Q: A friend in Germany says they describe a merge as a zipper, with alternating cars merging into one lane. I don’t know if it’s a law, or a generally accepted custom, but I occasionally see it used here. Wow, it makes traffic flow so smoothly, and without ruffled feathers.
Of course, those clowns who ignore the need to merge and just drive up as far as possible, then push their way into the lane screw this up. But still … the practice has made me a safer, more courteous driver.
Claire Lomax, Oakland
A: I like the description of merging traffic as a zipper. You’re right, traffic can move more smoothly and safely when two flows of traffic merge this cooperatively.
Q: I managed to lose my REAL ID driver’s license. I tried to get a replacement online, but the DMV insists my correct identifying information does not ring a bell with them. Now I need to descend into Dante’s Ninth Circle of Hell with an unscheduled in-person visit to the DMV (I confess that when I got my REAL ID, it was painless and everyone was very nice and helpful).
Do I need to bring in all the stuff I submitted last time? No help on this from the DMV website.
Ward Loveland, Redwood City
A: You don’t need to bring all the REAL ID qualifying information when you go to the DMV to get a replacement REAL ID driver’s license. Has anyone else tried to replace their REAL ID?
Q: How do I report DMV handicapped placard or license plate fraud?
Linda B.
A: Following up on your recent question about a late neighbor’s RV with a disabled person license plate that his son continued to use, the DMV provided more information. If anyone suspects a person is misusing a disabled person placard or license plate, report it to the DMV using an online complaint form, or contact a local DMV Investigations office.
Submissions are confidential. The DMV reviews every complaint. If violations are found, the department takes steps to ensure compliance.
Q: Caltrans fenced the area around the Tennyson exit from northbound Interstate 880 in Hayward. The fencing prevents drivers proceeding eastbound on Tennyson from seeing oncoming traffic, until the point of merging. This is hazardous.
How long will Caltrans have this fencing up, and could they have put it on the north side of Tennyson to avoid this obstructed view?
Douglas Abbott
A: You sent me this question, and I forwarded it to the Caltrans contact for that area. After getting more information, a crew made the change that was needed.
Q: That was helpful. Thank you to Caltrans.
Douglas Abbott
A: The kudos are surely much appreciated.
Look for Gary Richards at facebook.com/mr.roadshow or contact him at mrroadshow@bayareanewsgroup.com.