If you’re visiting Los Angeles for the first time, or if you’re a California native who’s never driven in LA before, there are a few things you need to know. The city’s freeway system can be confusing, and the traffic can be brutal.
In this article, we’ll discuss everything from how to navigate the freeways to what to do when you get stuck in traffic. So whether you’re driving into LA for vacation or for work, read on for some helpful tips!
Use a hands-free device
As anyone who has ever driven in Los Angeles knows, traffic can be pretty crazy. With so many cars on the road, it’s no wonder that accidents are a common occurrence.
But one of the best ways to prevent these accidents is to use a hands-free device whenever you talk on your cell phone while driving. This is especially important in LA, where distracted driving is not only dangerous but also illegal.
With so many cars on the road, it’s essential that you keep your eyes and attention focused on the road at all times. By using a hands-free device, you can make sure that you’re staying safe behind the wheel and avoiding any potentially serious accidents or tragedies.
If you’re ever injured in a car accident in Los Angeles, make sure to learn about your rights and get the representation you deserve by visiting JT Legal Group.
Avoid Carpool/HOV Lanes
The carpool lanes on the freeways in Los Angeles are only for vehicles carrying more than two people. If you’re driving in Los Angeles for the first time, this is important to keep in mind.
The carpool lanes are intended to relieve traffic congestion and improve air quality by encouraging drivers to share rides. However, these lanes are often underutilized because many drivers choose to drive alone. As a result, the other lanes often become congested, defeating their purpose.
If you’re driving in Los Angeles, be sure to avoid the carpool lanes if you’re traveling alone. It may be open, but it’s not worth the fine!
Rush hour isn’t just an hour
Anyone who’s lived in Los Angeles knows that traffic is a way of life. The city is huge, and the freeways are always crammed full of cars. Rush hour traffic is particularly bad, and if you can avoid driving during these times, you’ll be much better off.
Rush hour typically runs from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. on weekday mornings, and from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. (or later) in the afternoons. If you don’t want to deal with the stress of traffic, it’s best to stay off the road during these times.
Additionally, the freeways are always more congested than the surface roads, so if you need to travel during rush hour, stick to the surface streets. You’ll get where you’re going just as quickly (maybe quicker), and you’ll avoid all of the headaches that come with being stuck on the freeway in traffic.
Lane splitting is legal
When driving in Los Angeles, it’s especially important to be aware of motorcyclists at all times, as lane splitting is legal (when a motorcyclist drives in between lanes).
Many drivers tend to underestimate how fast a motorcycle can move through traffic, and so they may throw sudden lane changes or turns into the mix without giving much thought to what’s happening around them.
But if you’re aware of both the potential dangers and benefits of lane splitting, you can better protect yourself on the road and avoid any potentially catastrophic collisions with one of these smaller vehicles.
Keep your eyes open at all times —that way, you’ll always be ready for whatever comes your way in Los Angeles!
Buckle up for safety
This one should go without saying, but always remember to buckle up when you’re driving in Los Angeles. Not only is it the law, but it’s also the best way to protect yourself and your passengers in the event of an accident. And with so many cars on the road, accidents are bound to happen.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the things you need to know before driving in Los Angeles. By following these tips, you can help make sure that your experience on the road is as safe and enjoyable as possible.
