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WendyArmbuster t1_j6soazo wrote

Reply to comment by blu3dice in /r/SpringfieldMO random discussion thread by AutoModerator

>That's not the flex you think it is.

Practicing to be competent at something isn't a flex. It's what we do to improve ourselves. We practice math with homework, or musical instruments, or art. Why is it so odd to practice to improve something we do so often, that's so important, and requires a high degree of skill? Why is practicing driving in poor conditions such an unreasonable, controversial idea? Why do we accept people out there in heavy equipment who are unwilling to put in effort to increase our safety?

The answer is that most people in Springfield (and probably all over the country) don't consider driving something that requires skill and attention. It's not something they do but rather something that allows them to get to the grocery store or work. It's why people look at their phones while they're driving. They don't place any importance on it. They don't value the skills it takes because they don't see it as a skilled activity. They just slow way down, because that's their only option, because they haven't put in the time to allow themselves any other options.

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blu3dice t1_j6suqzd wrote

>Why do we accept people out there in heavy equipment who are unwilling to put in effort to increase our safety?

It's those actual government departments (transportation and police included) in charge of maintaining safe roads that every single winter storm is putting out public notices to SLOW down. That advice applies to everyone.

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WendyArmbuster t1_j6sz3on wrote

I didn't say not to slow down. I hope I didn't imply that we shouldn't slow down. I'm just saying that if multiple people are honking at you and traffic is backing up behind you, that's probably unreasonably slow and the proper solution is not further speed reductions but rather increased skills.

Mostly though this is just a pebble in my shoe. It's not that big of a deal, but every year when we get weather like this most people are still unprepared for it in their driving skills, like they never expected to get winter weather again, and then they get on Reddit and complain that businesses are open and they have to go to work in these conditions and other people are out there driving like it's no big deal and it scares them.

On top of that, when you suggest to someone that their winter weather driving skills could use some improvement it's like you've just called them the worst person on the planet. People get so upset about it, which is probably because it's true. But it's true for everybody. Don't take it hard people, just get out there and practice in parking lots. It's fun!

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trashchan333 t1_j6t1cbn wrote

Ok but I also never said traffic was backed up behind me dude, it’s was just one asshole. You clearly were just looking for the slightest excuse to tell the world that you’re a great driver and everybody else just needs to practice.

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WendyArmbuster t1_j6unxw2 wrote

> You clearly were just looking for the slightest excuse to tell the world that you’re a great driver and everybody else just needs to practice.

This is true actually, and sadly.

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