5 Tips for Driving in the City

Your route takes you through a big city, or your customer is in a busy area. The idea of driving in major cities can be daunting. Large cities often have heavier traffic, narrower streets, more lanes and less room for backing and turning.

For new drivers facing busy cities, the best thing to do is follow the safe driving practices you know. It also helps to plan and remain calm. If you’re nervous about driving in the city, take the pressure off yourself! Driving in the city is like driving anywhere else—only with more people on the road. 

Follow this article’s recommendations, and always take your time while driving.

5 Tips for Driving in the City 

When your route goes into a large city, you’ll be ready to drive through it with no problem. Take your time to make the best decision for your situation. If other motorists get frustrated quickly, don’t worry about it! Safety comes first. You are the captain of the ship.

1. Plan Ahead

A good plan will take you far. With a plan, you will feel prepared if something unexpected occurs, like a traffic jam or surprise road work. Once you know where you’re going, take the time to plan and research your route there.

Double Check Your Directions 

You can use the Prime Mobile App to review the best way to arrive at your destination. You can download it for free from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. 

Comparing tools helps confirm you’ve got the right directions. Before you leave, try plugging the address into another source to ensure you get the same steps.

Make sure you look at the way in and the way out. Sometimes, your best path into the city or facility isn’t the best path out. When reviewing your directions, think about your arrival and your exit. 

Pre-Screen Your Destination 

Customers may have smaller lots in larger cities. It can also be challenging to turn around if you pass their facilities. You can use the satellite view of Google Maps or Google Earth to see your destination ahead of time. 

Using these tools, you can identify where you pull in and determine the size of the lot. You may not see everything about the lot and facility, but you’ll be able to notice the big things. You can also look ahead for places to turn around in case you miss the turn the first time. 

Give Yourself More Time 

As you plan, you should give yourself some buffer time for arrival. Heavy traffic can slow you down depending on when you’ll be in the city. You’ll want more time for navigating the area. If you miss a turn or pass your destination, you’ll have time to navigate back without being late.

2. Watch Road Signs

Busy cities and metropolitan areas may have more obstacles for truck drivers. As you drive, look for road signs offering insight on what’s ahead. 

City Road Signs 

In many cities, semi-truck drivers must watch out for low overpasses and weight restrictions. You should also keep your eyes peeled for varying speeds and one-way streets. Staying alert and following road signs will keep you safe.

Interstate Numbering  

You’re likely familiar with the interstate numbering system. For truck drivers, these numbers help you plan your route. You can save time if you don’t need to go through the central city area.

Single- and two-digit numbers indicate primary highways. Three-digit interstates are beltways or bypasses. In metropolitan areas, taking a three-digit road brings you around the main part of the city.

3. Pre-Trip Inspections 

Never miss a pre-trip inspection! With only 15 to 20 minutes of your time, you can prevent yourself from being stuck in the middle of traffic. As you examine your truck and trailer, you’ll catch any issues and make sure your equipment is ready for the road. 

During your pre-trip inspection, you’ll check the engine, brakes, tires, lights and trailer. If everything checks out, you’ll be set to start your drive.

4. Maintain Your Cool in Rush Hour

Rush hour traffic in a major city can be stressful. Your job is to keep your cool and do what you do best—drive. Try not to put too much pressure on yourself in hectic scenarios. Instead, stay alert and calm. 

Here are a few things to remember when driving in rush-hour traffic:  

• Maintain your lane. Older city lanes may be narrow. Focus on keeping your truck within your lane. 
• Always signal. Signal when you want to change lanes or exit. Always signal ahead of time to alert other motorists. 
• Check your mirrors. Track the traffic around you in your mirrors. You should have an idea of the vehicles that surround you at all times. Always check your mirrors before changing lanes.
• Position yourself near your exit. If your exit is coming up, position yourself in the correct lane as early as possible. Planning your lane change gives you plenty of time to make it over before your exit appears.
• Keep a good following distance. This is a big one in heavy traffic. Try to maintain a safe distance between you and the cars in front of you. You want enough room to stop your larger equipment if someone slams on the brakes.

5. Drive Defensively 

You never know what could happen with other motorists. In a huge city center, traffic may be more aggressive. Be ready to drive defensively, whether on a seemingly lonesome highway or in the middle of a large city. 

Stay alert and be ready for anything. Some great tips for defensive driving include: 

• Scan the road. Checking your blind spots and scanning the road ahead help you notice what’s around you. You should check your blind spots every 8 to 10 seconds. 
• Keep equipment in shape. Your pre-inspection will help you notice anything amiss with your equipment. You should also keep your windshield and headlights clean for better visibility. 
• Look at road signs. Pay attention to the road signs around you. Knowing if there’s an intersection, stop sign or crossing traffic ahead helps you plan to slow down. 
• Follow the speed limit. A defensive driver follows the speed limit and doesn’t drive aggressively. You’re operating a big rig and hauling heavy cargo, so you have a responsibility to be a careful, alert driver. 
• Slow down at night. It’s harder to see after dark. When you’re moving slower, you may have more time to correct a maneuver or avoid an accident ahead. 

Apply to Drive Today 

Wherever you’re headed, you’ll make a successful stop by following safe driving practices. A big city poses unique challenges, but you’ll be up to the task. 

After training with Prime Inc., you’ll know how to operate and maintain your equipment. Just keep your eyes open for your exits and other drivers. Remember to take your time, and don’t let stress or pressure from other motorists get to you. 

Are you ready to drive for Prime? Apply online to get started. 

Have questions? Call our Recruiting Department at 866-290-1568 to apply by phone.