There are a few different types of car owners. Some treat their vehicles like their most prized possessions, spending hours washing and waxing them every week. They might not allow even a crumb of food inside or any beverages that aren’t water, and they may have nightmares about having to park under a tree full of birds.
On the other hand, some drivers view their car as their best friend. They do everything together, so there’s no reason not to plaster the thing in stickers, enjoy a fast food meal inside every now and then, and take the car to the beach to see a beautiful sunset. And the Bumper Stickers subreddit is definitely dedicated to celebrating those in the second camp.
According to one survey, 60% of drivers in the United States have at least one bumper sticker on their car. And among those who hadn’t adorned their vehicles, a quarter of drivers said it was only because they hadn’t yet found the perfect sticker to represent them. When it comes to what kinds of stickers drivers put on their vehicles, the sky’s the limit.
Some choose to put funny quotes that will entertain other drivers, while others feel the need to make strong political statements. Some bumper stickers are a way to display niche interests, hobbies, or musical tastes, while others use their cars as an opportunity to publicize their religious beliefs. Some parents even decide to put a sticker for each of their children or warn others that there’s a “Baby on Board!”
There are plenty of reasons why someone might choose to adorn their car in bumper stickers. Perhaps they have a common vehicle, and they’re tired of being unable to spot it in a crowded parking lot. Or maybe they aren’t brave enough to commit to a tattoo, but a sticker on their car will satisfy the same craving. And some do so to advertise for their business. Why not put the logo and phone number on your vehicle? It might boost sales!
Having some funny bumper stickers on your car is also a great way to make other drivers smile. Let’s face it, driving can be extremely monotonous, especially if you have a long commute every day. Spotting anything out of the ordinary, especially if it’s amusing, might just make your day. And if you’re tired of other drivers tailgating you, the best way to convince them to back off might be by putting a bumper sticker that encourages them to keep their distance.
As much fun as bumper stickers can be, though, some people warn that it might not be wise to reveal too much information about yourself through the stickers on your car. Unfortunately, we can’t always trust strangers. And letting someone know your political views might fuel their road rage against you. Meanwhile, telling them how many kids you have, where you went to college, etc., might give them information to help defraud you. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
One survey even found that drivers are significantly more likely to honk at vehicles displaying support for an opposing political party than those who express support for the same party. Meanwhile, drivers are also less likely to honk at cars with bumper stickers expressing the driver’s love for dogs. But even when drivers support the same political party, that doesn’t garner them any more sympathy from other drivers if they choose to make poor or dangerous decisions on the road. So be careful who you cut off in traffic!
