How to Follow a Detour

Every driver must occasionally follow a detour due to accident or road construction. While those of us who have been driving for some time may take little notice of detours, new drivers often find detours out of their comfort zone. Don't be concerned. With a little common sense you too can learn to follow a detour with confidence.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Know where you are at all times while driving. Pay attention which direction you're headed. Note mile markers and road signs. If you can visualize your location on a map, you'll feel less apprehensive about detour signs when you encounter them.
2. Keep a map in the car at all times. The peace of mind it brings makes detours less challenging because a map of the surrounding area removes the fear of the unknown.
3. Watch for and obey all detour signs. Some are harder to spot than others; particularly at night. Don't second guess the signs and attempt to drive around blocked off streets; the detour is there for a reason. The last thing you want to explain is why your car is axle deep in fresh concrete or trapped by construction equipment at the base of a missing bridge.
4. Pay attention to landmarks and cross streets. If you should become lost, they can help you find your path again. This is especially important with poorly marked, long detours that take you far off the main path. Don't allow yourself to drive on 'autopilot' or you can miss an important detour sign and wind up lost.
5. Remember that every road comes out somewhere. Even if you get lost, you'll eventually come to a main intersection that appears on the map. Going out of your way is inconvenient, but it's never a cause for panic.

Tips & Warnings

• Temporary, sandbagged detour signs can sometimes be blown over in high winds or knocked down by passing motorists. Watch the side of the road for fallen signs.
• Many, (albeit not all), roads are laid out in a grid fashion. Keep track of your directional changes. If you get lost on the detour, you can often route yourself back to where you need to be by using this simple method.