A Introspective Look at Stop Signs

You've seen them everywhere: large, red signs with eight sides on them and the word "Stop" in bold, white lettering. Yes, we're talking about stop signs. They're probably merely a nuisance to you, but there is more to Stop Signs than meets the eye. Stop signs are actually used all over the world, not just in the United States. For the most part, they are almost all red with the white lettering, and with eight sides. In Europe, you don't see stop signs are predominately as you see them in the United States. A stop sign is mostly used for safety reasons in the United States. Other countries may use a stop sign to help keep a healthy traffic flow. Supposedly, stop signs are meant for assessing the 'right of way' situation. You know what I'm talking about...when there's a Mustang that just ran the stop sign...and you know it was your turn. It's so unfortunate when this happens. That Mustang could put others in danger. And he could end up with a wrecked car. But I'm sure the 'cool' factor would be worth it. (And for the record, I do not hate on Mustangs; I'm only using them as an example...for all you Mustang lovers reading out there in cyberspace.

Stop signs are famous for being "decorated." Some people feel that the white, boldface lettering spelling the word 'stop' isn't enough. So of course the infamous graffiti artists (if you will) think up of clever additions to the already effective stop sign. One graffiti artist may write "Abortion" underneath the stop sign. After all is said and done, the stop sign would read "Stop Abortion." Instead of the stop sign being used to convey its original message of safety, it has suddenly become a medium for someone else's vendetta against abortion. (To travel on a little tangent here, I hope you don't mind, I wanted to add that as far as the abortion issue, I can't really say if I am against or for it. I am undecided at this point.)

What's funny is that some people think that stop signs are a bad idea. Why is this? It is because they feel that stop signs will only encourage motorists to drive faster to make up for the lost time they spent waiting at the stop sign. In such great woe those individuals find themselves in. Ten seconds is such a long time to wait. Oh, what a long time it is. Stop signs can actually cause rear end collisions as well Say there is a considerate driver, stopping at the stop sign like a good citizen, and there's a Ferrari behind him, who just slammed his brakes but was too late. Whamo! A rear end collision has just occurred. And as you have probably had experience with, too many stop signs can get so frustrating! Start. Stop. Start. Stop. How much more gas is this going to waste? Especially in these days, where the oil prices go sky high....who wants to spend more money on gas due to excessive braking? Not me. But for the most part, it's something that can't be changed. So next time you come to a stop sign, use those ten second to ponder it. Marvel at its bright red huge, wonder what kind look the graffiti artist was going for...and remember, most of all, that it is there for your safety. Consider the stop sign your friend for life.