One of the most popular tourist destinations and a city with sights to behold, New York City is full of iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and Times Square. If you’re planning a road trip to New York and looking to explore the city, you shouldn’t skip creating an itinerary. With so much to do and experience in NYC, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Also, keep the nine driving tips discussed in this blog to avoid getting ticketed and other legal problems.
Understand the Layout
In New York City, most streets are laid out in a grid pattern for easier navigation. The numbered avenues run east and west, while the named streets go north and south. Fifth Avenue divides Manhattan into east and west sides, while 14th Street is the dividing line between north and south. Remember that NYC is one of the top five cities in the US with cars that get pulled over for not following the traffic rules. So make sure you stick to the lanes and do not overspeed!
Know the Parking Regulations
There are different rules for parking in NYC, depending on the borough you’re in. In Manhattan, you can park your car at a meter for up to four hours. In Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, you can park your vehicle for free at any legal spot for up to two hours. Staten Island has a mix of both metered and unmetered parking spots. You can also find many private parking garages throughout the city that you can use for a fee.
Download a Parking App
If you’re planning on driving around NYC, it’s a good idea to download a parking app. These apps allow you to search for parking spots in advance and book them so that you don’t have to worry about finding a space when you’re already in the city.
Don’t Drive During Rush Hour
NYC is notorious for its traffic, and driving during rush hour is something you should avoid if possible. If you must drive during these times, plan your route in advance and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination.
Be Wary of Pedestrians
New Yorkers are known for their fast-paced lifestyle. They often jaywalk or cross the street outside of crosswalks, so be on the lookout for rogue pedestrians when you’re driving.
Use Your Blinkers
It may seem like an obvious tip, but using your blinkers when changing lanes or turning is crucial in New York City. Not using them can result in accidents or getting pulled over, so make sure to signal before you change lanes.
Don’t Drive in Bike Lanes
Did you know that New York City has the most bike lanes in the US? So it’s important to be aware of them when you’re driving. Make sure not to drive or park in bike lanes, as this can result in a ticket.
Be Aware of Road Construction
There’s constant construction and road work in New York, so there may be times when your route is blocked or detoured. Pay attention to signs and be prepared for delays.
Obey the Speed Limit
The speed limit in NYC is 30 mph unless otherwise posted. However, many drivers go much slower than this, so it’s important to take your cue from other drivers. Going too fast can result in a ticket, so it’s better to err on the side of caution.
Final Word
It’s important to know how to drive in a busy city like New York. We hope the above tips will help you steer clear of traffic tickets and explore the city in the best way possible!