The five types of passengers we've all had in the car
Being the self-appointed designated driver is one thing. Dealing with passengers is next level.Having company usually beats driving solo - but, sometimes… These are our top five types of passengers that deserve to be outed.
The navigator
The ‘I would have taken that turn’ passenger… the one who questions your chosen route is the passenger who should get the bus. It doesn’t matter if the driver chooses a route that might not be the quickest path between point A and B – it’s their car, their route. End of story.
The radio fiddler
Whether you’re a smooth FM, talkback radio or a Buddha Bar type, everybody knows that the driver gets to control the most important buttons – the infotainment. The passenger who constantly fiddles with the radio is most unwelcome. There’s a reason these controls favour the driver in most modern cars – the driver’s decision is final. Stop touching.
The speed check
Armed with licence-worthy eyesight, a visible speedometer and an acceptable grasp of road rules, finding yourself coupled with the passenger who feels the need to narrate every speed limit sign is nothing short of draining.
The heckler
Maaaaaate. This person knows everyone. So much so that they always see someone they know en route – cue kerbside heckling. On what planet is it ok to yell out the window of a car, anyway? We have two words for you. Window lock.
White knuckles
Nothing is quite as unsettling as a passenger who holds on for dear life (usually in complete silence), regardless of current speed. Such passengers can also often be found foot-well braking, too. If you don’t like the way I drive, there are some obvious solutions.
Related: 10 things you’ll understand if you’re first in your crew to get your licence
Related: Five bad driving habits that need to stop for the sake of your passengers
Related: The five things every parent says to their kids in the car
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