Why is it that well educated people cannot read and understand the Washington Driver’s Guide? The good book put out by the Dept. of Licensing to set the standards for driving within the state appears to be completely beyond the understanding of so many of our licensed drivers.

The good book is the guideline by which one obtains a Washington Driver’s License. The rules of the road are established to, first, provide safety in vehicle operating; and, second, to establish equal rights of the road for all.

So when the traffic law says to “signal” when changing lanes, or directions, why do our well-educated people ignore the law? It is in the book and on their driver’s test, so at one time they knew it. Short memory? No memory?

The law also states certain times when lights are to be on. It also states NOT to drive with parking lights on. State and city law also prohibits parking in a crosswalk and on a sidewalk. Some people may not know that the sidewalks are put there for pedestrian traffic, not an extension of a parking lot or driveway. Walking people have equal rights with vehicle traffic.

The driver’s guide also points out how to make a left turn. You do it at a 90-degree angle. Do not cut corners.

As you enter the city of Oak Harbor from any direction you will notice a sign that states the speed limit is 25 mph, “unless” otherwise posted. The 40 mph speed limit on some sections of Highway 20 does not grant a 40 mph speed limit in the residential sections of town. That is 25 mph maximum. Strange that our well educated people cannot read and understand traffic signs.

Brown lives in Oak Harbor