Johnnie Aycock, longtime former president of the West Alabama Chamber of Commerce and host of the Noon Show on Catfish 100.1, shares his thoughts on local traffic habits in his new column for the Tuscaloosa Thread.
Remember the old “passing lane”?
Aycock recalls a time when the left lane was simply a passing lane: drivers would pull over, overtake, then return to the right. He notes that simplicity didn’t last, and today the left lane has become a pre‑emptive turn‑preparation lane before Thanksgiving.
Planning versus confusion
He observes that many motorists settle into the left lane miles early, ready to turn at a moment’s notice. While this shows foresight, it often leads to sudden lane changes that keep other drivers on their toes.
Right‑lane surprises
The right lane, according to Aycock, offers its own challenges—unexpected stops, sudden entrances, and drivers searching for an address they haven’t seen since 1987.
Middle lane chaos
Even the middle lane isn’t a refuge; it’s become a “rolling homeowners association” for eighteen‑wheelers, making lane changes risky for smaller vehicles.
Turn signals as road markers
Aycock points out that turn signals now act like historical markers, indicating where a driver has already been. He urges motorists to use them responsibly, noting that a signal held for miles can suggest either an upcoming turn or indecision.
Common‑sense courtesy
He concludes with a call for a little more courtesy, attention, and humility on the road. “Leave some space, take a breath, and keep your sense of humor,” Aycock writes, adding that a simple signal before turning can prevent many frustrations.
The Entrepreneurial Community editorial will appear every Monday, offering more local insights from Aycock and co‑host Lisa Jones, who can be heard on the Noon Show weekdays from 12 to 1 p.m.
Original reporting: The Tuscaloosa Thread — read the source article.
