This just makes me laugh...
Dear Yahoo!:
What are the rules for calling shotgun?
Jonathan
Roselle, New Jersey
Dear Jonathan:
We haven't felt this much pressure to get an answer right since our exposé on toilet seat covers. We imagine the word "shotgun" is screamed millions of times a day, so a lot is riding on our explanation. Lucky for us, several sites go into detail on who's allowed to call what and when.
Our first stop was at The Official Shotgun Rules, a page used to promote a book (really) of the same name. The site covers just about every possible contingency, including multiple calls, re-entry, and the always controversial line-of-sight rule. It's kind of scary, but darned if it doesn't get the job done.
Another site, equally thorough, is The Shotgun Guide. We actually prefer this one, as it breaks the rules into sections. Topics include general regulations, special cases, and for Darwinists, "survival of the fittest rules." Whether you want to simply learn the basics or you're wondering if someone with crutches gets special consideration, this site has you covered.
We don't have enough space to list all the rules, but we can sum up some key points. It goes without saying that "Shotgun!" must be said loudly enough so all other passengers can hear it. The caller must be outdoors when shotgun is called (no exceptions). And shotgun is voided when the driver's significant other is a passenger. Try calling "shotgun" over someone's girlfriend and we guarantee disappointment as well as a long walk home.
What are the rules for calling shotgun?
Jonathan
Roselle, New Jersey
Dear Jonathan:
We haven't felt this much pressure to get an answer right since our exposé on toilet seat covers. We imagine the word "shotgun" is screamed millions of times a day, so a lot is riding on our explanation. Lucky for us, several sites go into detail on who's allowed to call what and when.
Our first stop was at The Official Shotgun Rules, a page used to promote a book (really) of the same name. The site covers just about every possible contingency, including multiple calls, re-entry, and the always controversial line-of-sight rule. It's kind of scary, but darned if it doesn't get the job done.
Another site, equally thorough, is The Shotgun Guide. We actually prefer this one, as it breaks the rules into sections. Topics include general regulations, special cases, and for Darwinists, "survival of the fittest rules." Whether you want to simply learn the basics or you're wondering if someone with crutches gets special consideration, this site has you covered.
We don't have enough space to list all the rules, but we can sum up some key points. It goes without saying that "Shotgun!" must be said loudly enough so all other passengers can hear it. The caller must be outdoors when shotgun is called (no exceptions). And shotgun is voided when the driver's significant other is a passenger. Try calling "shotgun" over someone's girlfriend and we guarantee disappointment as well as a long walk home.