How to Drive, Commute, Get Around in the City

Member

By colibri22
User-Submitted Article

Article Rating: (9 Ratings)

Don't find yourself in your own Lost Highway

Tips on how to arrive on time, stay safe and avoid getting lost, bored or frustrated when driving/commuting in a large city.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Computer with Internet Connection, Maps, GPS, Cell Phone with Head Set

Step 1

Make like a boy scout and be prepared.

If you've moved from a relatively small or suburban town to a large city, then by now you may have realized that you've traded your ability to get to anything or anyone in 20 minutes to an hour for a 1 to 2 hour commute at best -- no matter where you are headed in the course of your day. Not only that, but that nice street grid you could so easily recall and the kind and knowledgeable stranger who knew exactly how to get you back on track to your destination are now nowhere to be found.

But, don't despair! You CAN navigate the streets and highways of a large city without getting lost, spending half your life stuck in traffic or having to join an anger management class. The key is to find the right tools and to plan ahead.

First things first -- Make sure your vehicle is in proper working order. This means, have a full tank of gas, check the air on your tires, make sure all car fluids are at the right levels, and take care of any major repairs.

You do not want to find yourself broken down on the side of a road, especially when you are not too familiar with your surroundings or worse yet, when you have no idea where you are.
Step 2

Request local road maps from the chamber of commerce.

Most local chambers have relocation packages for a fairly reasonable price. You can make a call or just order on line. These packages can be very helpful and typically contain not only road maps, but also information on the business community, schools, neighborhoods, points of interest and more.

If you don't want to obtain maps through the chamber, there are a number of other ways to obtain these. You can get maps at bookstores, on the Internet, through AAA, on your GPS navigation device, etc.

They main objective here is to not only own a detailed road map, but to KEEP ONE IN YOUR VEHICLE or ON YOU when you travel.
Step 3

Check SigAlert before and during your trip: http://www.sigalert.com

SigAlert and services like SigAlert offer real time live traffic reports. General reports are typically free and you can also opt for paid subscriptions offering customized reports.

If you do not own a computer or mobile phone device that would allow you to check traffic updates while you're on the road and you find yourself stuck in bumper to bumper traffic you could try calling someone to look up the information for you.

Knowing what to expect can make the difference in your route choices and possibly make a different in your state of mind.
Step 4

Become familiar with local radio stations that issue traffic reports.

Radio stations are often your best bet for the most up-to-date traffic information.
Step 5

Use a Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation device.

Whether it is installed in your vehicle or rental car, or if you own a hand held version of this handy tool, a GPS device is not only a powerful planning tool and guide, but can in some cases be a life saver!

A GPS uses satellite data to locate you and your destination.
The device uses near live data to map out a customized route from wherever you are to wherever you want to go.

Added features, however, are the plus to this tool. Many GPS devices can locate the nearest gas station or restaurant for you, locate detours or alternate routes, have up-to-date traffic reports and can locate off-highway directions to your destination. Some even have audio book capabilities to help with a little entertainment on your commute.
Step 6

Don't be a time optimist!

A trip that would take 15 to 20 minutes in the burbs can take up to an hour on a city highway or downtown area. It will take time before you are clear on new traffic patterns. With this in mind, give yourself plenty of extra time to get to your destination.
Step 7

Consider public transportation and rideshare programs.

Commuting is expensive. Between the stress of driving, and gas, parking, and repair costs, you may find public transportation and rideshare programs appealing and practical.

This is also a great way to reduce your carbon footprint!

Research your city for options such as:
Vanpools
Guaranteed Ride Home Programs
Cummuter Choice
Discount Pass Programs
Carpools