Let me discuss the various types of drivers on our roads. For an observant motorist, it is easy to note and feel the energy of another driver while at your own wheel. I will share my findings.
I have met the arrogant driver who believes the roads are made for him and is entitled because his car is above average. He does not tolerate an overtake and literally smirks at the lesser breeds of cars as if driving a small or cheap car is criminal. He will accelerate and takes pride in multiple overtakes just to prove a point, even if it endangers himself and others. “Have you seen my car,” is all that he cares about.
Ever met a clueless driver? One second they indicate to the left, then right only to abruptly stop in front. Some will even intersect when they should stop. These are close allies with the timid who almost fear accelerating and move the seat as close to the steering as possible, almost choking on it, as if that move will enhance driving. A mere turn takes forever, rorating the wheel drlicately, instead of rolling it once, braking and jerking the car while at it.
The worried driver is physically on the road, but absent minded. They would be thinking about where their next drop of fuel will come from. They are constantly staring at the gauge at it blinks, moving the gear lever to neutral on a slope. They want to save as must as they can to be able to buy ndiwo, milk and bread from the supposed K20 000 fuel money. The worry is written all over their faces.
The stressed and frustrated driver will be exasperated by the unruly motorcyclists and minibus drivers who seem to believe they are kings of the jungle we call roads. Those drivers will cuss and even engage in verbal exchanges with the road vagabonds who equally retaliate because they are also stressed and frustrated from slow business. Their exchanges lead to road rage.
Amid all the chaos, there are drivers who are too nice and responsible for the welfare of others. They give way to numberless cars at intersections, disregarding those behind him who are equally in a hurry. They stop at a Zebra Crossing even for pedestrians walking in opposite directions. These will even stop for a traffic officer who hasn’t signaled them to do so. The angry driver on the other hand is irked by anything and everybody. They are angry for being at traffic checks, for being behind any car as they believe their rightful place is ahead of everybody, angry about traffic jams, angry for being called on the phone and even angry at their own children for fidgeting in the car or ‘asking stupid questions’.
Ever met the diva that believes everyone on the road has eyes for her makeup, outfit and car, regardless of make. They flash their extended eyelids and smiles as if advertising looks is part of the Highway Code. They want to be given way because it is right to so do for a beauty. If it is not for enticing men, it is just for being the self-absorbed diva whose existence, she believes, is for the masses who ought to appreciate them.
The amateur will change lanes haphazardly and mirrors mean nothing. As long as they ignite and accelerate, that accounts for driving. One way means ‘you go for it as no one seems to want to do so’. Parking is messy as it encroaches on reserved paths. All they know is brag that they are drivers.
Lastly, there are pros. They are good and know it. They lower the seat and slide it backwards as they play loud music while driving with one hand. Their demeanor says they have been doing this forever and nothing takes them by surprise. Indeed they swerve just in time to avoid an uncalculating driver who enters the road suddenly, but will retain their composure.
