Date: Fri, 04 Jul 2003 09:11:26 -0400
From: "Andrew Schwartz" <andrew_s_swartz@domain.elided>
Subject: Re: Alfa Museo and Driving in Italia
Having passed driving tests in both Europe and the U.S. - I have to agree
that the required driving standard in the US is woefully bad. The minimum
test length in Britain is 45 minutes, here my Mass license look me 5
minutes.
When I lived in Rome, I learnt the secret of Italian city driving - you have
to focus on the cars IN FRONT OF YOU. Everyone does this and disregards the
cars behing them - it is their responsbility to watch you. That's why what
looks like chaos can actually work. Try that in an American city and you'll
be in an accident in 10 seconds - different rules of engagement.
While their city driving is fun and skillful, and 'when in Rome do as the
Romans do', but if you are driving on the Autostrada in Italy - don't
always follow the Italian lead especially in bad visibility or fog.
Italians will continue to do 150 kph regardless of the fact they can't see
in front of their nose. I've seen some very nasty accidents that have
happened because of this. An Italian girlfriend explained it originates
from the Italian male sense of indestructiveness (witness Valentino Rossi).
I never made it to the Alfa Museo - but sounds like I'll definitely have to
plan a trip when I'm next in Milano.
Andrew Swartz
'67 Duetto
Brookline, MA