Tips for Driving in Washington DC

Before your car moves you should plan your route. You can do so by setting up your navigation or map before departing from your current location. Also, be sure to pick your tunes for the road as you don't want to be taking your attention away from the road, especially in all of D.C.'s traffic glory. Choose your podcast, playlist, or station, and set it to a volume that still allows you to focus on the road ahead of you. Before heading out you should put your phone away and any other devices you may be bringing with you as well as make-up, food, etc. Anything that may tempt you to take your hands off the wheel. If you have access, you can use your hands-free device for conversation. If you decide to bring some passengers along be sure that you and your passenger fasten your seat belts. If you have small children with you, you can also keep in mind providing some activities such as reading material, puzzles, games, and movies. You can also bring some snacks along for the ride and have a snack before, after, or during your trip gas station breaks.

While on the road you should always obey speed limits. You should also always remember to keep your eyes on the road. Feel free to ask passengers to assist you in staying focused. Passengers always have the ability to speak up when the driver drives unsafely or gets distracted. You can also take a gas station break or pull over and allow someone else to drive if you're feeling a little tired. And definitely be sure to keep the code of the road which is a commitment to responsible and focused driving. This will save money and lives.

The downtown streets of D.C. are set up as a grid overlaid with diagonal avenues. The city's system is pretty straightforward when it comes to navigating. Although, stand-still traffic and congestion are extremely common. Some of the worst times to drive through D.C. are 6 am to 9:30 am and 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm. If you're trying to get into the city you should avoid rush hour, especially on the highways as well as if you want to avoid some serious headaches and accidents. Rush hour is at its worst during certain days of the week. These days are Tuesday through Thursday. In terms of the best times to drive through the city is at times that are well before or well after rush hour. You should also be sure to make yourself aware of any possible events that might be going on in the area.

Before getting on the road and heading got your destination in the city it would be a good idea to make yourself aware of the local traffic laws. For example, it is illegal to use a handheld phone while driving. However, you may use your voice-activated or hands-free vehicle features. Also, when driving through a construction zone you must begin to slow down as well as yield to work vehicles and the workers. The safest thing you can do is move into the far lane if available and accessible. Keep in mind that in this city there are cameras everywhere, especially at any and all red lights. These red light cameras and speeding devices are always in effect day and night.

Here at Pearson CDJR we are happy to help you make your experience in D.C. stress and problem-free. Our service department works day in and day out to help you keep your vehicle in its best condition. We understand that your time is very valuable and we will have your car ready for you and back on the road in a timely manner. Enjoy the adventures of Washington D.C. and do your best to drive safely. Check out our service department here at Pearson CDJR in Richmond, VA.