Top 5 WORST Driving Habits in El Paso

Let's face it, we all have some bad driving habits but some have more than others.

I've been reporting traffic in El Paso for a couple of years now and I'm starting to notice some bad driving habits in this great city of ours. Even though, Allstate considers the Sun City amongst the safest in the nation (50th safest driving city out of the top 200 cities in the country.) We still have some drivers that need a refresher course on how to drive.

If you're one of these drivers,  please change your ways. 

1. Driving Slow in the Passing Lane

A lot of drivers think the left lane is the fast lane but that's simply not true. It's used for passings. In many states the law says people driving slower than the “normal speed of traffic” must move to the right lane. Basically, if someone is coming up behind you fast, get out of that left lane.

2. Merging Improperly

Seriously, it's not that hard to do. Wikihow has simple directions,'The first step of merging safely is to make sure you're going the same speed as the traffic on the highway. Use the acceleration lane - the entrance ramp or place where you're entering the highway - to quickly gain speed.'

3. Using Your Cell Phone While Driving

Talking while on your cell phone is illegal in El Paso but that doesn't stop drivers from doing it. Distracted driving is defined as any activity that could divert a person’s attention away from the primary task of driving. TxDOT gives us a couple of simple tips to end distracted driving, which includes waiting until later to talk or text, use an app to disable texting when driving or safely pull over to the side of the road if a phone call or text cannot wait.

4. Speeding

People might think we have a NASCAR track in El Paso but we don't. You would think with all this construction going on in the city drivers would be a little more considerate by slowing down. In fact, it's been the exact opposite of that.

Back in June, two men were accused of speeding and drunken driving in separate incidents. I'd like to remind my fellow El Pasoans to be patient. Remember to slow down and always follow posted work zone speed limits. Speeding is one of the major causes of work zone crashes.

5. Failing to Yield to Bicycles

The City of El Paso implementing a comprehensive bike plan which will determine how bike lanes, bike share, and other bike amenities all fit together in our city. So, it's important for all of us to safely accommodate all cyclist. I've included some tips from TxDOT for drivers and cyclist below.

Tips for Bicyclists

• Wear a properly fitted helmet to reduce the chances of head injury and death. (Some cities and counties require cyclists to wear helmets. Contact local law enforcement for more information.)
• Always check brakes and tires before riding.
• Make it easier for drivers to see you by wearing light colors or reflective clothing

.
Tips for Drivers

• Be on the lookout for cyclists on the highway, especially at intersections.
• If you're passing a bicyclist, move to another lane if possible and give them plenty of room.
• Watch for riders who may need to maneuver around potholes and debris.