The world has got a rapid progress in every field. Therefore everybody wants a rapid movement at his or her desired place. Automobile courtesy, these days, seems to be a contradiction in terms. The cars are bigger and faster, the roads and freeways are more crowded, and it seems everyone is in a hurry to get somewhere an hour ago.

Moving from one city to another is not a big deal and not a big question if you have your own means of communications. Before acquiring a car you must know driving and before driving you must know the rules and regulations of traffic and driving as well. When you are in a foreign country it becomes important to be mindful of rules and customs. In many places, you will drive on the other side of the road to what you are used to in the U.S. you will have to deal with such new hazards as round abouts, narrow two lane roads, leisurely bands of livestock sauntering down your path, and signs and signals with which you are completely unfamiliar.

The first thing to do when you arrive at a new destination (or are enrooted) is to take time to familiarize yourself with the laws and customs of the local roads. Whether you are in your own country or abroad, here are a few tips that must be known to a driver of a car.

Learn the local laws. In foreign countries there are driving manuals or, if you will be staying some time, driving schools. You may also consult the car rental agency or local police about the rules and customs.

Know the road signs. It is easy enough to get a booklet about signs and what they mean. Many places use international symbols now that should be recognizable to most anyone. If in doubt, stop and ask someone.

Obey the road signs. This is not redundant. It is one thing to memorize all the road signs and have the children recite them to you as you go merrily through the countryside, but you must actually obey them. This is a matter of safety as much as it is a matter of courtesy. Also, depending upon the country or part of the U.S. where you may be, the jails are uncomfortable and the laws unforgiving.

Be calm and polite. If you have not paid attention to the previous three items here, and there is an incident, it is more than likely your fault. Now is the time to be just as sweet and apologetic as you can be. Even if the incident was clearly the fault of the other person and you are the out of towner, don’t resort to demanding your rights and shaking your fist.

If it is a matter of giving up the right of way, then graciously move over. If someone needs to enter the roadway in front of you, wave them in with a smile.