A Young Driver's Guide to Driving In the City

Driving in traffic through a busy city can be challenging, risky and unpredictable, even at the best of times. If you're unfamiliar with city driving and, even worse, unfamiliar with the city in question, then the experience of driving in a city can be very stressful. Here are a few quick tips to driving in the city for first-time young drivers.

Plan your driving route

Plan your route before starting your trip. Make sure you use an up-to-date map and plan your journey before setting out - this could save you a lot of time later.

Be prepared for traffic delays

Due to their very nature, cities can get very clogged with traffic so make sure you leave yourself enough time for the journey or else you may end up running behind schedule - not good if you have an important meeting or date!

Check traffic reports for delays on your chosen route before setting out and have an alternative journey plan if necessary.

Make your driving intentions clear

As with any type of driving always make sure you leave yourself (and other cars) enough time by signalling in advance of making turns, changing lanes, etc. It's important to make your intentions absolutely clear to avoid accidents (and claims on your young driver insurance).

Keep to the speed limits

Stay within the speed limits - you really don't want to risk fines or accidents, especially since this could have a knock on effect when it comes to renewing your young driver cover.

Watch out for congestion charges

Check if there are any congestion or similar charges and what you have to do to pay them. Don’t be caught out by finding out later you have missed a payment deadline.

Be aware of other road users

Remember - cities are busy places full of pedestrians, cyclists and other road users (such as couriers). You need to make sure you're well aware of other road users and pedestrians - check your mirrors regularly.

Have money for parking charges

Make sure you have enough spare change on you - especially since you may need to park your car near a parking meter or in a car park.

Avoid changing driving lanes

Try to avoid changing lanes constantly, especially if it's unnecessary - the fewer manoeuvres you have to make, the less chance of making a mistake or having an accident.

Don't panic if you miss a turning

Missed a turning or exit? Don't panic and pull across traffic in a last ditch effort, simply carry on driving until you find an area you can turn or go back on yourself.

Drive calmly and observe

Stay cool, keep calm and remain observant - cities are busy places.

Young driver insurance from Towergate

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About the author

Chris North FCII, commercial vehicles insurance articles author Chris North FCII is a respected industry leader with over 40 years' experience, who has worked in the insurance industry in a variety of roles, accumulating a wealth of knowledge. He is currently Technical Manager for Towergate's motor division, providing expertise on all matters relating to motor fleet insurance, in particular haulage and self-drive hire fleets.