How to Drive Safely in a Residential Area

Safe driving in residential areas is important. Obstacles on residential streets are different from those of major highways, so it is important to be alert even though you are traveling at a reduced speed. There are ways to make sure that your trip through neighborhood streets is a safe one.

Instructions

1. Know the speed limit. Most streets have a speed limit between 25 and 35 mph. Driving over the speed limit affects reaction time on streets where every second counts.

2. Stay alert. It only takes a split second for a child or animal to dart into the street. Take notice of children walking home from school or a car backing out of a driveway. Always assume that these people don't see your vehicle and be prepared to act accordingly.

3. Watch for traffic signs. There can sometimes be trees or parked cars obstructing the view of signs. Stop signs and school crossing signs are important for the safety of the neighborhood. Come to a complete stop when you see a stop sign. Slow down when you see a sign announcing a school.

4. Limit distractions. Fiddling with the radio or talking on a cell phone can be disastrous when driving in a residential area. Taking your eyes off the road can result in missing something very important, such as a soccer ball that rolls into the roadway and the young child who runs out to retrieve it.

5. Watch for pedestrians. Pedestrians have the right of way in an intersection. Instead of being annoyed by the delay, show patience. An injured child will cause you a lot more emotional distress than any temporary anxiety about being late for that meeting.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't use residential streets as a shortcut. People in a hurry use shortcuts, resulting in speeding, accidents and an unsafe environment for those who actually live in the neighborhood.