Too close for comfort

Dear Lady in the Car Behind Me,

Hi,

You were a hair’s breadth behind me in the right lane as we traveled a short distance.

As I entered a two-lane residential area (read: 25 mph) I slowed to the posted speed limit, passing houses, a crosswalk, a park, and a church. As the speedometer gradually drifted to 28 mph, I braked to resume the correct speed. It was around 2:30 in the afternoon on a weekday, school dismissal time.

Glancing in my rear-view mirror, originally I thought you were talking to a passenger since you were gesticulating wildly. But you were alone in your car; and you were talking to me.

In the past I’ve pulled over to allow a driver who wants to overtake me (read: occupy the physical space I am inhabiting) to get one entire car-length ahead. I figure, you’re welcome to it, and the speeding ticket.

This particular two-lane stretch in Warwick has a perennial speeding problem. Recently the Warwick Police Department again placed an electronic speed limit sign to remind drivers of the posted signage.

Reducing my speed as I approached a stop sign, and signaling a turn, I checked my mirror as you raised your arms in an Alleluia, and applauded. Thank you, but next time please come to a complete stop before taking your hands off the steering wheel.

As I turned, I heard you accelerate across the intersection, and wondered if you were headed to your neighborhood at that speed. You might even have a kid or a dog.

Here’s an idea: when feeling frustrated, count to 10 like Thomas Jefferson suggested. Or maybe, get out of bed five minutes earlier, and then you’ll be in front of me.

Erin O’Brien

Warwick