Traffic: It's Not Quite What We Think

I just enjoyed reading a review of Traffic, a new book by Tom Vanderbilt at Slate.com. It explains a lot about the behavior of motorists, although the irrationality of the whole thing will not be comforting to cyclists. For instance, building roads straighter makes them more dangerous. And I liked the reason that you will two Starbucks across the street from each other: traffic patterns are so poor that since it is so difficult to do a left turn against traffic it is easier just to build another coffee shop! I think this one is going on my reading list...

There is an interview with Mr. Vanderbilt at Salon.com as well now.

For a list of fascinating facts about US driving, check this out. And just remember that the most commonly dropped object on Los Angeles freeways is...a ladder!