 695 spur this evening, around 5:30 pm, I saw loads of Suv's and pickup trucks, as well as the stray, meandering Pria, in the left two lanes. Traffic was thick, and the weather looked bad, so I stayed in the far right lane and accelerated to 85 mph. I got by them all, maybe 50 trucks! Which is good because they were all scared and hesitating and trying to merge into one another, like a bunch of mentally deficient monkeys! But I, in my Honda Coupe Fastback, zipped by them all, the suckers! Haha! See you later, suckers!

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Juan Pablo - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Terrible

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Fantasy - 2010-06-04 21:37:21

Ok Jorge its obvious we both think the other lives in a fanatasy world when it comes to driving and the traffic on Md roads.So why dont you worry about your driving and I'll worry about mine.Like I asked Rick if you don't like what I have to say then why do you keep coming back.

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bob builder - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible

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karma - 2010-06-04 21:33:22

Oh please Rick do you really think I care about my karma.Oh boo hoo my karma's terrible.Like it really matters.I dont think the world will stop spinning.The funny thing is why do you keep coming back?If you believe nothing I say then stop commenting.

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bob builder - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible

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Motorcycles and Croch Rockets - 2010-06-04 19:13:52

Why don't they use these helicopters to start targeting them? Route 97 seems to be filled with these bikers disobeying the rules of the road. I am sick and tired of seeing the overhead signs that warn motorists to "share the road with motorcycles", when these are the ones who are weaving in and out of traffic, speeding, and passing cars by riding on the center line. Anyone who drives on 97 regularly knows how dangerous these riders constantly are. Target those who ride the crotch rockets and motorcycles without regard to the cars and trucks sharing the road with them.

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Brian Armstrong - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Good

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speed - 2010-06-04 12:21:58

just give me the drag strip and 1/4 mile to go 8 seconds and 146mph thats fun. and yes my 8 second car is street legal!

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jim pearson - seaford, de - Karma: Terrible

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Bob - Wrong again - 2010-06-04 11:35:52

I never said it wasn't possible. I said that it doesn't happen very often. That just is not how the road works. Anybody who drives realizes that. The beauty of a forum like this is that you are free to make up any kind of story you want and maintain that it is true. But others who drive on the same roads realize that your description of events simply is not feasible.

You would never try to pass on the right if it were close? If you are going 75 and passing two cars going 65, how many feet do you need in front of the first car to the bumper of the car in the right lane in order for it to not be close? What happens if the car in that right lane slows down by five miles per hour because they get a phone call? Now, you thought you had room, but the gap is closing quickly. How do you decide what to do? Again, these are real world things that happen every day. Your fantasy of people always cutting you off simply doesn't hold water.

Try it this way..... I know you don't like math, but try it anyway.... A car is going 85 in the left lane. You are going 70 in the right lane. They cut in front of you. They are going faster than you so if they don't sideswipe you, there hasn't been an accident. As the lack of accidents is justification for your behavior on the road, why would their behavior bother you? It has the same claimed outcome.....

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Jorge Garcia - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Bob - 2010-06-04 10:22:29

check your Karma, must be a few people around that dont believe what you say.

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Rick M - Laurel, Md - Karma: Excellent

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I Have a Bad Taste ... - 2010-06-04 10:17:57

The Anne Arundel County Police Department and I don't quite see eye to eye these days, Bob. They'll flood the courthouse with every stupid case they possibly can as long as it means they get to flash their badge and "exercise" their enormous power. Blech! I came from an area with a fantastic police force to THIS...and you want to argue the law here? No point in AA Co. buddy! The law is what the guy with the badge says it is...and nothing more.

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Ronda Gray - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Oh Boo Hoo - 2010-06-04 09:33:07

I shed a tear because the non believer Rick is back.Well I guess me saying how bad the drivers were the other day when I was in Laurel wouldnt matter to you.And that was just in the parking lot.

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bob builder - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible

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Jorge - 2010-06-04 09:30:10

Well Jorge if I would have seen a car in the middle lane and thought I couldnt make it I would have stayed in the lane I was in.And you have disagreed with certain things I've said.In a different thread I believe I stated one of the reasons for prefering the left lane.I said that when I used to drive in the right lane I was always getting cut off by people in the left lane waiting till the last minute to get over for their exit.Causing me to brake,you said that was not possible.I cant quite remember how you put it but you disareed with it.

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bob builder - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible

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Bob - 2010-06-04 09:17:04

Thanks for the traffic report. How are we supposed to be anything you say, since you have told falsehoods in other posts?

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Rick M - Laurel, Md - Karma: Excellent

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Bob.... - 2010-06-04 08:22:55

You continue to miss the point. The absence of a negative outcome in a certain case or series of cases does not mean that the activity is not dangerous. Some people have been heroin addicts for decades and haven't died. Your argument would be the same as them waking up each morning and telling everybody 'See, I'm alive, there's nothing wrong with doing heroin, it's perfectly safe'.

And again, nobody said these things aren't possible. I explicitly stated that they are possible. Weird that you would claim otherwise, but so be it.

When you passed those cars on the right, do you think it would have been safer, in the totality, if they had instead not been traveling in the left lane and you had been able to simply maintain your speed and not switch lanes repeatedly? What if somebody had been traveling in the next lane over at a lower rate of speed and you weren't sure if you would be able to get around those two cars in the left lane before reaching that car? Would you have tried?

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My travels - 2010-06-04 08:12:13

Posting early this morning.Well today I was on a 3 lane highway and traffic was a little heavy.Was in the left lane doing 70 and had like 2 cars in front of me and maybe 2 behind me.I was able to see an opening in the middle lane so a safely merged to the middle lane and sped up to about 80 passing 2 cars on my left then merged back over to the left.Continued driving 80 till I caught up with other traffic.Stayed behind them the rest of my trip till I neared my exit and merged over again and took my exit.Oh and I did forget when I merged over to take my exit I could have went a little farther up before merging over but I didnt want to have to cut anyone off.

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NOT! - 2010-06-04 08:04:17

Sorry to say Ronda but you're wrong about that little scenario.I've been in the left lane of several roads and had a cop come up behind me.They simply merge over to the right(even though some say this is impossible)go around and merge back.If the police gave tickets out to people doing the speed limit and called it impedeing traffic the court house would be packed with people fighting the ticket.

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Steven - 2010-06-03 23:55:48

Thanks for relaying your take on the law, however, I'd be willing to bet a car in front of an Anne Arundel County Police officer on 97 doing less than 75 would probably receive a ticket for impeding the traffic....or at least that officers ability to get where he's going...emergency or not! I'm just sayin'!

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Todays travel - 2010-06-03 20:07:55

Well was on a two lane rode today.Traffic was pretty light so I was traveling a little in both lanes for the most part.Was not a bad trip till I was in the right lane and noticed this fool in a big 4x4 flying up on me in the right lane.Well there was a car about two car lengths ahead of me.As we were approaching an exit the fool behind me flew into the left lane,passed me then cut over in front of me and took the exit.So apparently he thought I was gonna also take the exit so decided to get in front of me and exit first.Now of course Jorgy will say this is impossible and Russ will say it was my fault and I should have pulled over on the shoulder instead of just thinking of myself.

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State laws - 2010-06-03 19:14:39

Here we go again.Lizanne please tell us what states has laws that forbid you from driving the posted speed limit in the left lane.

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Comment disabled due to community reporting. - 2010-06-03 13:20:49

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Bob - 2010-06-03 12:48:11

Say you are driving up the left lane going 75. You come upon a car going 65. Just next to that car is another going 65, so you cannot pass. Do you think the individual in front of you is inconsiderate? Is it costing you time out of your day? Would it cost them anything to move over into the right lane? Do you think a long line of cars would collect behind you (and the car in front of you)? Do you think all of those people are being inconvenienced?

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Common Sense - 2010-06-03 12:18:17

I drive a lot and I drive Rt 97 practically every day. Some people are courteous and some people just sail along like they are the only person on the road. Common courtesy (and most states' laws) state to stay right unless passing. If you do that, most of this stuff would not even be an issue...there could be no weaving in and out, because everyone would be in the right lane except while passing. It's simple.

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Comment disabled due to community reporting. - 2010-06-02 21:23:42

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Time for fun - 2010-06-02 19:30:52

Well just for kicks and until Nick shuts it down.I'm gonna post my travel up the road once a day.Today I was going south on 97.Was doing 75 for most of my trip in the left lane.Was about 10 cars ahead of me.We all were going at a good click passing cars in middle lane.The car ahead of the car in front of me merged over to the middle lane with no trouble.Did not cause anyone in middle lane to slam on their breaks.Car ahead of me sped up a little as did I and we caught up with the line of traffic.Continued like this for several more mile till I merged over to take my exit.No issues,no close calls,no sudden stops.Cant wait for tomorrow.

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Fred - 2010-06-02 19:20:34

I am not able to answer your question because when I am in the left lane of any highway I am usually not doing the posted speed limit.Usually I am doing 10-15 over.So I would be doing 75 so please rephrase your question.

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Wrong again - 2010-06-02 19:15:21

Well Russ you are wrong again.I obviously am not a social outcast as you say.Look at the sideshow pics for this article.Check out pic#6.Notice all the cars in the left lane.As for the rude sociopath comment.Sure hope you dont play internet medical doctor for your family.Although just to amuse my self I looked up the word.Some of those symptoms are pretty cool sounding.I would like to know 2 things though.What are the adverse consequences I cause on others by my action of driving in the left lane.And I wonder why Nick is letting you play medical doctor and make assumptions about other posters.Also why dont you see what term to use for people that have to be right and have the last word.And people that feel its their way or the highway.Sound like someone you know Russ.

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So Bob, are you saying... - 2010-06-02 14:24:47

Are you stating that if you were driving up I-97 in the left lane one day at approximately the speed limit and there was a few cars in the right lane matching your pace, and someone came up behind you at approx 75 mph or so, you would make no attempt to find a way to get out of their way or to allow them to pass?

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Comment removed by HometownAnnapolis staff. - 2010-06-02 13:59:53

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Well then - 2010-06-01 19:59:07

Explain it then Russ.I've never had an accident nor have I seen an accident do to me or anyone else being in the left lane.So what else would it have to do with.The only problem I see is that some people cant accept that I will not concede to them just because you waited till the last minute to leave and are in a rush.So please tell me who benefits from me moving over to let the aggresive driver over.

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Bob, - 2010-06-01 19:12:02

It's not just as simple as driving in the left lane. It has to do with the other drivers around you as well and how you drive with them. This is just another facet of what you don't understand.

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Thread - 2010-06-01 18:59:11

Gee Russ I thought this thread was about police cracking down on aggresive drivers on 97.Lets see "Impatient drivers speeding, tailgating, honking, abruptly switching lanes, throwing their arms in the air at someone going the speed limit ahead of them - these are the folks police were looking for, McAndrew said.Yep I was right.But I guess you dont understand that.So here I will write this slowly. Why is driving in the left lane socially unacceptable?

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This kind - 2010-06-01 18:52:25

Jorge asked"What kind of society would we have?"Well Jorge the answer was in my post with the list of vehicles I've seen in the left lane.But as I guessed you ignored that post because you cant accept your wrong.There are all kinds of people driving in the left lane.So since you refuse to accept the norm,lets do this.As I asked before I would be interested in the highway you claim to see a near miss at least once a week.You see I wanna go sit on this highway for 5 minutes and count how many cars are flying up the left lane and see how many near misses there are.Because I think its very interesting you've never shown one accident that has occured do to someone passing on the right,no loss of life,nothing.Your issue is that apparently you dont think people can safely pass on the right,well I see it everyday because I am on the road everyday.Now for some reason you think I drive in the left lane because its legal,guess what dude I would drive in the left lane if it wasnt so get off the legal thing.And as for being the problem of society again I can prove your wrong.Most of my career has been dealing with the public,and I got along great with almost all.The only ones were the people that have to be right all the time and have the last word.Look in the mirror my friend.

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Russ nailed it - 2010-05-31 18:41:49

It is the inability for some to understand the very nature of being a contributor to a happy society that is causing the disagreement. Basing decisions only on what is legal and what makes that one person happier is just not the way considerate people behave. Imagine if everybody made decisions that way. What kind of society would we have?

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Thank You, Rob - 2010-05-31 12:31:32

"I would venture to say there is no law preventing someone from walking up to your table in a restaurant and passing gas in your direction either.
Not having a law against something does not make it socially acceptable to do it."

Slam Dunk

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Bob - 2010-05-30 22:48:22

The fact that you don't understand how something could be socially unacceptable, does not make it acceptable, at least to most discerning individuals. The whole disagreement in this "thread" is based on your not understanding that.

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Say what russ? - 2010-05-30 15:07:53

What the heck kind of comparison is that.Since when is it socially unacceptable to drive in the left lane.I dont recall reading anywhere that it was socially unacceptable.Pretty sure Martha Stewart never said that.We'll put that right next to comparing driving in the left lane to standing in line at the register.But hey let me know what restaurants you frequent and I'll come gas em up for you.

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Bob, - 2010-05-29 19:43:03

I would venture to say there is no law preventing someone from walking up to your table in a restaurant and passing gas in your direction either.
Not having a law against something does not make it socially acceptable to do it.

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Thanks Steven - 2010-05-29 15:19:53

Glad to see someone with true law enforcement to set the rule straight.But even though not all will concede to your input.Certain claim that anyone that cruises in the left lane are spawns of evil,have no respect for society.Oh speaking of that I almost forgot.Jorge I drive quite often,everyday to be exact.So please tell me what highway you see these occurences during your little 13mile commute.I would be very interested in driving this highway to see for myself.

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Rules of the road - 2010-05-29 14:18:36

I am a retired AACo Police Corporal. There is ABSOLUTELY NO LAW that exists in Maryland or in any county in Maryland that says you CAN NOT, SHALL NOT, WILL NOT drive in the left lane. You can drive in the left lane on any highway. As for section 21-303 of the transportation article, that pertains to roadway WITHOUT grass, conrete or a gaurd rail that divides the highway. That also pertains to a roadway in a community that is not marked with signs or paint. Ina community, you must give one half of the roadway up to ONCOMING motorist, IF the roadway is wide enough.

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Bad people - 2010-05-28 21:04:32

So Stephen you and I and anyone else that drives in the left lane are considered bad people.So here is a least of vehicles I've seen in the left lane of a two or more highway in like the last 2-3 weeks.1)police car,2)fire marshall,3)aa county vehicles,4)sheriff,5)ambulance,6)fire truck,7)military vehicles.Wow thats alot of bad people that should know better right Jorge and Rick.What do you think of these people in the left lane.To think are tax dollars going to these bad people.Now I know Rick you wont want to accept this but oh well.And Jorge I really would like to here what you think of the US Military driving in the left lane and not moving out of the way.I dont know about you Stephen but I just might have to stop paying taxes.Then they wont be able to fuel their vehicles and drive in the left lane like that.

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Rick M. - 2010-05-28 19:51:04

Actually Rick again you are wrong.I responded to your assumptions the last time but it got deleted.Then I also responded on how upset I was that you called me out.Again you didnt respond when I boo hooed,but hey I did drive all around Laurel doing the spped limit and confused,lol.I hope you were one of the cars honking.

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Fred is right - 2010-05-28 19:42:19

I think that in light of the factual contribution By Fred Davis this thread has been killed. Clearly the law is in charge of right and wrong when it comes to driving behavior and this ego-driven opinions are moot at best. Thank you Fred for listening to my voice of reason. Ignorance of the law as demonstrated by the 'opinions' stated under this article is responsible for most if not all of the tickets and accidents experienced by the opinionated.

The law is your friend, my friends. Know it, learn it, live it.

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Rick, Sorry That Got Jumbled... - 2010-05-28 16:46:35

No, no, Rick, it was Fred I was referring to there.
I just wanted to address those who had mentioned the accident and let them know more about the cause.
You're right, it's a shame (especially since the man was from Edgewater) that the story wasn't picked up by the local paper.
Such a sad loss of a life, indeed.

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Rhoda - 2010-05-28 14:56:11

I did not say he was drinking, nor did I say anything about his ability to duck or not duck. I think what I said in my post was very factual and nothing was negative.

I think it is a shame that a loss of life occurred.

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Rick M - Laurel, Md - Karma: Excellent

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Rick, Fred, Russ - 2010-05-28 14:16:17

"Police do not believe alcohol was a factor in the crash, which occurred just before 4 p.m. They said a preliminary examination of Joness body by the medical examiner revealed that he might have had a medical emergency that contributed to the crash."
via:
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/crime-scene/matt-zapotosky/man-killed-in-crash-with-tract.html

It seems his ability to "duck" may have been inhibited by a possible medical condition. Let's try to be more objective and entertain the possibility that this mans family could be reading the insensitive comments onsite.

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Ronda Gray - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Excellent

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One last Statute I found... - 2010-05-28 13:27:32

This one could lead someone to conclude drivers must stay to the right:

21-301. (a) On every roadway that is wide enough, a vehicle shall be driven on the right half of the roadway, except:
(1) While overtaking and passing another vehicle going in the same direction...(2) Where there is an obstruction that makes it necessary to drive to the left of the center of the highway, but the driver of any vehicle doing so shall yield the right-of-way to any other vehicle that is traveling in the proper direction on the unobstructed part of the highway...
(b) On every roadway, except while overtaking and passing another vehicle going in the same direction or when preparing for a lawful left turn, any vehicle going 10 miles an hour or more below the applicable maximum speed limit...shall be driven in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway.
(c) (1) On any roadway that is divided into four or more clearly marked lanes for vehicular traffic and that provides for two-way movement of traffic, a vehicle may not be driven on the left of the centerline of the roadway, except:
(i) Where authorized by a traffic control device designating a lane to the left of the center of the roadway for use by traffic not otherwise permitted to use this lane; or
(ii) As permitted under subsection (a)(2) of this section.
(2) This subsection does not prohibit the crossing of the centerline of a roadway while making a left turn into or from an alley or a private road or driveway.

However, I think closer inspection shows it to apply to passing on the left by entering the opposing side of the road.

Here is my source for all of this:
http://law.justia.com/maryland/codes/gtr.html

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Fred Davis - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Crash - 2010-05-28 13:21:29

There are several stories out about this. I also saw it on the news. Truck driver pulled off the side of the road and was climbing out of his truck to investigate an air leak when this car that was reportedly traveling at a high rate of speed made a sudden lane(s) changed and ran under the trailer.
http://www.wusa9.com/rss/local_article.aspx?storyid=101807

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Rick M - Laurel, Md - Karma: Excellent

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Article on Accident says... - 2010-05-28 13:04:22

The driver was killed instantly - I guess he had no time to duck. Truck was stopped on the shoulder of the exit onto MD-197. Car was travelling at a high rate of speed (apparently based on the damage to the car).

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Fred Davis - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Excellent

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However, there was this... - 2010-05-28 12:50:35

Maryland Senate Bill 701 and House Bill 1196.
Entitled:
Vehicle Laws - Overtaking and Passing Vehicles
Synopsis:
Requiring, under specified circumstances and on specified highways that have two or more lanes for traffic moving in the same direction, a vehicle in the far left lane that is being overtaken by another vehicle shall give way to the right in favor of the overtaking vehicle; providing for specified exceptions; etc.

However, it looks like these died in committee and was never enacted.

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Fred Davis - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Save a Horse - 2010-05-28 12:49:03

Fred, very responsible reporting. I feel like a horse on I-97 might impede the traffic flow though....worse, it could kill the horse AND it's rider.
Makes you wonder how often they update the lawbooks, huh?

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Ronda Gray - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Here is the law... - 2010-05-28 12:45:41

With all the back and forth on this "rule", I decided to look up the "Law" - here is what I found:
Maryland Transportation Section 21-303.
(a) Except as otherwise provided in this subtitle, this section governs the overtaking and passing of vehicles going in the same direction.
(b) The driver of a vehicle overtaking another vehicle that is going in the same direction shall pass to the left of the overtaken vehicle at a safe distance.
(c) The driver of a vehicle overtaking another vehicle that is going in the same direction, until safely clear of the overtaken vehicle, may not drive any part of his vehicle directly in front of the overtaken vehicle.
(d) Except when overtaking and passing on the right is permitted, the driver of an overtaken vehicle, on audible signal, shall give way to the right in favor of the overtaking vehicle.
(e) Except when overtaking and passing on the right is permitted, the driver of an overtaken vehicle, until completely passed by the overtaking vehicle, may not increase the speed of his vehicle.

Looks like no such "move right" rule exists, however - according to this one I can ride a horse in the left lane of I-97 in AA County!

21-104. (a) Every person riding an animal or driving an animal-drawn vehicle on a roadway has all the rights granted to and is subject to all the duties required of the driver of a vehicle by this title, except for those provisions of this title that by their very nature cannot apply.
(b) (1) Except in Charles, Worcester, and St. Mary's Counties, or as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, a person may not ride an animal or drive an animal-drawn vehicle on:
(i) Any divided highway where the posted maximum speed limit is more than 35 miles an hour; or
(ii) Any controlled access highway.
(2) In Anne Arundel County, a person may ride an animal on any part of a highway described in paragraph (1) of this subsection, other than on its roadway or shoulder.

LOL! on the Left Laners...

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Fred Davis - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Excellent

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sorry - 2010-05-28 12:43:04

it was just east of 495, in the eastbound lanes, actually it looked like it was possibly on the shoulder or at least on the ramp from NB 495 to EB 50.

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Russ Patterson - Stevensville, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Fred - 2010-05-28 12:38:45

I also saw that truck (btw it was just west of 495 and not near 197 - 402?). Anyway, I got a sick feeling in my stomach when I noticed the back end of the trailer was positioned about where the back window of the car would have been.
We're not likeley to get news of the outcome in this paper, since it was too far west. I only hope the driver had time to duck down. Not likely though, if he or she was wearing a seatbelt.

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Russ Patterson - Stevensville, MD - Karma: Neutral

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The possibilities - 2010-05-28 11:54:42

Bob - If you have not seen the near accidents that occur as speeders weave in and out of traffic, you are not being attentive to others on the road or barely ever drive. In my 13 mile commute, I would guess that I see on average one near miss a week. Just one of those becoming an accident could mean the end of multiple lives. The possibility of that being the result is enough for me to pass in the left lane and move back over to the right. Cars speed by on the left and if I am approaching the car in front of me, I start checking my rearview mirror for a break in the left lane. As it comes up, I move into that lane. Then, when I pass the car or cars that are going slower, I move back over. The chance of an accident from the whole process is very low, either from me or anybody else involved running into somebody. If that car speeding by instead had to pass me on the right and then get back over before reaching the car in the right lane, the chance goes up.

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Jorge Garcia - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Please, Keep Your Problems Off The - 2010-05-28 10:40:38

Fred, I heard about that accident. Very sad. There are a lot of issues on the roads these days. Hopefully these agressive drivers can be caught though. There are rules for a reason.
Just this morning, on my way to work, I watched a "man"...and I use the term loosely here...in a white cadillac speed up the far right lane on Rt. 2 towards Annapolis prior to the South River Bridge in order to be one of the "first" in line. There was an officer stopping a vehicle in the lane on the other side of the bridge so traffic came to a slow down at that point. He then got behind me....in my minivan...and rode my tail until I moved over at Admiral Cochran Drive. He then came up along side of me, rolled down his passenger window, screamed obscenities at me and jerked the steering wheel of his car forcing me into another lane. He could have killed me. he could have killed me two young children too, had they been in the car....thank God they were not.
I don't know what his problem was, was I going THAT slow? Did he have a fight with his wife this morning? Did he think I was someone else? It doesn't really matter. I called him and his partial tag number into the police as he was getting onto the 665 exit towards 97. The officer and the dispatcher were trying to help me catch him, and promised they would do everything they could...running the tag to match the car, putting out a lookout...hopefully they catch him before he kills someone or hurts someone else.
You don't know if the lady in the minivan is trying to get her children safely to school or just driving herself to work. Either way, your car should not be your weapon, it should be your means of transportation.
Don't bring your issues out onto the road, please! I'm really lucky when I changed lanes to avoid him, I didn't hit another car, or flip over, or run into a tree. I was lucky enough to regain control of my van.

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Ronda Gray - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Bob - 2010-05-28 10:35:35

Just like you never confused you were wrong, when you claim the cops were laughing about the comments in the Capital about left lane drivers.

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Rick M - Laurel, Md - Karma: Excellent

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HUH - 2010-05-28 10:29:58

"Not think...is - 2010-05-26 20:53:15

The left lane IS the passing lane. IS NOT THINK. Admit when you are wrong. You ARE wrong. It IS the passing lane.

YOU ARE WRONG. MOVE OVER.

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casey hean - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Neutral"
What exactly were you trying to say here Casey.Maybe you should proof read before posting.But if your trying to say the left lane is for passing please show us where it states this.And please dont tell us the Md. drivers handbook.As for Jorge I have to say I'm shocked you agreed with something I stated.But I have to tell you I have not experienced or saw this almost cliiping someone because of me being in the left lane.Nor have I had that issue when coming up on someone in the left lane.Yes there are idiots out there that dont care but if your careful you can easily go around someone eventually.You just need to be patient.The only time you truly experience a problem would be if theres a traffic jam do to an incident somewhere such as that truck fire a week ago on 97.

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bob builder - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible

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So, who is to blame?... - 2010-05-28 10:00:37

After reading through some of the more colorful comments on this article, I was reminded of a scene I witnessed Wednesday as I was returning to Annapolis on RT 50 near the exit for 197. A car (I could not make out the type) had wedged itself under the rear of a tractor-trailer. The car must have been traveling at an excessive speed, because it was wedged up to the point that the front seats were clearly under the dock-lock bar on the back of the trailer - I would have to doubt the driver or any passengers in the front seat survived.
I guess it would be safe to assume that driver was of the mind that he should be allowed to go any speed he wanted and people should get out of his way - eh?

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Fred Davis - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Paintball guns on cars? - 2010-05-28 07:48:59

Actually Stephen, I kind of like that idea. Just think, if they use Rustoleum, the back end of your vehicle will never rust out!

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Russ Patterson - Stevensville, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Stephen - 2010-05-27 23:39:26

In another story about the Blue Angels you were concerned about the waste of money. If you would get out of the way and let the speed demons pass you, and they in turn get a ticket, the cost for their ticket will be much higher because of the higher speed they get caught at. If you stay in the left lane and get a ticket for doing ten over the limit, you are shortchanging the state's revenue. Maybe a level lower than Terrible could be "Cheapskate".

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Russ Patterson - Stevensville, MD - Karma: Neutral

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LOL - 2010-05-27 23:30:25

My typing skills, however, have suffered. It's KARMA!

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Russ Patterson - Stevensville, MD - Karma: Neutral

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LOL - 2010-05-27 23:24:23

My typing skills, however, have suffered. It's KARMA!

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Russ Patterson - Stevensville, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Thank You Stephen and Bob - 2010-05-27 23:22:36

Before I started disagreeing with you two, my Karnma was Neutral.

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Russ Patterson - Stevensville, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Just like NASCAR - 2010-05-27 21:42:47

Before you get freaked out by 97, go up and down 70 a couple times. It's awesome. I was on it today, keeping pace with the traffic in the left lane, and we were all doing 85, keeping a nice separation. I got into the right lane because I thought I saw a break ahead. I was wrong, but too late. The whole field in the left lane boomed past me while I was stuck behind a Prius. It was awesome, just like Nascar! But after I got in behind them on the passing lane, I worked my way back up, and won. And when we slowed down to 70, it felt like 30. So go drive on 70, and it'll steel your nerves for the chicken%$#^ on 97.

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Juan Pablo - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Terrible

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Perfect - 2010-05-27 17:44:10

My friends, I am a great driver. I remain calm at all times. Anger and frustration can only lead to an early death. I can't imagine why you people are arguing over the rules of the road. They are clear ! We are all responsible for our own tickets and accidents and that is that !!

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Downtown JamesBrown - annapolis, md - Karma: Neutral

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Downtown james - 2010-05-27 15:32:08

Never heard of a perfect driver before. Give it some time most of us have had a fender bender or two. So many cars so little room.

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Anthony Forrest - crownsville, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Jorge and DQ - 2010-05-27 14:58:07

Jorge, actually, that is the only thing that you've said that made any sense. That would be an interesting topic to do a piece on. It won't change anyone's mind, mine included, but it would be a good read.

DQ, I'm with you on the vigilante-ism. Heck, I think we should adopt a "Mad Max" mentality and affix paintball and water guns to our cars to shoot at each other. People just ignore horns anymore.

Like the old adage goes: You can't please everyone. So don't try. Just be yourself and have the mindset of "agree with me or not, just respect my opinion as I do yours." Do that with a dash of sarcasm and then you have my mindset ;o)

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Stephen Yats - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Terrible

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Karma, Schmarma! - 2010-05-27 14:47:08

Alas, Stephen, my Karma took a hit last week. It appears there are no fans of vigilante justic either. They don't like cops, they don't like rule breakers and now they don't like vigilantes....I don't know how to please these people!!!

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Ronda Gray - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Hey DQ - 2010-05-27 14:36:47

You better be careful with the praise for Jorge, Bob, and myself or else your Karma is going to take a hit. I don't want an innocent bystander who sees the humor in the debate getting a "Bad" or "Terrible" rating by association!

Oh, I've tried countless times for the "agree to disagree" angle, but it falls on deaf ears and I get asked the grocery line question again.

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Stephen Yats - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Terrible

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An Idea - 2010-05-27 14:32:27

This topic apparently garners great interest given the number of responses. I think it would be great if the Capital put together an article on the matter, interviewing law enforcement, transportation consultants, engineers, and whoever else may be able to chime in with competent, meaningful information. The sides here have clearly stated their reasons for believing what they do (I am the only one that matters as compared to the safety and happiness of all those on the road being what matters), so I think some expert opinions would be well received.

Plus, it would add a new angle to citizen journalism, where reader comments are used not as an end, but as a means to determine what topics readers find more interesting than others.

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Jorge Garcia - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Drama Queen - 2010-05-27 14:09:40

Stephen, I still think you, Jorge and Bob the Builder need a column of your own...pure entertainment with the three of you! The way I see it, there just needs to be a sense of "agree to disagree". I value your opinion, Stephen, even if I don't agree with it. I enjoy the banter. Call me Drama Queen....I love the discussion.

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Ronda Gray - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Re: Karma - 2010-05-27 14:00:46

Well the way I'm going, I'll be banned in no time. I get thumbs down ratings even when I do agree with people.

(I'm sure that this posting will get at least 3 thumbs down votes.)

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Stephen Yats - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Terrible

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Rick - 2010-05-27 13:16:46

I've only been here for a couple of weeks so I don't know of whom you speak.

If this other person should get "Atrocious", how about "Dreadful", "Appalling", "Ghastly" or "Vile" then?

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Stephen Yats - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Terrible

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Stephen - 2010-05-27 13:09:15

I believe the title of "Atrocious" belongs to the troll that left, but keeps coming back under with new names.

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Rick M - Laurel, Md - Karma: Excellent

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I'm from PA - 2010-05-27 12:51:24

Hey Ronda,

That was funny! Unfortunately, it has zero credibility as it's not rated on actual figures, rather its results are calculated based on answers to a survey of only 5,200 drivers. But I'm sure Jorge and Russ will take it as conclusive proof that PA drivers are worse than MD drivers.

By the way, if it was for all states and DC, shouldn't the list go from 1-51? Looks like they forgot a state.

Hey Nick? I think we need a new Karma level because Bob Builder and I are way beyond "Terrible". Can you have the webmaster create one called "Atrocious"?

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Stephen Yats - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Terrible

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Perfect Driver - 2010-05-27 12:49:49

No accidents and no tickets does not make you a perfect driver. It makes you a very lucky driver. My mom-in-law has neither, and shes not exactly the best driver on the road. But, if you dont drive often or far, and only if the weather is perfect. Then that reduces your chances of being in an accident. Now, on the other hand, if you are a professional driver (cop, cab, bus, truck, etc) and you are on the road 8 hours a day, and can say you haven't had an accident. Then, yes, you are doing pretty darn good.

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Rick M - Laurel, Md - Karma: Excellent

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Worst Drivers in America - 2010-05-27 12:38:38

I forget when we started all posting together who it was that was from PA...but this article is for you....in good fun.

It lists the 50 states, plus DC and lists them in order of the WORST to BEST drivers in America. PA is #13.....MD is #32. I;'m just sayin'....

http://www.walletpop.com/blog/2010/05/27/worst-drivers-in-america-by-state/

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Ronda Gray - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Huh? - 2010-05-27 12:02:06

Downtown JamesBrown? Devastation of the ATLANTIC? Last time I checked, it happened in the Gulf of Mexico...which is a different body of water. Nice try though!

Nope, Jorge and Russ, I'll continue to drive in the left lane and be a menace to other motorists. I like my newly attained status as being the root of all evil on the road and a detriment to society.

That's something that's been bugging me about down here. Wide load semis don't need a police escort, just a chase vehicle. Then again, it really shouldn't surprise me. Driver safety is LOW on the list at the MD Dept of Transportation.

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Stephen Yats - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Terrible

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Only one correct way - 2010-05-27 11:02:34

I can't believe you people feel so passionate about something that is controlled by the law. Follow the law and you, like me, will never be wrong. I am a perfect driver, I have Zero points and have never been in a accident. No one but the laws can tell me if I am driving right, and if you are so passionate about this driving stuff you obviously have had more than a few tickets and more than a few accident. Could not you people find something else to be passionate about? like the devastation of our great atlantic caused by the negligence of a multi-BILLION dollars oil monster, BP.

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Downtown JamesBrown - annapolis, md - Karma: Neutral

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Jorge - 2010-05-27 07:46:24

This is really a dead horse. We have been beating this topic for too long. There are two sides to this debate, and both sides feel very strongly that they are right and the other side are morons and idiots.

Time to put this thing to bed and wait for the next battle. :-)

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Rick M - Laurel, Md - Karma: Excellent

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Again... Again.... - 2010-05-27 07:05:50

Yes, the aggressive driver is the primary cause of the problem. But if you were to not travel in the left lane (and admit that you are not so important that you have some kind of title to the left lane), the risk of actual harm would be reduced. You can wax poetic about moral or legal superiority, but the issue on the roads should always be safety. You have an opportunity to create a safer roadway for everybody. You refuse to do so. In the end, you and the guy barreling down the left lane are using exactly the same mindset.

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Jorge Garcia - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Good Job - 2010-05-27 01:38:32

I had wondered why thatcopter was flying so low. Thank you police trying to save some lives. Friday night through Sunday night the motorcycles use the stretch from 301 to 50 as a drag strip. I hope you catch some of them also. Again Thanks.

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Anthony Forrest - crownsville, MD - Karma: Excellent

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This is about Aggression - 2010-05-26 23:06:29

I was tailgated yesterday by a semi with Ohio tags carrying roof trusses. The truck bore a wide load banner with the trusses extended 4 to 5 feet beyond the flat bad of the truck on the right side. It was followed by a green jeep cherokee with flashing lights. This semi was in the left lane, forcing cars off the road in the right lane, attempting to weave in and out of traffic. I watched the truck approach in my rear view mirror and moved to the right lane as soon as possible to avoid having my rear bumper removed. Let's remember that the problem being addressed in this article is aggression . . . the type that endangers other drivers on the road.

Regardless of the speed of other drivers, the person who deliberately behaves in an aggressive manner is at fault. Get over yourself if someone is driving too slow, not moving out of your way. Seriously, you're just not that important.

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K F - Severna Park, MD - Karma: Good

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Again..... - 2010-05-26 21:46:21

People will speed. People will do all kinds of stupid things in life. To say that one should do things that cost absolutely nothing that will minimize the possible harm to others is terrible in my opinion. It's no different than letting your kid sell drugs out of your house because if he doesn't, the buyers will just get the drugs from somewhere else. The lack of concern for the safety of others is quite disturbing.


Bob - Of course your hypothetical is possible. It happens every day. What also happens is that it isn't quite clear if it is 'safe' to pass. So some people will try. As they near the car in the second to left lane, the gap to get back closes. They may accelerate to try to squeeze in. As the gap gets really tight, they speed up more and turn at a sharper angle to get back in. They might misjudge and hit the car in front of them. They might realize at the last second that the guy in the left lane has now sped up to really 'get the speeder' and now has to swerve back into the right lane, possibly overcompensating and heading into the right lane, or fishtailing. He may slam on the brakes, and somebody pulling into the center lane from the right lane now has to correct, creating a whole new set of possibilities.

This is the point. Of course nothing might happen. But the chance also exists that something terrible could happen. If you would just not stay in the left lane if you aren't passing, that risk goes down. Will you feel better about yourself if the above happens and some kids die? Because you were obeying the law while the other guy was speeding?

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Jorge Garcia - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Not think...is - 2010-05-26 20:53:15

The left lane IS the passing lane. IS NOT THINK. Admit when you are wrong. You ARE wrong. It IS the passing lane.

YOU ARE WRONG. MOVE OVER.

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casey hean - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Ticket - 2010-05-26 20:10:01

But at least if I get a ticket its for the right reason,speeding.Not because I'm in the left lane which some seem to think is a passing lane only.And not because I was impedeing traffic because because I wont move over as some have stated.

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bob builder - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible

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commen sense - 2010-05-26 19:41:27

If the person behind you in the left lane wants to go faster than you, then by all means, let them. Get out of their way for a moment. Later on you might pass them as they are getting a ticket on the side of the road.
However, if you are in the first car in a long line of cars doing ten over the speed limit, and a trooper decides it's time to enforce the speed limit, guess who has the best chance of getting a ticket then?

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Russ Patterson - Stevensville, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Two things - 2010-05-26 18:16:27

Route 50 to I-695 @ 65 m.p.h. = 15.5 minutes

Route 50 to I-695 @ 85 m.p.h. = 11.8 minutes

Ok what does this have to do with what lane I drive in.If I know it takes 20 minutes to get where I'm going under normal conditions I leave 30 minutes early to be safe.So to the ones that want me to move so they can get to their destination quicker,maybe you shouldnt wait till the last minute.Another person asctually said by moving over it might help someone get home a little sooner.What if I wanna get home sooner?Now I know one person on here that will say this isnt true and never happens.I've drove in the left lane at 75 plenty of times.Came up on someone not going quite as fast,if I saw that there was no one ahead of person.Looked in right side mirror,glanced over right shoulder(took 2-3 seconds)moved over if safe,went passed said driver.Looked in left side mirror,glanced back over left shoulder(again 2-3 seconds)moved back to left lane and continued on.Anybody can do this people.So come on and say no thats not possible.I'm waiting.You know who you are.

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bob builder - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible

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Who? - 2010-05-26 17:19:50

I'm sorry, Rob...what were you saying?

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Stringer Bell - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Bad

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heh - 2010-05-26 16:35:48

C Mac-couldn't have said it any better

Jorge--um yes, it is simpler- Obey the speed limit.

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Rob M - Riva, MD - Karma: Excellent

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arrogance - 2010-05-26 16:32:52

Arrogance is standing your ground for the sake of doing it. Most people agree with their high school driving ed teacher: the left lane is for passing, the right for cruising. You roadblocks on wheels will always be there just like mosqui'os. It's not going to stop me or anyone else from behaving like a civilized human being and going on about my business. So drag your knuckles and stand your ground; you are king of the left lane. Congrats!

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Stringer Bell - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Bad

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It's all about safety - 2010-05-26 16:11:27

A car going at a high rate of speed is more dangerous if it is moving in and out of lanes. That is a fact of life. People driving at those high rates of speed are not going to slow down because you are in the way. They will instead weave in and out of traffic. They are wrong. Because they are wrong in no way removes the responsibility that you all should feel to make the roads safer for others.

If you are not passing, just move into the next lane. It isn't hard. It makes life better for everybody else. It costs you nothing.

It is not about 'yielding' to anybody. Just don't travel in the left lane. Then, when that car comes up behind you, you don't have to 'yield' since you aren't in the lane to begin with. If you are in the lane because you are passing, you would be getting back over anyway once you passed the car on your right. Couldn't be any simpler.

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Jorge Garcia - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Making a point - 2010-05-26 15:50:36

I am so glad you freaks are using a three to four thousand pound battering ram on wheels to determine how fast or slow the person behind you drives.

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Nicholas Munz - Severna Park, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Comment removed by HometownAnnapolis staff. - 2010-05-26 15:46:13

Staff message: Why is this comment hidden?

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Happy Wednesday! - 2010-05-26 12:38:26

Eh, let them blow a gasket, Matt! It only hurts them, not us.

According to the general consensus, Rob, yes you (and I) are wrong to not yield to the faster car behind you. Honestly, they can change lanes just as easily as I can so I'll stay put in the left lane.

Hey Al? I do that. Why am I going to sit still in traffic when there's an open lane next to me? And, sorry to say, that's not an illegal move. It IS a legal lane and it's not reserved just for new cars merging to the highway. When on 50, I love getting off at Aris T Allen, pass the traffic, and merge back onto 50 before the Parole exit. If I miss the ATA exit, then the Parole exit lane works in a pinch.

Steve, so what was the result of you in traffic court? Unfortunately, that little blurb from the judge isn't going to stop people from emulating Dale Earnhardt, Sr.

Fred, didn't George Carlin say that?

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Stephen Yats - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Terrible

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Ever noticed... - 2010-05-26 11:10:47

I am a frequent flyer on I-97 - typically a left lane driver in the 75-85 range (generally slightly faster than most traffic) that will pull over for faster traffic when it is convenient for me (IE: if by pulling over I will have to get out of cruise control mode and slow down, you will have to wait for me to pass the vehicle in the right lane).

That being said and after reading the article and associated comments, I'd like to ask: have you ever come to the realization that anyone driving faster than you is a fool and a knucklehead, and anyone driving slower than you is an idiot and a moron? At least that is the way it sounds around here.

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Fred Davis - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Revenue - 2010-05-26 07:34:47

Just wondering what people have against the police generating revenue by ticketing people breaking the law. I have a ticket pending now, I have no problem with paying whatever the judge says, I was in the wrong!

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Matt B - Deale, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Speed Limit - 2010-05-26 03:58:48

The speed limit is 65 on I-97? Gee I always thought that sign meant 97 was the Speed Limit. Also, get out of my way if you don't want to speed in the LEFT LANE which is for PASSING, or I'll just pass you on the shoulder and smile as you look at me with your mouth open. You aren't the police, and I will take the risk because speeding on an OPEN HIGHWAY with an UNDERPOSTED speed limit with light traffic is completely fine. If the state police were to print out statistics of deaths related to SPEED and only SPEED on I-97 you would be shocked to see it would be less then 5%. That's right, 5%. Speeding and TEXTING while driving, reading a book while driving, doing your hair while driving...CAUSE THE ACCIDENTS!!! I-97 is the safest Interstate in Maryland...hands down. This enforcement was all about revenue generation people. Wake up and smell the coffee.

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John Smith - Baltimore, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Just In Case - 2010-05-26 00:24:56

Anybody cares to know this I was in traffic court recently (not for a speeding violation) but I heard the judge telling the defendant "75mph or faster is against the law on Any Maryland Highway".

You might want to think twice about your NASCAR aspirations.

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Steve Gundersen - Annapolis, Md - Karma: Terrible

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97 - 2010-05-25 23:21:35

Ok, I've got a few things to add. One is that it may be an ordanince/law to drive in the right and pass in the left lane but when was that law made? I'm betting WAY before the volume of traffic we see every day on MD roads and definetly before rte 97. Second, why is it that most people when walking say "sorry or excuse me" if they were to accidentally bump into another person but get that same person behind a wheel of a car or truck and they think its there God given right to go first, speed, change lanes without signals and cut off other drivers. My favorite aggresive driving trick is when someone is in traffic, doesn't even have to be very slow or stopped traffic, in the right lane they then move over to the right into an exit lane driving past the rest of the traffic and then slows down to get back in the right hand lane. I wish SOO much that there was a way the police could see them get out of line, drive like a bat outta h--- then get back over. Seeing some one pulled over for that would make my week! I hate when people think they are better than everyone else and is above having to follow the rules. Lastly I don't drive 65 in the fast left lane and I do speed some but it makes me so mad when I see people driving like they own the road. Yes you own that vehicle (hopefully) but you do not own the road, the person you just cut off is just that a PERSON. That was not another car in your way like in a video game. You didn't get any points for passing him/her and NOBODY is impressed at how hard you can push down on the accelerator peddle. I guess all that is left to say is...Happy Motoring and thanks to the police who do get some of the aggressive drivers on our roads.

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Al Saunders - Brooklyn Park, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Hey Stringer - 2010-05-25 22:16:51

I like to drive 75-80 and pass everyone in the right lane. If you want to drive 85-90 am I wrong to stay in the left lane?

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Rob M - Riva, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Rhonda - 2010-05-25 16:21:07

I have a friend here at work that does the same thing, not sure why though, it is a legal lane to travel in. If they are taking the shoulder, then I can see your point, but remember, you don't need to let them in front of you. They really should carry that lane all the way down to the light and fix that intersection, it is a perfect place for a traffic circle, espcecially for those coming out of the Mayo area, what a nightmare that is.
And Stephen, it is nice to know we're the root of all evil, just hope we don't cause anyone to blow a gasket!!

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Matt B - Deale, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Comment removed by HometownAnnapolis staff. - 2010-05-25 16:17:33

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Bad person? - 2010-05-25 16:07:31

I think the term is Vigilante, Stringer. I don't think this makes him/ her a bad person. You'd probably REALLY hate me! I'm the gal who straddles the lanes as they merge on 214 prior to Muddy Creek Rd. so the "folks" can't drive all the way up and cut me off making the line to get home longer when I waited patiently in that same line to get home as well. Pardon the run-on sentence, I'm "passionate" about that one.
Call it vigilanteism at it's worst if you prefer, I call it justice.

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Ronda Gray - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Ronda, Matt, and Stringer - 2010-05-25 16:03:37

I'm glad that you get enjoyment out of our banter, even though you don't always agree with one or all's opinion.

Hmm, would the column's name be: "Grinds Our Gears"?

Matt, isn't it nice to know that we're the root of all evil on the roads?

Stringer, nah, they should keep their licenses. Think of them as gates on a slalom course.

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Stephen Yats - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Terrible

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65? - 2010-05-25 15:54:22

Nobody drives 65 on 97. EVER. Put the real back into your life. Try it..you will feel so much better, I promise.

Get out of the left lane. If I want to drive over the speed limit to get around you then that is my business. You are not the police and it is not your job to block the lane that everyone universally understands is for passing.

If you do this then you are the one in the wrong. You are a very bad person who nobody should ever emulate. You and your grandmother should have your licenses revoked for ruining an otherwise enjoyable activity: driving.

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Stringer Bell - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Bad

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Same players! - 2010-05-25 15:48:59

Quick! Somebody give Bob, Steven and Jorge an opinion column! This is good stuff! lol....you guys are insatiable. I don't always agree with you, but it's definitely good entertainment.

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Matt and Nick - 2010-05-25 15:17:42

Matt - appreciate the additional fidelity on how you drive and yield in the left lane - sounds reasonable to me and quite similar to my approach/style. Sorry about your ticket and thank you for the dialogue today.

Nick - new to this although have thought about commenting previously on Capital articles - this one struck a nerve as I drive 97 daily and have experienced the frustration of being stuck in a line of cars behind someone doing 65 (or less) in the left lane and had people tailgate me when I'm doing 75 in the left lane while passing other vehcles. Thanks for monitoring what has been a positive experience.

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Charlie Lnu - Crownsville, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Fred - 2010-05-25 14:47:15

Don't you know it is the law abiding citizen that causes them to drive agressively and we should show them the respect and courtesy they deserve and make sure the lane is clear for them. After all, we are law abiding citizens, we are a detriment to society and all that is wrong with the country today.

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Matt B - Deale, MD - Karma: Excellent

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General Use - 2010-05-25 14:35:54

My use of the word "Idiot" is not directed at any individual. I mean it in general.

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Fred Bralman - Arnold, Md - Karma: Neutral

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Idiot! - 2010-05-25 14:31:41

References to "Driving like someones grandmohter"...just illustrates what kind of mental midgets can get a license in Maryland! Clueless to the fact that "Someones grandmother" might actually be driving. Traffic laws are established by taking into account that people of different ages and levels of skill are using our highways. Someones Grandmother or someone who drives like her has just as much right to drive, and has the right to expect to be safe as everyone else. Think of your own relatives who might be a little older and still driving. Do you think it's fair that they should nearly be run off the road just because they aren't driving fast enough to accomodate some stupid pin-head who thinks he or she is so much better than everyone else?

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Fred Bralman - Arnold, Md - Karma: Neutral

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Quick! Get the antifreeze mixture! - 2010-05-25 14:23:58

You said it was starting to overheat...

Sorry if your keyword detector found the word "moron" when you checked this thread, Nick. I wasn't calling another commenter a "moron", rather, daredevil superbike riders.

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Stephen Yats - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Terrible

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Dense! - 2010-05-25 14:14:09

85 IS NOT a perfectly reasonable speed when the posted speed limit is 65! When one decides to drive 20mph over the posted speed limit, that is a hazard that endangers the lives of the majority of people who choose to be safe! Add the tailgating and reckless lane changing that usually comes along with the basic disregard for safety and you have reckless driving. I've had one family member killed through no fault of his own and 2 vehicles destroyed in accidents that were both caused by exactly this kind of driving! If the sign says 65...you don't have a right to drive 85. If you're too stupid to figure out why then you shouldn't be allowed behind the wheel at all.

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Jorge - 2010-05-25 14:04:28

Your correct, some don't care about others, they just want to blow up the road as fast as they want and just want everyone to clear out of their way, no matter who they may kill in the process.

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Matt B - Deale, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Matt and Jorge - 2010-05-25 14:02:03

Jorge! It's so good to see you! Are you going to ask Matt the grocery line question too? Thank you for thinking that I'm a detriment to society. I'll be reveling in that as I'm driving along in the left lane on 50 East after work.

Matt, I actually read an article (Yahoo, I think) where research was done about drivers and the speed they choose to drive. What they found is interesting: the majority of people will drive 70 mph regardless of the posted speed limit as that is the speed they are most comfortable with. Since reading that, I've noticed that there are a lot of people that drive 70. And, honestly, I've found myself doing it at times too.

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Stephen Yats - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Terrible

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Same old argument - 2010-05-25 13:50:13

There are two sides. One says 'I am obeying the law, so I can do whatever I want, particularly that which benefits me with no concern for the impact on others'. The other says 'In cases where one obeys the law but can take another lawful action to increase safety and happiness for all involved, that other lawful action should be taken'.

There is nothing more to it than that. It doesn't have to just apply to this topic, it is the kind of thinking that makes its way into any number of decisions that people make during the day. Some don't care about others but instead only want to do whatever benefits them (often seemingly getting more pleasure out of it when it does in fact inconvenience somebody else). That is certainly their right, but it is detrimental to society as a whole.

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Stephen - 2010-05-25 13:46:28

Yep, I had this same argument about 6 months ago here, with the same results. Problem is, I was one of those drivers, still am sometimes, so they're preaching to the coir. Thing is, I realized if I drop my speed 5mph, I was going the same speed as 90% of the cars and I didn't have to weave in and out of traffic, makes for a much nicer day. I also know that its not the car in front making me agressive, it was myself. Hopefully it won't take any unfortanate event for them to want to change their driving habits, but noone else can do it for them.

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Matt B - Deale, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Whoa... - 2010-05-25 13:29:34

I'm getting flashbacks of my arguments with Jorge...

Matt, don't bother trying to answer Charlie's posts. Like my arguments in another article, you're automatically wrong and his rationale will just get progressively more ridiculous.

But I do agree with you 100%, Matt. I drive in the left lane 10 mph over the speed limit on most roads in total bliss. If someone is going faster behind me, they're perfectly capable of changing lanes to pass.

Don't get me started on the motorcycles. Those things are a menace. They're not happy to ride in the HOV lane practically unimpeded, so they need to create their own lanes in between traffic. And, let's not forget the crotch rocket morons who think people are impressed they're doing a wheelie at 100 mph. For them, I just smile and think that one day theyll hit that little rut in the road and catapult themselves off of their bike.

What are you talking about? The NJ Turnpike is fun! As is the AC Expressway!

David Blacke, I can't agree with you more about the "tuners". I'm often challenged to a race with these guys, or any teenager in daddy's car, whenever I'm driving around in my antique Mustang. Like you, I don't bother. Not only because I know I can take them easily, but also because my car doesn't stop on a dime (doesn't have the disc conversion).

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Charlie - 2010-05-25 13:20:00

that is exactly what I mean, in fact, I'm waiting on a court date now on a speeding ticket. As far as common courtesy, I'll afford them the same as they do me. If I'm in a line of traffic (rush hour)all doing 75 and someone comes up on my rear doing 85 and tailgates me, he can work his way by, we are all doing the same speed and usually passing those to the right of us. If however, the road is somewhat clear and I'm doing 75 and see a car gaining on me, if it is clear, I will move to the right, if its not clear, they can wait until it is, then I'll move over. If they tailgate me, they can then find their own way around. Courtesy is a 2 way street. I've been tailgated going down a one lane road with no shoulders with cars in front of me, and speeding, what do you want me to do in that situation?

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Matt B - Deale, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Matt - 2010-05-25 13:01:13

Do you mean like ticketing you when you are doing 70 in a 65 (as stated in your earlier message)?

It is clear you believe it is your right to drive in the left lane and not yield right of way to those behind you. I believe such behavior contributes to aggressive driving (which I in no way condone) situations I witness daily.

In fact, I saw someone get pulled over last week because they passed on the shoulder after someone in the left lane refused to yield and then sped up each time the person tried to pass on the right.

Very few people drive the speed limit which is why the police (generally) allow a window of 5-10MPH over the limit. Yielding the right of way is a courtesy issue which assists with traffic flow - failure to do impedes traffic and contributes to aggressive driving.

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Charlie Lnu - Crownsville, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Charlie - 2010-05-25 12:14:16

It's been a while since I've taken the driver's course, but I do think the Maryland Driver's Handbook does state that driving the posted speed limit was the law, maybe the police should start enforcing that.

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Matt B - Deale, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Follow-Up - 2010-05-25 12:04:11

Okay, so it is not a law to fail to move out of the left lane (unless doing 10MPH less than the speed limit because then you may be cited for impeding traffic). In the Maryland Driver's Handbook it does state slower vehicles should keep to the right and the left lane should be used for passing another vehicle or making a left hand turn.

Of course "should" is not "must" so I'll retract my earlier request to local law enforcement to cite those who fail to yield the left lane. My earlier statement concerning these types of actions contributing to aggressive driving situations still stands - especially when recommended State guidance is blatantly ignored.

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Charlie Lnu - Crownsville, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Sally - 2010-05-25 12:01:40

Because I don't want another knock on my door to tell me another family member has been killed by an agressive driver. Thanks for your concern though.

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Matt B - Deale, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Bob and Nick - 2010-05-25 11:19:18

Should I even comment?

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Agreeing with Pat - 2010-05-25 11:16:08

This is nothing but a revenue grab by politicians ready to line their pockets. These are your tax dollars. You live in an area with one of the highest crime rates in the country. Why would you let your tax dollars be spent in this manner when the murder rate, homicide rate, rape and domestic violence rate continue to spiral out of control?

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saves time? - 2010-05-25 11:07:39

Route 50 to I-695 @ 65 m.p.h. = 15.5 minutes

Route 50 to I-695 @ 85 m.p.h. = 11.8 minutes

You save 3.7 minutes

Law enforcement will disagree, but the safest speed is that at which most of the traffic is traveling at.

If traffic is flowing at 75 m.p.h. and you are doing 65 m.p.h in the left lane and backing up traffic behind you, you are the most dangerous driver on the road.

If traffic is heavy and flowing at 60 m.p.h. and you insist on trying to drive 75 m.p.h. then you are the most dangerous driver on the road.

"Everyone that drives slower than you is a moron. And everyone that drives faster than you is an a**hole." - George Carlin

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Tyler Durden - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Excellent

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I stand corrected - 2010-05-25 10:41:28

After doing some quick research I found that in MD, it is legal for you to be complete a**hole and cruise in the left lane.

Enjoy your miserable life as an a**hole who causes accidents and stands his ground. You are everything that is wrong with this country and I hope you are the victim of tickle torture to the point of involuntary urination.

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saves time? - 2010-05-25 10:39:55

Route 50 to I-695 @ 65 m.p.h. = 15.5 minutes

Route 50 to I-695 @ 85 m.p.h. = 11.8 minutes

You save 3.7 minutes

Law enforcement will disagree, but the safest speed is that at which most of the traffic is traveling at.

If traffic is flowing at 75 m.p.h. and you are doing 65 m.p.h in the left lane and backing up traffic behind you, you are the most dangerous driver on the road.

If traffic is heavy and flowing at 60 m.p.h. and you insist on trying to drive 75 m.p.h. then you are the most dangerous driver on the road.

"Everyone that drives slower than you is a moron. And everyone that drives faster than you is an a**hole." - George Carlin

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Left lane - 2010-05-25 10:28:38

there is no law that states the left lane is for passing only, in Maryland, you are allowed to drive in the left lane all you want. Do the speed limit and all will be fine. This is not the autobaun and the speed limit is not 85. Those doing 70 in the left shouldn't have to move over for those doing 75, it only makes them have to switch back and forth when they get to someone doing the speed limit in the right lane. Work your way around, just like you want the cars doing anything less than what you feel the speed limit should be. Have a nice day and drive carefully.

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Matt B - Deale, MD - Karma: Excellent

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right lane..... - 2010-05-25 09:56:48

Stringer Bell is right. Just move over and let the faster car by. Is that so hard ? I see people in the left lane holding up traffic so they can talk on their cell phone and have no traffic in front of them to watch for. Ticket them. They'll learn to move over. Stringer Bell for Governor.

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Perfectly Reasonable - 2010-05-25 09:51:25

PS-85 MPH is a perfectly reasonable speed on the open highway. Many highways in this country have the speed limit set to just that. Are you saying that your brian is incapable of operating at that speed or that you are just incapable of keeping up and thinking about more than one thing at a time?

If you would just move over, there wouldn't be a problem.

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The answer is obvious - 2010-05-25 09:43:37

From reading this thread is is apparent that there are two vastly different schools of though on this. What the slow brained, law abiding, whiners don't realize is that if you just obeyed the law and moved to the right; the problem would be solved.

You drive like a grandmother and it's disruptive to the flow of the quick. MOVE OVER!

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Stringer Bell - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Bad

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Passing Lane - 2010-05-25 09:08:40

If you're driving at a speed that's "reasonable and prudent" then what do you need a passing lane law for? People are flying up and down that road at 85mph, bearing down on other people who are driving safely! If you feel the need to drive so fast then find a racetrack somewhere and have at it. Grow up and stop endangering the lives of everyone else. Two airplane loads of people die needlessly every year in Maryland on the roads. Where is the outrage?

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Fred Bralman - Arnold, Md - Karma: Neutral

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Pretend race cars & crotch rockets! - 2010-05-25 08:51:40

Here is my issue and not just on 97 but any ware. The need for speed/fast and furious morons. The pubescent retards who think adding a bunch of unsafe and useless modifications to their car endow them with the power of speed. Are those exhausts even legal? Most of these cars are extremely unsafe at any speed due to the dumb things they have done to them. They think they are fast and that they have the skill to drive like rally champions. If I am out in my old mustang they seem to think they MUST race me, like its some rite of passage to fly past and cut me off making their little gang signs or whatever. If I had a nickel for each of these morons who damn near crashed into me trying to prove themselves I could buy another car. And if youre wondering, no I dont race them. The crotch rockets on 97 and 10/100 are another serious problem. Just yesterday one flew between me and a truck I was passing. A few inches to either side and there would have been a lot of carnage. If you ask me both the Fast&Furious cars and crotch rockets should be confiscated and shredded on sight by the police.

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David Blacke - Arnold, md - Karma: Neutral

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Equal Enforcement - 2010-05-25 08:26:57

Although not a lawyer I believe Maryland driving regulations state the left lane is for passing and you should move to the right after you've passed. Drivers in the left lane who fail to yield the right of way should be pulled over and ticketed just the same as speeders, aggresive drivers, etc. Although certainly not the sole cause of aggresive driving, these drivers do contribute to situations where this behavior occurs.

I lived in Germany for 3 years and traveled throughout Europe and agree in most European countries, drivers use the left lane for passing and move to the right at the first opportunity.

So to any local law enforcement officers reading this post I would simply ask you to cite drivers on 97, and other highways, who remain in the left lane driving at or near the speed limit, with several vehicles or more behind them and fail to move to the right when given an opportunity to do so. Thank you.

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Charlie Lnu - , - Karma: Neutral

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All of the above? - 2010-05-25 01:41:53

There are so many accidents, most tragic, on 97. I have seen everything you guys speak of. From drunks, crotch rocket style bikes racing in and out of cars well over 100mph, slow granny drivers going UNDER the speed limit, giant trucks tail-gating at high speed... you name it, I have seen it. If some fool is going to go above the posted speed limit, it is your choice. If you get caught you pay. It is simple. That is the wonderful thing about free choice.

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Amy S - Crownsville, MD - Karma: Good

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enforcement - 2010-05-24 23:09:01

I was shocked to see so much police presence the other day on 97. It was common knowledge that you could drive however you wanted to without consequence. I don't have issue with speeding as long as it's not careless and outrageous. (And yes - get out of the left lane if you disagree.) I do hope the police manage to cut down the irresponsible antics that are a threat to everyone. I'll gladly curb my speeding to make room for enforcement and saving lives.

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Tyler Johnson - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Excellent

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Good - 2010-05-24 22:45:44

The speed limit is the speed LIMIT and applies in the left lane as well as the right. People drive like lunatics on that road. Just recently I had two idiots racing nearly hit my car. I've seen many police officers also driving way too fast on it as well. And don't even get me started on those motorcycle riders. If you start your own private road or racetrack then good luck to you. You can set any rules you want or have no rules. But the public highways have speed limits and people ought to follow them.

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William Cooke - Annapolis, MD - Karma: Terrible

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New Jersey Turnpike - 2010-05-24 22:45:34

Six Lanes of Driving Nightmare in New Jersey which is what the highways (495,695,895,I-270,I-83,I-95,I-97) in Maryland are becoming.

I carpooled with my parents to Woodbine Maryland to see my cousin on May 1st (Saturday) and my elderly mother was terrified especially on I-97 where people were passing us (my mother was doing 65mph) like we were sitting still.

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Steve Gundersen - Annapolis, Md - Karma: Terrible

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Well - 2010-05-24 18:01:40

Havent heard why driving in the left lane going the same speed as the car to the right or faster is the main reason for accidents on 97.

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bob builder - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible

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Wow - 2010-05-24 17:50:49

I think the average age of the persons blogging here has to be about 25. The speed limit is the speed limit. If you want it changed go over to state circle and get the politicians to do so. If you dont like the fact that a driver is doing the speed limit and not 15,20or30 mph over take another road. You are breaking the law because you think you can? You are the fools that i pass when the police have you pulled over for as the police say being stupid behined the wheel. Think about it for a minute. you go 80 i go 70 and i am the one causing you to drive on the shoulder? or can it be that where ever you need to go is so much more important then another persons life? Have any of you ever seen what a car can do to the human body? I have many times. I can tell you all it will hurt like nothing you can imagine and if you live the pain will be there for a long time. So go ahead and drive like you do. I will be there to put your parts in a plastic bag when you make that mistake.

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A Jones - Not naptown but Annapolis, md - Karma: Good

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Police state and left lane hogs - 2010-05-24 17:18:24

This is just another example of O'Malley turning Maryland into a police state. The I-97 crackdown is merely a ploy to raise revenue. I-97 is one of the safest highways in Maryland. You'll never hear the state provide accident data comparing I-97 to other interstates, or surface boulevards. There is no justification for the police state tactics.

As to the absurd statement from Lt. John McAndrew of the county police Traffic Safety Section: "It's that person who's impatient that's causing the accidents". What a crock! Have you ever been to an Autobahn, which has no speed limit? Left lane drivers on the Autobahn are every bit as "impatient" as Marylanders. The difference is that the German police patrolling the Autobahns will ticket, with heavy fines, those drivers who impede traffic flow by cruising the left lanes, while our dumb cops go after the drivers who have to pass them on the right to progress. The Autobahns have much lower fatality rates than US Interstates, despite better speeds.

Lt. John McAndrew should be fired and replaced by someone who understands traffic management.

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Ted Siomporas - , - Karma: Neutral

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speed limit - 2010-05-24 17:12:59

sorry kurt, the speed limit is set for making money for the county, state and insurance industry. the interstate system is designed for a safe operating speed of 85 mph under the right conditions.if you want to make roads safer, first, raise the age to 18, then require better driver training and testing. Then, as drivers age, require skills testing so when driving skills diminish with age take them off the high speed roads, then off completely when skills dictate. if you are afraid to drive the interstate system, then take a road you are more comfortable with. oh, and instead of building more roads, make mass transit the priority.

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Pat Bukowski - Odenton, Md - Karma: Neutral

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Stupid Enforcement - 2010-05-24 17:08:07

It's the retards blocking the left lane going the same speed as the right lane causing traffic and accidents. Speed is not the problem on the OPEN HIGHWAY. The speed limit of 65 is already way underposted for that highway. The state police and county police routinely fly at 90 with no problem. Everyone else should be allowed to as well, because it is a SAFE speed for the open highway. Yet the crackdown has nothing to do with revenue enforcement right? Safety...yeah right. The police departments are broke and need to make money along with the rest of the state. Get the idiots who was driving drunk, texting while driving, talking on their cell phones, driving below the limit causing accidents and traffic. This enforcement campaign is a total revenue generator and only causes more accidents and congestion with cops crawling all over the roadways with people pulled over.

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John Smith - Baltimore, MD - Karma: Neutral

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For passing not cruising - 2010-05-24 16:53:13

The left lane is for passing, not cruising. If it was always open for it's intended purpose than no one would be inclined to pass on the right or shoulder, nor would they ride too close to your bumper. It is this one single issue that is to blame for aggressive driving.
In Europe, people respectfully move to the right when they see the guy behind them flash the headlights. In the US, where everyone minds each others business and thinks that they need to dole out their version of morality with every action and breath, they stand their ground in defiance of common sense and courtesy.

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Stringer Bell - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Bad

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Bikes - 2010-05-24 16:30:14

Yea that is a big problem on 97.I cant tell you how many time I've seen these bikes doing that.Whats funny is last year there was a story about bikes and there was a guy that actually said they have to ride like that because bikes are made for speed.Well heck so is my car.Does that mean I can drive up the shoulder to pass people.

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bob builder - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible

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Bikes??? - 2010-05-24 16:20:07

How about those speed bikes. Packs of aka "Crouch Rockets" pass me almost all the time on I-97 and Rt. 50. What are they to do about them? The police cars just are not fast enough for them most of the time they are exceding 100 mph, they too are one of the biggest risks for accident, I have seen them go in between cars , pop the front wheel off the ground and take off, cut you off and not think twice about it. I-97 is like Anne Arundel's version of Europe's Auto Bond. When everyone gets on it they think speed.

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Jeffrey Evans - Baltimore, MD - Karma: Neutral

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Let us begin - 2010-05-24 16:08:50

Ok Stringer I would like to have a normal debate on your statement. "It's the moron in the left lane driving the same speed as the guy next to him that cause the accidents. Please explain to me why this is true in your opinion.And please I dont want a mathematical or moral reason.I want to know why you think this is the main cause of accidents.Plus do you believe this is true for just the people doing the posted speed limit in the left lane or even the people doing 10-15 miles over the posted speed limit and wont move over if someone going faster comes up on them.

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bob builder - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible

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Kurt - 2010-05-24 15:53:38

Why don't you stay to right and mind your own business? It works for Europe and it would work here if people weren't so concerned about standing their ground in the left lane.

I speak the truth.

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Stringer Bell - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Bad

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Alright - 2010-05-24 15:32:22

"Impatient drivers speeding, tailgating, honking, abruptly switching lanes, throwing their arms in the air at someone going the speed limit ahead of them - these are the folks police were looking for, McAndrew said."
Look another traffic story Nick,you really are into torture arent you.Now for everyone else and you know who you are.Look at the quote and see whats missing.I dont see anywhere that states their looking for people doing the posted speed limit in any lane.

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bob builder - annapolis, md - Karma: Terrible

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What - 2010-05-24 15:16:05

Stringer... the speed limit is set at a rate that has been deemed safe for perfect driving conditions. That definition includes crowded roadways, as well as inclement weather. Why don't you drive the speed limit... maintain a minimum of two seconds between you and the car in front of you and enjoy your drive rather than gnashing your teeth and cursing at all the other idiots out on the road. You'll arrive home or at work in a much better mood.

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Kurt Riefner - Crownsville, Md - Karma: Excellent

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They have it all wrong - 2010-05-24 14:03:55

It's the moron in the left lane driving the same speed as the guy next to him that cause the accidents.

If going the speed limit the entire time you're driving is your thing, that's fine. But the rest of us might want to pass you and that's what the left lane is for; so get out of it.

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Stringer Bell - Edgewater, MD - Karma: Bad