The Noobs' Guide to Getting Decent(er) Autos

It's a pain to get screwed by auto drivers. I mean you never know when a mad one hits you or when the meter shows 100 when it should show 60! Here are some tips that give you a better chance at getting a sane auto driver.

• Do NOT even bother going near auto drivers who are just standing around in the 'auto stand'. Especially when the auto stand isn't fast moving. This means the fellow is a lazy a-hole and he will screw you, ask you for ridiculous amounts of money, start fights over 10 rupees and what not.
• Do NOT get into autos who have big speakers. These auto drivers need high income to support their speakers and frankly you shouldn't care unless you like listening to blasting "Allele thuntu kanna sundari" or some other recent kannada super hit song.
• Do NOT get into autos or even negotiate if the auto driver asks for extra money in broad daylight. Just say no, don't even bother negotiating. You may win now, but you will get screwed later.
• Do get into autos who are roaming the streets looking for people. These are the hard workers and will give you a fairer price.
• When naming the place, don't name some landmark close to where you want. If you do, state clearly so. Otherwise you might find yourself stranded 400 meters from where you want to be. 
• State clearly the route you want him to take. Otherwise, prepare for a city tour. Don't bother asking him about the route, he'll take whatever he wants. 
• If the guy seems friendly, and you will need some bargaining power(late nights), try to have a chat with the dude. Comment about the rash drivers or the annoying police or the muslims! Whatever will get you connected with the driver. It'll shave off 10 or 20 bucks off the double/triple/one and half. 
• If the meter is flying, either you didn't follow the above principles, or you're just plain unlucky. You can get out of the auto, or continue to get screwed. You should try the former. The general rule is more than 30% extra on the actual price is getting fucked. Most meters have about 15% extra 'mileage'. 
• And do not annoy the auto driver unless you want an ugly crazed fight in the middle of the road.