Big cities are hotspots for car accidents, as there are often people driving sleepy, drunk, or distracted. If you want to be safe driving in the city, it’s important that you follow the rules of the road. However, here are a few more tips to guarantee your safety:
- • Learn the route — It’s worth spending a few minutes beforehand learning the way to your destination. Learn which exits to take, when to turn, etc. That way, you’ll spend less time looking at your GPS and more time watching the road.
- • Be wary of cyclists and pedestrians — You never know what people will do if they’re in a hurry! They may run or cycle across the road even if there’s no crosswalk. Always keep an eye out for people on foot or bike.
- • Watch for one-way streets — Keep an eye out for signs that say “One Way”. The last thing you want is to get ticketed or in an accident for going down the wrong street. Worse, if you swerve at the last minute to avoid going down the street, you can cause an accident.
- • Learn to park properly — Parallel parking is a vital skill if you are going to drive, live, and work in a city. If you don’t learn how to do it right, you will make it harder to find parking–meaning more time spent driving around. Plus, improperly parked cars have a higher risk of being towed or sideswiped.
- • Always carry change — If you need to park in a big city, chances are you’re going to have to feed a meter. Carry a few dollars’ worth of quarters and dimes on you (or in your car) at all times. It’s the best and easiest way to park without worrying that your car will get towed.
- • Research local laws — Make sure that you know the local (state and city) speed limit for city streets, country roads, and highways. Stick to the speed limit, even if people around you are speeding.
- • Be defensive — When driving, keep an eye on the cars in front, behind, and beside you. You never know what they’re going to do, so be prepared to avoid anything that could lead to a collision. Defensive driving is the key to driving safety.
- • Avoid stress — If you’re stressed because you worry you’ll be late, you’re far more likely to get into an accident. Avoid that stress and hurry, and take your time reaching your destination. Leave earlier if you have to, but never rush. Speed kills!
- • Keep your car in good condition — The last thing you want is to get in an accident because of faulty brakes, crappy tires, or an improperly-maintained engine. Keep your car in good running condition, and it will keep you safe as you drive!