Gridlock in Hanoi

Hanoi drivers are arguably the worst in Vietnam. I say this with some authority because I’ve been driving here for over 20 years. It’s the transportation equivalent of social Darwinism. Cutthroat competition reigns supreme. As I’m fond of saying, sharks and pit bulls driving cars, trucks, tuk-tuks, buses, and motorbikes. No mercy or courtesy just grab the space if you can and to hell with everyone else. I, Me, My, Mine, Myself. One caveat: As in other countries, women are more cautious and respectful than other drivers.

Yes, it’s the population density and sheer number of vehicles on the road but it’s also the mentality, which has changed over the years. Take no prisoners, pardon the nasty wartime expression. Usually, there are cops directing traffic at this location. Not that particular morning. Just traffic coming from six different directions, “business as usual,” and the need to have the patience of Job.

Image created by ChatGPT based on my descriptive prompt. This is what it seems like at times.

On the bright side, I have perfected defensive and offensive driving, and I ALWAYS expect the unexpected. Truth be told, I don’t drive every day. Thanks to the Internet, I can work from home from time to time. Thank God for small mercies.

Another positive is the proliferation of AI cameras in key locations, which has forced naughty drivers to behave themselves or pay hefty fines. In general, cooperation and consensus are hallmarks of Vietnamese culture. On the road all bets are off.

Postscript: I recently experienced this while crossing a very busy street near my Hanoi office. That’s a pretty accurate rendering of his facial expression. Usually, a motorbike driver will avoid you. Not this this one. I yelled at the punk for what that was worth.