You’ve seen them before.

We drivers have different “looks” and mannerisms when behind the wheel of a car; faces that can be affected by our mood, the way we drive, the road conditions, practically anything really. Here are 12 of them.

WARNING: The following are stereotypical observations meant to be read lightheartedly and not to be taken seriously. If you happen to fit into any of these “looks”, well, you’re not the only one.

THE VIN DIESEL

Remember the first Fast and the Furious? Well, Vin Diesel can almost file a patent for that look. It is characterized by having the seat as far as possible from the steering wheel, backrest leaned back, chin up with pouty lips, face looking as arrogant as possible with one arm stretched out to the top of the wheel whilst flexing every available muscle in it. Can also be called The Street Racer or The I’m-Gonna-Smoke-Your-Car look when sitting at a stoplight, next to another modified ride.

THE BEWILDERED

Typical of newbie drivers. When getting behind the wheel of a car for the first time and/or times, some tend to have the bewildered, wide-eyed look, and often have the tendency to emit ADHD characteristics by scanning the road by snapping his head in every direction possible. Can also be called The Newbie.

THE LADY DRIVER

A look that can be associated with lady drivers, it usually involves having to sit unusually close to the steering wheel with a throw pillow or two to prop up the driver’s height. Other tendencies an unusual pace and a rather straight face. Also, shoes and/or sandals are optional.

THE SMOKER

Easy enough to understand. Smokers have the tendency to roll down the window and/or windows, and hang their arm out with their lit Marlboros in between their fingers. Can be combined with any of the other looks in this list, though more often than not is associated with The Vin Diesel.

THE DOGGIE DINNER BOWL

This look isn’t exactly associated with driving, but is quite common amongst drivers when being apprehended by law for most traffic violations. While some opt to argue with traffic cops, some do tend to plead, and fire off this look to convey genuine remorse for running a red light and/or running the old lady over. Tears are optional, but often increases effectiveness.

THE RACECAR DRIVER

Contrary to popular belief that racers use The Vin Diesel, a true racecar driver sits quite close to the steering wheel with the seat’s back relatively upright and a 40-45 degree angle on his arms. This is to ensure maximum control in most driving situations. This is the rarest to see on city streets.

THE EYE-CONTACT-AVOIDER

Most common amongst inconsiderate drivers after pulling off a rather dangerous, arrogant or just plain inconsiderate maneuver (i.e. lane change in traffic). The driver of said vehicle tends to try to avoid eye contact with those around him by suddenly just looking straight (like a horse), begins to text or randomly adjusts the stereo’s volume. Effective when trying not to see the various piercing dagger looks and/or the middle finger/s that you’re being given.

THE MANONG DRIVER

Most common amongst public utility vehicle drivers. Common attributes include sitting at an angle askew, relative to the steering wheel for jeepney drivers, the hands and forearms resting on the steering wheel, and double pumps the clutch and/or brakes just to get them to work. Can also include holding up the hand and/or fingers on the windshield to indicate how many seats are left. Small white towel on the shoulder optional.

THE TRUCKER

As the name suggests, this looks is most common amongst truck drivers. This is generally in reference to the way they steer, as they look like they’ve got a huge flat plate for a steering wheel. Can also be used by bus drivers.

THE BOBBLE HEAD

Can also be called The Boom Box, as this look is mostly associated with vehicles that have souped up audio systems, with the driver’s head bobbling up and down (like a bobble head toy) to match the rhythm and beats. The look can also expand to all other passengers in the said vehicle.

THE GET-A-ROOM

Mostly associated with couples, this look is characterized by visible acts of PDA, or Public Displays of Affection. Typically seen on cars without window film tints, and acts can range from a simple kiss to more torrid actions best kept between yourselves. If you’re one of these, then yes, you should get a room, lest you become the next Internet sensation.

THE SMILE

A display of pure enjoyment, this look is one of the most uncommon on the road, as most of us tend to have forgotten that driving is not just a means to get from A to B or as a mere chore, but something enjoyable and fun as well. So, next time you’re out on the road, smile a bit more. Maybe it’ll make that day a little better.

Tags: drive, driver, driving expressions, mannerisms, road, Vin Diesel