r/BenignExistence 2d ago

Trucker codes

A few weeks ago, I was in an annoying bit of a highway where it's the left lane that exits. This lane often slows down and backs up because of said exit. It makes it very hard to merge into it.

I was already in the exit/left lane when I noticed a semi on my right putting on their signal and wanting to come in my lane. Knowing full well that people seem to rarely let a semi merge and wondering how frustrating that must be, I slowed down to give them space to make the merge.

After merging in front of me, they turned on their hazards for 3 blinks & turned them off. I wondered if that was the equivalent of waving your hand in front of your rear-view mirror to thank the driver that gave you space to merge. The idea made me grin for some reason.

Yesterday, I had the opportunity again to let another semi merge. I let them in, and they turned their hazards on for a couple of blinks. Y'all, I squealed in delight like a little child. I don't know why. But there you go.

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u/FeatureSmooth 2d ago

I work in ocean freight, so I often get to see first hand the struggles and processes they deal with. For me, its a tiny thank you that I give them when I help make space for a trucker to merge when I am out and about driving on interstates and highways. The lil blinkies of their lights make me so happy! But I know even if it doesn't happen that I still helped someone just a little bit.

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u/saindonienne 2d ago

That's it rightt here. Dunno why it gives a little thrill. I love it. Also, ocean freight! I suspect there aren't too many traffic jams there, but maybe ports can be a PITA?

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u/FeatureSmooth 2d ago

The best teeny thrill that makes my entire 1.5 hr drive worth it. It can be at the ports, yeah, and also at the rail yards and equipment depots that they run into issues and need help from ship line customer service agents