Why doesn't everyone start moving forward as soon as the traffic light turns green?

(2011-06-21 14:25:07)

1. Captain Sterlbean Says: If everyone moved forwards at the same time, the whole traffic column could get moving quicker. You could get more people through the lights before they went red again. There's no reason why it couldn't be done, apart from the fact that no one pays attention at traffic lights.

2. i90east Says: "If everyone started moving at the same time, the distance between each car would stay the same, then they all just gradually accelerate and spread out."

When cars are lined up at a light there's about 3 feet of space between each car. It would be way too dangerous for the cars to be moving at any speed at such a close distance from one another. In order for the line of cars to distance themselves as they all start moving, the first car would have to accelerate very very quickly, then the second car a little more slowly, the third car a little more slowly etc etc. That's the only way the last car in line would be able to start moving at the same time as the first car and have all the cars build a safe distance between them.

3. Simba Says: Really??? It's about safety.

Most people don't leave much room between them and the car in front of them, so unless the car in front of them moves, they will rear end them. Also, you can't assume the person in front of you is going to move. It's about safety. Same reason the first person often doesn't immediately start going as soon as the light turns. There are morons out there that run red lights, and it would cause an accident. And then add the idea of yours, now you have the accident from the person running the light, and several fender benders because the whole column started to move and had nowhere to go.

You just have to leave a little extra time for those traffic lights.

4. Shut r down Says: In smaller towns and places where there are many senior citizens there is no sense of urgency. Try lolligagging in Chicago or Vancouver and you'll get a friendly beep. I sometimes honk in Silver City NM and the jerks just sit there longer. It's partly culture too. Try a short beep or two and see if it speeds things up.

5. William Says: Wow, hope I never have to be in a line with you, it's called safety,
the expresion in car driving is " stay alert & watch out for the other guy " You must be the other guy!!!

6. woozybear Says: Your logic is exactly accurate and not everyone is in a rush all the time. Safety is the first priority.