4 Important Tips for Driving in Busy Cities and Avoiding Accidents
City driving presents one of the most challenging driving experiences for any driver, even the most experienced. But if it is your first time driving in a big city, the whole experience can be way more challenging.
So if you have plans to drive through a big city for work or any other reason, you may need to understand the dynamics of city driving to make your driving experience less stressful. But worry not, as this guide focuses on city driving, including what makes it so complex and how to avoid accidents.
Why Do Car Accidents Typically Happen in Big Cities, e.g., Phoenix
The 2020 statistics placed Phoenix fifth on the list of most populous cities in the US. It follows then that the roads in Phoenix are by no means safe thanks to the city’s high population.
The main reasons why driving in a city like Phoenix is particularly dangerous are due to heavy traffic and limited spaces. The many pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, one-way streets, poor visibility, and buses also make things worse.
Even with the challenges of city driving, drivers are responsible for driving safely. While you could try your best to follow the rules to avoid trouble, other drivers may not, so there is no guarantee that you will not get in an accident. If you are hit by another driver and suffer injuries, it would be best to talk to a personal injury lawyer to help you recover your damages. Experienced personal injury attorneys know how to negotiate with insurance companies to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Tips for Driving in Big Cities
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Be Aware of Your Surrounding
Many things happen in big cities, including pedestrians trying to cross the road even on undesignated crossings, ongoing constructions, children crossing the road, etc. Being aware of your surroundings helps you adjust your driving to match your environment.
It is also extremely important to pay close attention to traffic lights. You can get away with running a fresh red light in a small city, although it could still get you in trouble if caught.
But in big cities, such a move can be extremely dangerous. Therefore, besides paying attention to the warning signs, ensure that you follow standard traffic light rules. If you are ever accused for violating the traffic rules, traffic lawyers can potentially lessen the negative consequences for you.
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Avoid Rush Hours
Typically, traffic is at its peak on metropolitan roadways from around 7:00 am to 9:00 am and 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. If you do not have a reason to get somewhere during these rush hours, it is best to avoid being on the road, as driving can be overwhelming.
Besides increased traffic, driving through congested traffic can sometimes translate to high fuel consumption. On top of that, you have to deal with more frustrations, take longer to reach your destination, and have a high probability of encountering an aggressive driver.
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Be Patient
High-density traffic can be very frustrating, especially for anyone who has not been used to it or when in a hurry to get somewhere. Everybody else is looking to get out of there as much as you do, meaning you have to deal with drivers cutting you off and pedestrians jumping right in front of your vehicle.
The best you can do is keep calm and avoid getting worked up when other drivers or road users do something you do not like. Getting angry can cause you to drive aggressively, increasing your chances of getting in an accident.
When it comes to truck accidents, the crashes are more severe than two or more people getting hit by a vehicle. If you are ever injured in a truck accident, immediately call a fresno trucking accident attorney for legal help.
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Use Your GPS
Thanks to technology, you can drive to any destination. All you need is to use your vehicle’s GPS. Besides giving direction, GPS devices also recommend routes with less traffic.
While recommended routes may be longer, it may be a price you may want to pay in exchange for getting to your destination faster.