5 Tips for Driving and Parking in Big Cities

This is a collaborative post.

Getting around a built-up urban area can be difficult, especially if you’re trying to do so in a car. Many of our big cities simply aren’t built with the needs of the average motorist in mind, and the sheer lack of space can make it difficult to get from one place to the next. What’s more, there’s a much greater risk of you falling victim to crime – whether you’ve parked the car, or you’re currently driving it.

Around 70% of drivers believe that all cars should be fitted with a dash camera, according to recent polling from Nextbase. The same poll revealed that getting one fitted was a sign of a responsible driver.

The company’s Head of Road Safety, Bryn Brooker, said that: “Brits are increasingly making an effort to protect themselves on the road from dangerous drivers, both by installing Dash Cams and using the footage they record to help get dangerous drivers off the roads. It is perhaps not surprising given so many drivers are taking unnecessary risks in driving while texting, trying to eat a sandwich, or some other distraction.”

But the dash camera, and the rear-view camera, are just two ways to make yourself safer while driving and parking in a big city. Let’s consider a few of the others.

Plan Your Route in Advance

If you understand exactly where you’re going, then you’ll be much less likely to get lost. You should pay particular attention to the availability of parking, and where the traffic is likely to be. Real-time updates from the right smartphone app can be a critical difference-maker.

Stay Calm in Heavy Traffic

When you’re surrounded by dense traffic, and everyone but you seems to understand where they’re going, it’s easy to become stressed. Try to anticipate this feeling. Take a deep breath, remember the fundamentals of safe driving, and don’t allow yourself to be rushed.

Smart Parking Techniques

The larger the parking space you’re trying to back into, and the smaller your vehicle, the easier you’ll find it. Don’t rush, and don’t be afraid to back up and make another attempt. Rear-view cameras and sensors, again, can be very helpful.

Follow Traffic Rules & Observe Road Signs

The rules of the road are there for a reason. Don’t drive in a bus lane unless you’re driving a bus. The same applies to cycle lanes. One-way systems should be respected, as should speed limits, clean air zones, and pedestrian crossings.

Be Aware of Other Road Users

Driving in a big city means sharing the road with a wide variety of other motorists, as well as pedestrians and cyclists. Don’t assume that they’ll all be patient and courteous – and be on the lookout for sudden, unexpected manoeuvres.