Deal With Traffic in New York City

Whether you're a native to the Big Apple or just visiting, New York City traffic can be very frustrating. Here are some ways to be better-prepared for it. This article applies to all 5 boroughs.

Steps

  1. Know where you're going, and the best way to get there. If you randomly drive down different streets, you may wind up hitting some major traffic, especially in Manhattan. If you're unfamiliar with an area or borough, bring a map with you.
  2. Listen to the traffic updates. They are extremely important for avoiding traffic. You can listen to NY1, CBS, NBC, Eyewitness News on TV, or you can listen to AM radio. Pay specific attention to accidents. This could be the difference between a 45 minute and a 2 1/2 hour trip.
  3. Learn to avoid traffic. If you're familiar with the area, you can lead yourself away from the traffic on the major roads by taking some of the smaller streets. Just make sure that you know where the streets will lead you. As for car mileage, taking shortcuts may be longer, but it will help you slip past the mass of cars on the main road. However, this may not always work in some parts of Manhattan, unless you truly know the area well.

Tips

  • Pick up a map of the borough that you are visiting.
  • Check out Google maps. It can show you the location of where you are and where you want to go, and can provide alternate routes.

Warnings

  • As in most places, always be wary of your surroundings.

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