Well, I have to get around somehow, right? Actually, not. I have my bike and the public transit system here is pretty dreamy, but I have put in my fair share amount of time behind the wheel here in my new home. And let me tell you, it's a different animal...so, how's about I share with you my humorous and infuriating observations?
We drive on the right side of the road, just like in the good ole USofA, so no difference there. Israelis typically start driving from 18 years of age and up, some not getting their license until after they've completed the army, putting them closer to age 21. The process of getting this coveted license is quite pricey, too. The average Israeli needs about 28 lessons that cost about $25 a pop. Now, if you're especially bad, you will need more lessons, and that is all up to the driving instructor. After you've completed your lessons, you have to run through a ton of bureaucratic bullshit to get your paperwork ready for the test. This is where I jumped into the equation, since I have 14 years of driving experience from the US. Then, you must schedule a test with the DMV and pay about $125 or more for the test. I'm still waiting for my test spot...hopefully that will come soon. Most native Israelis I have talked to failed their first test, even the competent ones, as it seems that this is an easy way for the DMV to make more money. However, I have heard and I pray that new immigrants are given an easier time and are usually passed on their first try, notwithstanding any major issues within the test.
You would think that with all this time and money invested in driving lessons and testing that Israelis would be excellent drivers. I sadly must share with you that this is not the case. An Israeli's driving habit directly mirrors their character - loud, brash, dominate, and will do anything to get ahead. People scream, people honk, people cut you off, and this is all just part in parcel for the ride on our fair streets here.
Now, for some differences. First of all, if a street has two or more lanes DON'T EVER drive in the far right lane. While it is a lane of traffic, it almost always turns into a row of parking spots, as well. No signage, no warning, just suddenly, a line of cars blocking your way.
Second, we have traffic circles here. No four-way stops. My theory is that Israelis just wouldn't have the patience, but a recent episode of Myth Busters also explained that traffic circles are also more efficient. Which is definitely what our short-tempered culture needs. Check out the MB experiment here.
Also, be careful because there are no right turns on red in this country! I learned this the hard way when I almost gave my dear friend, Artur, a heart attack by turning right on red. Even if no one is coming, it's still illegal. If you can turn right, there is a separate, designated lane that leads you into traffic. Oy va voy if you break this rule!
Gas prices are also drastically different. At about 8 shekels a liter, we pay dearly for our gas. With the current exchange weight much more in the shekel's favor and the conversion of liters to gallons, that's about $10 a gallon, friends. We definitely consider if we can walk or take a bus or a bike before we just hop in the car.
Don't be afraid to honk, because you will get honked at back! I feel oftentimes like I am corralling a heard of cows while I'm driving, politely giving a few beeps to warn another car not to sideswipe me as he swerves chaotically through traffic or as a pedestrian hastily tries to cross the road (often illegally, as well). Gotta be on your p's and q's otherwise, you're going to get hit.
Lastly, Israeli parking leaves much to be desired. The lines on a parking spot are merely a suggestion to most folks as they just haphazardly pull their car into whatever space is available. I kid you not, I've seen a midsized sedan take up four spaces before, and that was not because they parked parallel in a perpendicular spot. They're just that lazy/rude/etc. or perhaps more people need glasses here than you can think. And we wonder why there are so many parking issues here.
So, that's about it for my assessment of driving here in Israel. I'm hoping the test won't be a nightmare and that I'll understand all the commands I'm given. Listening to my boyfriend is one thing...listening to a grumpy government work bark out orders while driving in this clusterfuck is another. Should be interesting, as are all of my adventures in this crazy land. Love to all!
