cynicated.com

While driving to work this morning, I passed a large construction sign on the side of the road. You know the type – the ones that are actually a trailer and have large blinking lights spelling out words. They are usually orange in color, at least in places I’ve lived. The sign itself isn’t really interesting as they are everywhere. However, this particular sign stood out in my memory for its content. “STAY ALERT” All capital letters, nothing else. No flashing warning about men working, no “merge left” instructions. Simply the command to stay alert while driving a car.

Now please don’t get me wrong. I find this advice to be spot on. However, the sign does beg the question as to why? Why exactly do motorists need to be reminded to keep their eyes open and look where they are going? What’s more, presumably the drivers who need the warning the most, the ones who are not alert, are the ones who will miss out on the message as they drive merrily along in their non-alert stupor.