Driving can be daunting and even a little scary when visiting the Big Apple or any other large city. New York City is notorious for its chaotic traffic, aggressive drivers, and hectic pace. But don’t let that dissuade you from experiencing all the city has to offer! With a bit of preparation and understanding of the rules of the road, you can navigate New York like a pro.
1. Familiarize yourself with the streets and avenues.
New York follows a grid system, with most streets running parallel to each other and avenues crossing them at right angles. This can be confusing for first-time visitors, so take some time to study a city map before you are behind the wheel.
For example, Brooklyn is laid out in a grid pattern with numbered streets running east to west and lettered avenues going north to south. However, Manhattan is a little different – the street numbering system changes as you cross various streets (e.g., 14th Street, 23rd Street, 34th Street). Pay attention to these changes so you don’t get lost or get in an accident. No one wants to end their trip to the city with a call to a Brooklyn car accident lawyer.
2. Obey all traffic laws and signals.
This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s essential to be aware of the unique traffic laws in New York City. For starters, you can’t turn right on a red light unless there’s a sign that says otherwise. There are also laws about honking your horn – use it sparingly, as too much honking can result in a fine. Observing the speed limit is also crucial, as the NYPD is known for issuing costly speeding tickets.
If you’re unsure about New York’s traffic laws, check out the Department of Motor Vehicles’ website before your trip.
3. Be aware of your surroundings.
New York City is full of people, cars, and obstacles, so it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings at all times.
Pedestrians
New York City is a walking city at heart, which means there are pedestrians everywhere. Be extra cautious when driving, as people may dart out into the street without warning. It’s also important to yield to pedestrians – if they have the right of way, you must let them go first.
Bicycles
Bicycles are a common sight on New York City streets. When driving, give cyclists plenty of space and never try to pass them when there’s oncoming traffic.
Construction
New York is always under construction, so the roadway often has obstacles. Construction sites require drivers to slow down and be extra cautious. Pay attention to the signs and signals in construction zones and be alert for potholes, detours, and lane closures.
4. Park in designated spots
Urban parking can be a nightmare, so it’s important to read all the signs before you park your car. In New York City, you can only park at metered spots or in garages. Be sure to feed the meter or risk a parking ticket. A helpful tip is to look for garages that offer overnight parking – this can be a lifesaver if you’re visiting the city for a few days.
5. Keep your cool.
Although driving in a big city can be stressful, staying calm behind the wheel is essential. If another driver cuts you off or honks their horn, resist the urge to honk back or make an obscene gesture. Getting angry will only worsen the situation and increase your chances of getting into an accident.
If an accident does occur, don’t panic. Stay calm and call the police. If you or anyone else is injured, seek medical attention, and consider contacting a Brooklyn car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Final thoughts
Driving in New York City can be daunting, but with some preparation, it’s easy to navigate the city like a pro. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the streets, obey all traffic laws and signals, and be aware of your surroundings. If you do all these things, you’ll surely have a safe and enjoyable trip.