The Top 5 Rules for Driving at the Jersey Shore

We're approaching the time of year when our roads are suddenly flooded with visitors who, somewhat understandably, don't know our (until now) unwritten rules of the road.

So let's spread the word in an attempt to prevent lots of traffic headaches and screaming of expletives.

1
Get out of the left lane
The left lane is for PASSING. If you are in the left lane, and there is no one in the center lane, you should move over. If you are doing 75 mph in the left lane, and someone behind you is doing 80 mph, you should move over. If you are going the speed limit in the left lane? You're ruining the flow of traffic for EVERYONE ELSE and you should let someone else drive from now on.
2
Know the *actual* speed limit
Now, I know the legal eagles are going to complain about this one, but it's common knowledge at the Jersey Shore that the ACTUAL speed limit on a highway is at least 10 mph over the POSTED speed limit. (Smaller roadways, it's 5-10 mph over.) This does NOT mean drive like a reckless moron. Just don't impede the flow of traffic -- put your foot on the gas. (Also, if you get a speeding ticket, it's not my fault.)
3
Know how to navigate a circle
There are a handful of traffic circles here in our area, and for whatever reason, they seem to excessively confuse drivers. HERE'S some handy advice on how to navigate our circles.
4
If you're making a left turn, get in the right lane.
Makes no sense, I know. In Jersey, we have jughandles, so you will effectively turn right to go left. It honestly makes traffic better for everyone, because the left lane doesn't get all clogged up with people trying to turn, and no one has to take their life in their hands to make a left across 2-3 lanes of traffic. If you miss your turn, don't worry, the next jughandle is probably a quarter of a mile away.
5
Stop for pedestrians
If you see people walking in a crosswalk, stop. They have the right of way. This often requires paying extra attention to upcoming crosswalks -- I know, I know, who actually wants to pay attention?? The thing is, in places like downtown Red Bank, Asbury, Manasquan, or along any of the beaches, there are always TONS of people walking around during the summer, and sometimes they pop into the crosswalk quickly. This is one place to ignore that '5-10 mph above the speed limit' thing.