Driver pleased by resolution to Interstate 680 conundrum
Q
I sent you a letter regarding the controversy about drivers turning right off the northbound Interstate 680 off-ramp to Alum Rock Avenue on a red arrow, and it was published a few weeks ago. To my pleasant surprise, the red light was changed to a circle. I can now make that turn (in a safe manner) without fear of persecution.
I will take credit for initiating this revolutionary improvement, and gladly give you credit for spreading my gospel.
— Dave Albert, San Jose
A
You and the legions who pushed for this change deserve the credit, but I’ll take some, too. Now folks, behave yourself. No rolling through the right turn and jamming up this busy intersection.
Q
I was southbound on Interstate 580, 2 miles from Interstate 238, about 7:45 p.m. in light Saturday night traffic. Suddenly the car in front came to an abrupt stop, and I saw a car perpendicular to the fast lane and one in the No. 4 lane in the same 90 degree position.
The occupants of the first car decided to walk across the freeway with no concern for anything (like life). I saw no tire marks, leaking fluids or damage.
I’ve seen many after-the-fact situations that defy reality. Just really stupid people who shouldn’t drive — ever.
— Keith Scott, Milpitas
A
Or get out of their cars and walk across a freeway. This is a leading cause of road deaths and injuries. Keep driving to the shoulder or an offramp even if you have a flat tire or other damage.
Q
Last month I fainted, fell, hit my head and was unconscious for 30 seconds.
The ER doctor said that he had reported me to the DMV and health department and that I should get cleared by my doctor before driving again.
My internist gave me a slip of paper OKing my driving. Am I supposed to file anything with the DMV?
A
— Jim Konsevich
Your record is clear. The local DMV Driver Safety Office will not start an investigation or potentially ask for a medical evaluation until it has received a report from a doctor or health department.
Since your doctor has cleared you to drive, you may continue to operate a motor vehicle.
The driver can wait until he is contacted by the DMV safety office.
It will inform you whether or not you need to have the medical evaluation completed by the doctor.
A positive medical exam is often all that is required to clear a driver who has experienced a single nonseizure-related loss of consciousness episode.
Or you can have your doctor complete the DS 326 form available online and mail it to: San Jose Driver Safety Office, 90 Great Oaks Blvd., Suite 104, San Jose, 95119.