How can I be a better driver in the city?

Question

I come from a very rural area and I am quite used to driving there, but now for the first time I am having to drive in a city. I get very nervous sometimes, and I wonder if I am messing up. Does anyone have any tips on driving in an urban environment?

Answer 1

If you are driving on the interstate try at least do the speed limit if not a little more.  Stay in the middle lane and keep up with the flow of traffic.  Don't get in the fast lane unless you have to.  If you do, get in and pass then get back out.

If you are doing the speed limit there will still be people who pass you like you are standing still.  That's just the way THEY are.  

If you are driving on city streets, make sure that you know your route and get into the lane that you need to be in way before you get there.

As stupid as this might sound, don't use your turn signal until you are ready to turn or someone will cut you off.

When I say THEY, I mean the people that normally drive in city traffic.  They are alot more agressive drivers because they have to be.

Answer 2

The first and most important thing is to remain calm and attentive.  City traffic can change on a dime, so it's important that you pay close attention to what you're doing and not get distracted by cell phones, eating, combing hair, etc.  If you are frazzled you are not as likely to respond quickly and appropriately as needed.

Allow plenty of time to arrive at your destination so that you don't panic when traffic is heavy.  

Leave as much space between your vehicle and the one in front of you as you reasonably can to allow you to stop in time if the other driver should slam on his brakes for some reason.

Don't speed.  That will not only increase your safety but will have the side benefit of increasing your gas mileage.

Answer 3

Know where you're going in advance.  Study a map.  Generate good directions.

If you make a wrong turn, don't panic.  You may not be able to turn around right away, but you can usually keep making right turns to get back on track.

Except maybe Boston.  None of this works in Boston.  You need to know which way all the one way streets are.  There's a one way street that leads to a river.  What are you supposed to do when you get to the river?  Stop the car, then panic.

Fortunately, Boston has good public transit.

Answer 4

pretend your not in the city just think your some were else.just block out the car and the noises