How to drive in the city if you are from the countryside
Driving in the city can be problematic if you are used to the countryside. Plan your route in advance and use good driving techniques to make your trip easier.
If you're from the countryside, you're probably more familiar with driving in light traffic at a more relaxed pace than driving on the fast, busy roads of urban centers. You may even be afraid of the time when you have to go to the city. But there are certain things that may require a trip to the metropolis:
- legal aid
- Major league sporting events
- Medical Specialists
- Specialty shops
Whether it's for one of these reasons or some other reason, here are some tips on how to make your city trip a little more enjoyable.
Part 1 of 2: Preparing for the trip
If you prepare for a trip to the city, you should have a much more driving experience.
Step 1. Plan your itinerary the day before. Use Google Maps to get directions for your trip.
If you need to make more than one stop, plan the order in which you will travel to each stop.
Get directions between each stop for easy navigation.
Step 2: Start Your Journey Well Rested. Getting a good night's sleep the night before your trip will help you stay calmer when the stress of city driving kicks in; this is especially important if you know city driving is a concern for you.
Make sure you get up well before you have to leave. If you're in a rush to complete the last tasks, you'll be stressed before you even get in the car.
Step 3: Prepare your car. Avoid distractions while you are in a busy city.
If you need to fill up before you leave, do so the day before and check your fluids to make sure they are full.
If you expect inclement weather, add washer fluid and bring an extra pitcher with you.
If you need to check your car before driving to the city, an AvtoTachki certified mechanic can do it for you.
Part 2 of 2: Using Safe Driving Practices
Driving in a metropolis is very different from driving in the countryside. More stoplights, more lanes, overpasses, underpasses, ramps and more. No matter where you are heading in the city, proper driving will keep you safe.
Step 1: Plan Your Moves Ahead. In a dense stream of traffic, it is not so easy to cross several lanes.
When you know your turn is coming up in a block or two, move to the appropriate lane. Do not attempt to turn from any lane other than the designated turn lane.
If you can't cross over to turn, it's better to keep going straight to the next turn and go back or around the block than to interfere with traffic by swerving out of the wrong lane.
Step 2: Drive at the same speed as other vehicles. Go with the flow and you and other drivers will not be disappointed. If you are driving slower than other vehicles, you will be a potential obstacle that could lead to an accident.
If you are not comfortable traveling at the same speed as other vehicles, it may be better to plan a route that does not include major streets.
Step 3: Always signal your intentions. Other drivers need to know where you plan to be.
When you need to change lanes or turn, signal at least 10 vehicle lengths in advance.
Maintain speed when changing lanes and keep your lights on until the lane change or turn is completed.
Step 4: Be polite to other drivers. Drive confidently and assertively, but let others also move in traffic.
Forbidding anyone to pass you or enter your lane is dangerous and could result in an accident.
Wave your hand when someone lets you in, if it's safe to take your hand off the wheel.
When you drive through the metropolis, there are distractions everywhere. Do your best to focus on the road until you reach your destination. If you end up getting flustered, find a safe place to stop and relax.
