How to Drive Safely in New York: Four Important Tips
It can take a while to get used to driving in different countries, cities, and areas. If you are used to driving on expressways or through small towns, it can be challenging to drive through bustling cities.
Different cities have different road rules and potential obstacles, too. So, you should become a little familiar with the driving conditions for any city you are intending to drive in.
New York City is notoriously busy and full of hazards, so you need to be extra alert when driving through The Big Apple.
Hiring a Specialist Attorney if You Are Involved in a Car Accident
Hundreds of car accidents happen in New York City every single day, which is why it is so important that you know how to drive safely in the city.
But even when you drive safely, you could potentially end up in an auto accident due to another driver’s negligence or recklessness.
If you are injured in such an accident, you should hire a specialist auto accident attorney who can help you gain the compensation you are entitled to. Many reputable lawyers offer free consultations and case evaluations. But hopefully, you will never need the services of a car accident lawyer.
You can reduce your chances of being involved in a road accident in New York by following these four important tips.
1. Look Out for Pedestrians and Cyclists
While you should always look out for pedestrians and cyclists, you need to be even more alert in New York City.
Pedestrians commonly jaywalk and cyclists often take shortcuts. New York is also full of people on scooters, people texting while walking, and people crossing the street illegally with their dogs. You could even see bikers walking dogs while riding.
So, maintain a high level of alertness at all times to ensure you do not end up in an accident with a pedestrian, cyclist, or biker.
2. Do Not Speed
You should also never speed. Speeding is one of the top causes of road accidents.
In New York City, you need to slow down even more due to the countless people and hazards that surround you both day and night.
The speed limit in much of New York City is 25 miles per hour. In school zones, the limit is 15 miles per hour. Therefore, you will probably have to drive at a much slower rate compared to what you are used to, but it is necessary.
Do not be tempted to go above the speed limit, even by a little. If you do, you are more likely to be involved in an accident.
3. Do Not Make Right Turns on Red Lights
Even though the vast majority of states in the U.S. allow right turns on red lights, it is illegal in New York City, unless there is a sign permitting right turns. Do not forget that!
If you want to ensure you always drive safely in New York, never turn right illegally on a red light. Not only could you cause an accident. You will also face a hefty fine of up to $300.
4. Look Out for Cabs
It can take a while to get used to driving in a city where cab drivers are continually stopping short on streets to pick up fares and darting in and out of traffic so that they can get to their destinations quickly.
You need to be on the alert for taxis just as much as you are for pedestrians, cyclists, and so on, in order to stay safe.
If you encounter an impatient cab driver, do not challenge the driver. Let him or her pass instead.
