Cruise Etiquette

Cruise Etiquette

Oil Slickers Society International (OSSi)

Cruise Etiquette & Expectations

This document outlines the rules and expectations for all OSSi cruises. We are a family of Volkswagen enthusiasts who roll together with respect, loyalty, and mutual support. These guidelines are based directly on our Oath - to engage with enthusiasm and respect, support fellow enthusiasts, never leave a VW behind, and act with integrity and courtesy - and our Bylaws, which emphasize civil conduct, respect for all vehicles, helping members, and keeping the group together.

Because we cruise almost exclusively in cars, we maintain single-file formation at all times. The terms Leader and Sweep are used for the designated positions. All drivers must obey every traffic law at all times. The goal is a safe, cohesive pack that reflects the best of the OSSi family.

1. Pre-Cruise Preparation

  • Arrive on time or early for the scheduled meeting. The Leader will conduct a briefing covering the route, planned stops, emergency procedures, and any specific instructions. Pay attention with no side conversations.
  • Ensure your vehicle is fully road-ready with oil topped off, adequate fuel, working lights and signals, good tires, basic tools, spare parts, and a tow strap. Inform the group in advance if your VW has any known issues that could affect the cruise.

2. What Is Not Allowed

  • Your car must have all working lights.
  • Your car must not be smoking excessively or spraying oil.
  • Your car must be able to maintain cruise speed and stop safely.
  • No alcohol, drugs, or impairing substances before or during the cruise. Drivers must remain fully alert and capable.
  • No dangerous or reckless behaviors while operating vehicle.
  • No obnoxiously loud stereos or exhaust pipes.
  • No texting or using your phone while driving.

3. Formation and Driving Rules

  • Leader and Sweep roles
    • The Leader sets the safe pace and route for the group.
    • The Sweep rides at the rear, assists any drivers who fall back, and helps keep the group together. The Sweep notifies the Leader if issues arise.
  • Single-file formation only. Stay in line and keep the group as close together as is safe, considering road conditions, speed, and traffic.
  • Maintain your position. Do not change order randomly. Pack it in tightly where safe to preserve the chain.
    • Traffic lights may break up our cruise. If the group becomes separated at a traffic light, the Leader will slow down significantly, or pull over safely (as necessary) at the earliest opportunity to allow the pack to regroup.
    • Light turns green... GO! Don't dawdle and wait! Your delay may cause a chain reaction that causes our other drivers to get caught in the next light cycle slowing down cruise progression even further.
    • Other vehicles may try to merge into the formation and break the chain. We should stay together whenever possible; however, it is OK to allow them in only when it is safe to do so.
  • Never pass or leave ahead of the Leader. Passing the Leader is a serious sign of disrespect to both the Leader and the entire group.
  • Do not pass or leap frog within formation. Unless the car in front is smoking, spraying oil, or otherwise being a hazard.
  • No rubber-banding! This is an accordion-like effect where you adjust your speed up or down instead of follwing the lead. This causes inconsistent pacing, frustration for underpowered vehicles, or folowing drivers suddenly forced close to tailgating. This creates a stretching and snapping effect, forcing everyone behind to constantly adjust speed. MAINTAIN SPEED ALWAYS!
  • If joining a moving cruise, slip into a spot within the formation.
  • If you see someone joining a moving cruise, allow them a spot to slip into.
  • Obey all traffic laws. No exceptions. This includes speed limits, signals, stopping, and yielding.
  • Traffic tickets and collisions are at your fault, and are your responsibility only.

4. Group Communication Signals

  • Use standard turn signals early and clearly.
  • If you notice another driver has left their turn signal on, use the open and close hand signal (repeated pumping motion) to alert them.
  • If you spot a police officer or marked law enforcement vehicle, pat your roof to alert the drivers behind you.

5. On-the-Road Conduct

  • HELP FIRST! If a driver has mechanical trouble, runs low on fuel, or needs assistance, the group supports them. No VW is left behind. The Sweep coordinates help, and the group stays together whenever possible.
  • Stay with the group. Do not leave the cruise without notifying the Leader or Sweep. If someone pulls over safely, the group responds accordingly unless the Leader or Sweep directs otherwise.

6. At the Destination and General Expectations

  • Cruises are typically one-way. There is usually no organized return cruise unless announced in advance.
  • Represent OSSi positively. We are a rolling example of respect, helpfulness, and VW camaraderie.
  • Leave no trace. Pack out all trash, assist with any group cleanup if applicable, and treat the locations we visit with care.

7. Violations

Violations of these rules - particularly those involving safety, disrespect, or impairment - will be addressed according to the Bylaws conduct process, which may include review by the Council and potential disciplinary action.

8. Reporting Infractions

If you witness an infraction of these rules, notify the Leader or Sweep immediately when it is safe to do so. For serious or repeated issues after the cruise, report it to the Council.

These expectations ensure every cruise is safe, enjoyable, and true to the OSSi spirit: enthusiasm and respect, strong relationships built on trust, support for fellow members, and loyalty to the family.

This is The OSSI Way on the road.
Roll safe, roll together, and support one another - no VW left behind.