Tips for city driving
Driving in inner city areas can be stressful – there are more
cars on the road, as well as pedestrians, bikes, delivery trucks,
taxis and public transport.
Remember that your parent/supervisor is an invaluable resource –
use their experience to help you come up with strategies for
handling the extra pressures of inner city driving.
Start with Tactics for handling
unfamiliar situations to help you plan your approach.
We’ve put together some tips to keep in mind on city roads – as you
get more experience, you’ll be able to add many more to the
list.
- Plan your route and mentally practice where you'll be
going.
- Ideally, peak hour should be avoided – if it’s not possible,
prepare yourself to be patient.
- Where possible, stick to one lane. It might seem like
frequently changing lanes will get you there faster, the difference
will be minimal, and you will increase your chance of a
collision.
- City driving is often busy and drivers can become impatient –
don’t take it to heart if another driver becomes frustrated with
you.
- Similarly, if another driver or pedestrian makes a reckless
move, stay calm. Notice what they did wrong and pat yourself on the
back for how well you handled the situation.
- Often city lanes will be designated for specific actions – such
as ‘left turn only’. Keep looking well ahead to make sure you
remain in the correct lane.
- Making turns on city roads can be confusing; while it’s
important to get as much experience as possible with tricky turns,
if you’re not sure whether it’s safe or legal, continue driving
straight and turn when you feel safe.
- Pay close attention to parking restrictions – parking
inspectors in city areas are particularly efficient!
