#RidingShotgun #PassengerSeat #CallingShotgun
Have you ever found yourself in a car with your friends or family, eagerly waiting to call “shotgun” and secure the coveted front passenger seat? The age-old tradition of “calling shotgun” has been a source of contention and excitement for generations. But what’s the soonest you can call “shotgun” when riding as a passenger?
In this article, we’ll delve into the history of calling shotgun, the etiquette of claiming the front seat, and the unwritten rules that govern this time-honored tradition. So buckle up, and let’s dive into the world of calling shotgun!
The History of Calling Shotgun 🚗
The origins of calling shotgun can be traced back to the Wild West, where the term “riding shotgun” referred to the act of guarding a stagecoach from potential threats. The person sitting next to the driver was responsible for fending off bandits and ensuring the safety of the passengers and cargo.
Fast forward to modern times, and calling shotgun has evolved into a lighthearted way of claiming the front passenger seat in a vehicle. It’s a game of wit and speed, with everyone vying to be the first to shout “shotgun” and secure the best spot in the car.
Etiquette of Calling Shotgun 🚘
While calling shotgun may seem like a simple act of declaring your intent to sit in the front seat, there are actually unwritten rules and etiquette that govern this process. Here are some key points to keep in mind when it comes to calling shotgun:
1. Be respectful: The rules of calling shotgun should be approached with respect and fairness. It’s important to give everyone an equal chance to claim the front seat, without resorting to aggressive behavior or unfair tactics.
2. Timing is everything: The soonest you can call shotgun is usually when the car is in sight or within a reasonable distance. Jumping the gun and calling shotgun too early, such as when the car is still miles away, is generally frowned upon.
3. Consensus and compromise: In some cases, it may be necessary to come to a democratic decision regarding who gets to sit in the front seat. If there’s a disagreement, consider rotating the privilege or finding a fair compromise that works for everyone.
4. Honoring previous claims: If someone has already called shotgun for the outward journey, it’s important to honor their claim for the return trip. This ensures that everyone has an opportunity to enjoy the front seat at some point.
Examples of Shotgun Etiquette in Action 🚖
To illustrate the etiquette of calling shotgun, let’s consider a scenario involving a group of friends getting ready to head out on a road trip:
1. Scenario 1: As the group approaches the parked car, Sarah notices it first and quickly calls “shotgun.” Her friends, respecting the unwritten rules, accept her claim without protest.
2. Scenario 2: During a different outing, Alex realizes that he’s called shotgun for the last few car rides. In the spirit of fairness, he suggests that his friend, Emily, take the front seat this time. The group agrees, and everyone is happy with the arrangement.
3. Scenario 3: In a larger group setting, where multiple people are vying for the front seat, a democratic approach is taken. The group collectively decides to rotate the privilege of calling shotgun for each leg of the journey, ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to enjoy the front seat.
The Art of Calling Shotgun: Tips and Strategies 🛣️
As with any competitive endeavor, there are tips and strategies that can increase your chances of successfully calling shotgun. Here are some pointers to consider:
1. Stay alert: Keep an eye out for the car and be ready to act quickly when it comes into view. Being the first to spot the vehicle can give you a head start in calling shotgun.
2. Use assertive but polite language: When calling shotgun, be assertive in your claim, but refrain from being overly aggressive or confrontational. A simple “shotgun” or “I call shotgun” should be sufficient.
3. Understand the rules: Familiarize yourself with the etiquette and unwritten rules of calling shotgun to ensure that you’re playing the game fairly and respectfully.
4. Be gracious in defeat: If someone else beats you to calling shotgun, accept the decision gracefully and look forward to the next opportunity.
Ultimately, the art of calling shotgun is about balancing fun and fairness, and embracing the lighthearted competition that comes with claiming the front passenger seat. By following the unwritten rules and approaching the process with respect and consideration, everyone can enjoy the excitement of calling shotgun without any unnecessary conflicts.
In conclusion, the soonest you can call “shotgun” when riding as a passenger is usually when the car is in sight or within a reasonable distance. By understanding the history, etiquette, and strategies of calling shotgun, you can engage in this time-honored tradition with a sense of camaraderie and good sportsmanship. Happy travels, and may the best “shotgunner” win! 🚗
When the car is within sight
Usually when you can see the car
within unobstructed visual sight of the vehicle and outside of the previous location (ie: can’t be called sitting inside a restaurant as you pay your tab just because you can see the car, only once you’ve left the restaurant and are able to see the vehicle without looking through a window or other such barrier)
must be audible enough for at least one other to hear
calling it can be voided by girlfriend/boyfriend or really tall people (over 6ft 4in)
calling shotgun is a verbally binding agreement to help navigate and remain awake to keep driver company
When someone says let’s head out
when you can see the car
When you see the vehicle
Driver’s rules.
That shit don’t fly with me. Tallest up front.
Car and driver are within sight.
Can’t call that shit in the house before you can see the car. Can’t rush out first and call it before anyone else can get out there.
Heading out the front door counts.
Shotgun! Never too early.
As soon as the ride is announced.
As soon as the ride is announced/discussed with all potential shotgunners together.
My mom made us alternate days and it was a genius move.
I once called it from the top of a ski run in New Zealand, from which I could see our car parked in the carpark. I confirmed beforehand with both the driver and the other passenger that it was going to be our last run so we we’re commencing our trip to the car. I then called “shotgun” and was awarded the front seat – albeit begrudgingly – because I was technically correct (as per our previously agreed upon rules for that trip.)
(ahem)
THE SHOTGUN RULES version 1.1
The rules listed below apply to the calling of Shotgun (the passenger seat) in an automobile. These rules are definitive and binding.
Section I
The Basic Rules
1. In order to call Shotgun, the caller must pronounce the word “Shotgun” in a clear voice. This call must be heard and acknowledged by the driver. The other occupants of the vehicle need not hear the call as long as the driver verifies the call.
2. Shotgun may only be called if all occupants of the vehicle are outside and on the way to said vehicle.
3. Early calls are strictly prohibited. Shotgun may only be called while walking toward the vehicle and only applies to the drive immediately forthcoming. Shotgun can never be called while inside a vehicle or still technically on the way to the first location. For example, one can not get out of a vehicle and call Shotgun for the return journey.
4. The driver has final say in all ties and disputes. The driver has the right to suspend or remove all shotgun privileges from one or more persons.
Section II
Special Cases
These special exceptions to the rules above should be considered in the order presented; the case listed first will take precedence over any of the cases beneath it, when applicable.
1. In the instance that the normal driver of a vehicle is drunk or otherwise unable to perform their duties as driver, then he/she is automatically given Shotgun.
2. If the instance that the person who actually owns the vehicle is not driving, then he/she is automatically given Shotgun, unless they decline.
3. In the instance the the driver’s spouse, lover, partner, or date for the evening is going to accompany the group, he/she is automatically given Shotgun, unless they decline.
4. In the instance that one of the passengers may become so ill during the course of the journey that the other occupants feel he/she will toss their cookies, then the ill person should be given Shotgun to make appropriate use of the window.
5. In the instance that only one person knows how to get to a given location and this person is not the driver, then as the designated navigator for the group they automatically get Shotgun, unless they decline.
6. In the instance that one of the occupants is too wide or tall to fit comfortably in the back seat, then the driver may show mercy and award Shotgun to the genetic misfit. Alternatively, the driver and other passengers may continually taunt the poor fellow as they make a three hour trip with him crammed in the back.
Section III
The Survival of the Fittest Rule
1. If the driver so wishes, he/she may institute the Survival of the Fittest Rule on the process of calling Shotgun. In this case all rules, excepting I-4, are suspended and the passenger seat is occupied by whoever can take it by force.
2. The driver must announce the institution of the Survival of the Fittest Rule with reasonable warning to all passengers. This clause reduces the amount of blood lost by passengers and the damage done to the vehicle.
Please follow the above rules to the best of your ability. If there are any arguments or exceptions not covered in these rules, please refer to rule I-4.
Note – this comes from the Airborne Early Warning Association, so you know it’s legitimate.
https://www.aewa.org/Library/shotgun.html
More advanced legislation is here:
https://www.shotgunrules.com/
Our rule growing up was as soon as everyone is outside whether the car is in sight or not. Driver can always overrule all outcomes. So if they want someone in particular to ride up front for whatever reason, it’s their decision. Always.
You must have line of sight to the car.
When movement towards the car starts as determined by the driver.
once the car is in sight and it is reset if light of sight is broken (this part caused a decent argument when I tried to call it from the top of an amusement park ride
At minimum you must be able to see the car.
As soon as the person who owns the car mentions we are going somewhere.
When the car is in sight and the drivers is moving toward the car.
Boundaries are needed.
You have to be able to see the vehicle AND be on your way to the vehicle. No calling shotgun from inside or from a balcony.
For me it was when we’re en route to the vehicle and leaving whatever home or location we were in.
From the fetus
After everyone is out the door, and the car is in sight
Car has to be in sight.
Real question is when is the right time to call shotgun. If you call too early it might not count. You have to call it right when people are walking to the car to get in.
Two weeks
As soon as someone mentions going somewhere.
Soon as car is in sight
Car has to be in sight
Must be outside, not under a roof, and the driver has to hear you. I don’t make the rules, but that’s the rules
Outside and within sight. Or when you get into the garage depending on where you are parked.
Line of sight while outside and heading somewhere.
We had a few other rules depending on who was driving.
1. Only above a certain age could call it.
2. Fail at being a good Copilot and lose it for 3 weeks.
3. Rare, but “I get my seat back” allowable
When the car is within sight, with no barrier in between such as glass or plastic
What does this even mean??
My dad would shout “driver.” That was the cue.
I made the rule that they had to touch the vehicle and call shotgun.
As soon as it’s determined that we’re going somewhere
As soon as intent for the trip is voiced.
Typically the driver or the leader of the trip will announce and notify the participants. Common for the lead to notify the most critical first and also has the authority to deny or remove a participant from shotgun or even nominate a shotgunner.
Once you can see the car
No calling shotgun until you can see the car.
No calling shotgun outside of the driver’s earshot.
No calling shotgun until you are actually heading to the car for a journey.
car in sight for all parties