Rules of the Road

How to Have a Fun and Safe Drive

The goal is to have an enjoyable day driving your Miata. Following a few simple guidelines will enhance everyone’s fun.

General Items

1. 1.Use common sense, be courteous and follow the law.

1. 2.Arrive at the starting point on time with a full tank of gas.

1. 3.Be ready to leave on time.

1. 4.If you are going to meet the group on the route or leave the group before the end, tell us.

1. 5.If you pass the leader of the group, or if you pull over and wave the sweep car past you, you have effectively left the group and are on your own!

1. 6.If you need to pull over, turn on your flashers and pull off the road. The sweep car will stop behind you.

1. 7.If you suddenly decide to leave the group, pull off the road and wave the sweep car past you.

1. 8.When we stop, make sure you pull completely off the road.

1. 9.Use your turn signals.

1. 10.If you want the group to stop, flash your lights. If the car behind you flashes their lights, flash yours until the leader pulls over.

1. 11.When we pass through a congested area, we will stop as soon as safely possible to re-group before any turns are made.

1. 12.When we have pulled off, and are ready to start out again, the sweep car will indicate when it is safe to pull out and will pull out to indicate it is safe (though you should also check). Then, all Miatas should pull out simultaneously, to get onto the road as quickly as possible, in a line.
   
   

Passing

1. 1.Pass only when legal and safe.

1. 2.If a member of the group wants to pass you, let them.
   
   

Speed

1. 1.The lead Miata will establish the pace for the group, but it is each driver's responsibility to keep the Miata behind him or her in sight and to keep up with the group.

1. 2.Stay within the posted speed limit.
   
   

Lead Miata

1. 1.Be aware of changing weather and road conditions. If it is hotter or colder than expected, allow extra stops so people can change clothes, put tops up or down, washroom breaks, coffee breaks, etc.

1. 2.Wait for the sweep Miata to verify that all cars have cleared a controlled intersection before resuming speed. Do NOT slow down after a turn to watch to see if people made it. This often causes bunching up of cars and can be a traffic hazard.

1. 3.Always allow space for followers to pull out of the traffic lanes without bunching up.
   
   

Sweep Miata

1. 1.Stay in frequent contact with the lead Miata in congested areas.

1. 2.Always let the lead Miata know when you have cleared a controlled intersection or congested area.

1. 3.Do not pass a Miata that has pulled over unless they have told you they are dropping out or if they wave you by.

1. 4.The sweep Miata should let the lead Miata know if the pace is too fast or too slow, and the lead Miata should make the appropriate adjustment.
   
   

As a Member and as a Participant of the Maritime Miata Club events and activities, I (WE) agree to obey all traffic laws, and set a positive example for other drivers. I (WE) acknowledge that any driving event, involves a certain amount of danger and risk. I (WE) will not hold the Maritime Miata Club, its' Officers, Members or assigns responsible for any accident, mishap, or injury that may occur during any Meeting, Event or Activity, during travel proceeding or following such Meeting, Event or Activity.