How Can I Safely Drive in a Busy City?
September 30, 2020
A suburban driver may be overwhelmed when they drive in a city for the first time. Philadelphia and the surrounding boroughs can be a different driving experience, even for the most experienced driver. Some important driving safety tips include the following:
Plan Ahead and Leave Extra Time
Planning ahead is key because it is always best to avoid rush hour traffic if it is possible. Rush hour in many cities is usually around 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., and then again from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Drivers who must travel between these time periods should leave extra time for unexpected traffic. This allows drivers to remain calm while driving.
Practice Patience
City driving is different than highway or suburban driving because there might be more congested areas or unexpected traffic jams due to police activity or hazards in the streets that cannot be avoided. Drivers should be prepared for slow progress despite being in a fast-paced city.
Follow the Traffic Lights
People who are not used to city driving may run red lights and expect everything to be fine, but this may not always be the case. Slowing down for the yellow light in advance can help avoid running a red light or having a close call with a pedestrian.
Stay in the Right Lane
Drivers who are new to city driving should stay in the right lanes since the slower traffic and more cautious drivers will likely be in the right lanes of the city.
Be Aware of Cyclists
Cyclists often complain about being hit by driver or passenger doors. Drivers and passengers should always take a quick look to ensure that no cyclists could be struck while opening doors. Additionally, drivers must know that they must share the road with cyclists as well. Determining whether a cyclist is turning next to the vehicle is important.
Be Extra Cautious Around Pedestrians
A driver must stop or yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk. Drivers should also be mindful of adults pushing strollers or other carts on wheels that can be ahead of the pedestrian. Leaving extra space for small children who may not proceed into the crosswalk as expected is always good practice as well.
Reduce Distractions
If a driver is used to relying on a navigational device, it is a good idea to become familiar with the route beforehand so the device is not a distraction.
A driver may be used to having a phone conversation, watching the navigational system, and paying attention to passengers while driving. However, all distractions should be avoided. City driving may prove more challenging, and reducing the amount of distractions can help avoid distracted driving car accidents.
If one is involved in a car collision in the city, they should speak to a lawyer. A lawyer will assist the victim with a personal injury claim.
Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers at Nerenberg Law Associates, P.C. Protect Hurt Car Accident Victims
Drivers must be cautious when driving in busy cities. If you were hurt in a car accident, our Philadelphia car accident lawyers at Nerenberg Law Associates, P.C. can help you. We will assess your case and help you get compensation. Contact us online or call us at 215-569-9100 for a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia, we serve clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey.