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Grand County suffers from tailgating urban drivers

To the Editor:

I left Boston 37 years ago to slow down in the open spaces of the American West. What did I come here for?

When I got a driver’s license in 1966, I was taught to stay one car length back from the guy in front of you for each 10 mph you’re traveling. I don’t count seconds or roadside objects. I protect myself from sudden stops, ice, rocks, wildlife, tree crews, avalanches, high water, multiple pileups and newcomers who think four-wheel drive will save them from a skid. Not.



People who tailgate are not peaceful. Tailgaters are aggressive drivers in a hurry, who abuse others with their own selfish, rude, malicious stupidity.

A 50 mph speed limit on U.S. Highway 34 is not the rule when starting for work on a snowpacked road with fog and spring flurries.



Mountain passes are marked with 15 to 25 mph switchbacks with a solid yellow line ” no passing.

I think if you’ve been to college and are new here, you hot dogs need to grow up, respect your neighbor, respect yourselves and back off. Assimilate. Tailgate at your peril.

Another thought: This behavior is usually not experienced in rural areas of adjacent Western states. Grand County is 100 miles from Denver’s 3 million people, now a mountain suburb. Tailgaters primarily are crass, disrespectful yuppies, new rich city slickers, presumably educated and liberal.

Also: This letter writer has a clear Colorado motor vehicle record, has driven in all lower 48 states, completed Ryder, Aspen Transportation and National Safety Council driving classes.

Chris Daley

Grand County


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