Proposed changes to cruise protocol

[DamonZ28]

In the interest of making things safer for the cruise, I'm going to make some changes to the cruise protocol. To start off, I'm going to eliminate the 'rolling through stop signs' - as we know, all it takes is one mistake and the potential results can be devastating. We are also going to take the cruise at a much slower pace. I'm not going to make any firm mph limits, but it's going to be a much more reasonable pace. We're certainly not going to feather-foot through the curves, but we're not going to run at a cannonball pace either. It'll be 'brisk' at times, so if you're looking for a Sunday afternoon-type cruise, don't come along because you probably won't enjoy it. We also had someone leave the cruise in the morning, because they felt the pace was too fast, and they were being derided and cursed by drivers behind them. We didn't find out about this until the day after the cruise, and were disappointed to hear this. We don't want anyone to be pushed faster than they're comfortable with, so we will not tolerate this in the future. I know it's frustrating for other drivers when someone is going slower than they prefer to go. Perhaps it would be best for slower cars to keep to the rear of the group. Nobody will be left behind - we wait for everyone to catch up at the end of each road where possible, there are marker cars on turns where the group might be broken up, and there is always a car in the rear to keep everyone together. Overall, with a slower pace, this shouldn't really be an issue in the future. The proposed changes to the cruise protocol will be in the next message. Let's hear your suggestions:

[DamonZ28]

Don't push yourself too far or too fast! - We will travel the route at a 'brisk' pace. We don't want to drive too fast, out of concern for the safety of others; but not too slow, so that we can enjoy the full experience of driving these great machines. If you feel uncomfortable with the speed of the group, feel free to let others pass and drop back toward the back of the group. Do not feel pressured to be pushed faster than you're comfortable with. You will not be left behind! We will always wait for everyone to catch up at the end of each road, and we will have marker cars at each turn as necessary.

Pay Attention - keep focused on your driving, and your eyes on the road. All it takes is a split second, and the damage is done. Following Distance - approximately 1.5 car lengths between each car. Absolutely no tailgating, or opening a space and closing it at high speed. However, with so many cars, it is important to stay close to the group to avoid getting lost. Yes, it has happened every year so far.

Seat Belt Usage - The use of safety belts is greatly encouraged. Not only can you save yourself from injury, or even worse, by wearing your seat belt; but you can save others from pain and suffering as well. Even if you don't normally wear one, you are at a greater risk during this type of event and I stronly urge you to consider wearing one, just for this event.

Speed Limits - while driving through cities and villages, we will keep to the posted speed limits. When out in the countryside, we may open it up a little.

Passing - Passing non-cruise vehicles, in an attempt to catch up to the group, is permitted as long as it is done in a cautious, safe manner, and is in a legal passing zone. If you wish to pass a cruise member, or if you want someone to pass you, indicate to them through a hand motion or via the FRS radio. Otherwise, NO PASSING IS PERMITTED. On 2-lane roads, stay in the same lane as the leader, unless otherwise instructed.

FRS Radios - these radios are an essential communication device, and it is strongly recommeded that each participant carry one. There will be some extras, but please bring your own if possible. We use the radios to warn of oncoming traffic, directions, roadway hazards, emergency purposes, and general chit-chat. The cruise is much more enjoyable when you're in contact with all the other drivers.

Littering - Absolutely no littering. Keep your trash in the car, or if you are outside your car, find an acceptable trash bin to dispose of your waste.