Driving in the Outer Hebrides – Travel
Driving in the Outer Hebrides
Steve Hatherley
When you think of the Outer Hebrides, you normally think of sandy beaches, ancient standing stones and lilting Scottish accents. You dont normally associate the Outer Hebrides with some of the best driving in the British Isles...
I certainly didnt expect to enjoy the driving so much when I visited the Western Isles the other name for the Outer Hebrides in Scotland recently.
It certainly isnt speed that makes the roads in the Outer Hebrides so exhilarating. In fact, for much of the time I didnt get out of third gear...
The roads are often single track with passing places. And where they are single track, often there are rocky ditches either side of a surprisingly narrow track. If you are at all in doubt of the width of your car, dont drive on the Outer Hebrides!
If the width of the roads wasnt enough, there are other distractions to keep you busy. The first are sheep. There are several times as many sheep on the Outer Hebrides as there are people, and for some reason sheep enjoy standing around in the middle of the road. Lambs are particularly lively and you have to take care when passing.
The other distraction is the often jaw-dropping scenery. Sometimes its all too tempting to look at the view when you should be watching the road...
The roads themselves are often sinuous, snaking their way through rugged scenery. You cant relax for a moment when youre behind the wheel in the Outer Hebrides.
Fortunately there isnt much other traffic. And while its always polite to wave to someone who pulls over to let you pass and return their wave, you quickly find that everyone waves anyway
Test Driving A New Car – Auto
Test Driving A New Car
Kevin Schappell
One of the most important steps in buying a new or used car is the test drive. You can do all the research you like, but it all comes down to the test drive. Driving the car must be comfortable, easy, and enjoyable. Follow these few steps and get the most out of your next test drive.
Check over the car before you leave the dealers lot. Tires, fluids, and lights should all be checked before you drive. Also make sure there is gas in the car.
If at all possible go on the test drive by yourself. You need to concentrate on the driving experience and the noises of the car. A babbling salesman will distract you and not let you get a good read on the car.
Before leaving the lot, adjust the seat, mirrors, and the climate control system. You do not need to be distracted while driving an unfamiliar car. Make sure you are comfortable and have a good view of everything around you.
Drive a variety of roads. Mix it up with some city driving followed by highway if you can. You should make sure to try every gear and reach highway speeds to fully test the car.
Test the brakes. The steering wheel should not shake while applying the brakes. Also, check to see if the car pulls to one side while braking. Squeaks and rattles could also indicate worn pads.
Notice how the car tracks. When you take your hands off of the wheel, which way does the car go If the car consistently tracks to one side, be concerned about the alignment.
The last thing you should check is how you feel about the car. Did you enjoy driving it Was there enough power to get your blood pumping Is this a car you can live with every day Most important dont get caught up in the moment, dont buy the first car you see, and never ever let the dealer think you are interested.
About The Author
Kevin Schappell maintains http://www.carbuyersclub.com where he gives advice on buying, selling, insurance, and financing. A mechanical engineer and car guy, Kevin has decided to spend his online time helping others learn about automobiles. To learn more about how your car works, Kevin has created http://www.mycarwizard.com.
kevin@schappell.com
Anger and Your Driving: Use Self-Talk to Create Safer Vistas – Stress Management
Anger and Your Driving: Use Self-Talk to Create Safer Vistas
Dr. Tony Fiore
Date: January 28, 2001
Place: Fashion Island, Newport Beach, California
The incident: Jane, a middle aged professional woman had an altercation with another woman who accosted her after she refused to give up her parking spot.
Jane clearly reached the coveted spot first, but the other woman asked her to move, explaining she was 20 minutes late for a doctor