The behavior you described, where someone stops at a red light with plenty of room in front of them, is a common driving phenomenon. There could be various reasons why people do this, and it's essential to consider these factors before making assumptions or getting frustrated with other drivers.
Habit: Some drivers may develop the habit of stopping at a certain distance from the vehicle in front of them, regardless of whether there is ample space available. Habits are hard to break, and even if there's room for another car, they may not change their behavior.
Comfort zone: Some drivers feel more comfortable leaving extra space in front of them, even at red lights. They might do this to avoid feeling crowded or to have a buffer zone in case the car in front suddenly rolls backward.
Avoiding tailgating: In heavy traffic or aggressive driving situations, drivers may intentionally leave extra space in front to prevent others from tailgating or getting too close to their vehicle.
Defensive driving: Some drivers practice defensive driving, which involves maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles to have more reaction time in case of emergencies.
Lack of awareness: Occasionally, drivers may not be fully aware of the space they have in front of them and simply stop where they feel comfortable, without considering if another car could fit.
Misunderstanding traffic rules: Some drivers might not have a clear understanding of the rules related to stopping distance at red lights or may not be familiar with the concept of leaving room for other cars.
It's important to remember that everyone has different driving habits and experiences, and the behavior you observed might be due to any of the reasons mentioned above. It's always a good idea to stay patient and avoid engaging in confrontations with other drivers on the road, as such situations can escalate and lead to dangerous outcomes. Defensive driving, patience, and understanding can go a long way in promoting road safety for everyone.