Driving in NYC

Learn how to deal with constant stress and handle traffic jams in a big and densely populated city!

Should you drive a car in the city where the subway system operates 24/7 and covers pretty much the whole city (except Staten Island)? Probably not. Driving a car in Big Apple can be very difficult, considering the number of people living in a relatively small space. Islands, bridges, and tunnels don’t make things better. If we talk about Manhattan, driving there is a nightmare! If you live or work in Manhattan and drive your car every day, you’re either masochistic, have a booked parking spot, or want to test your limits and experience the ultimate stress. 

The best advice you can get is “DO NOT DRIVE IN NYC!” Hire a chauffeur from the airport and focus on business or fun! If you decide to ignore this suggestion, make sure to prepare for The Capital of the World. 

Driving a car in NYC is annoying, stressful, and time-consuming, but it’s not impossible. Let’s see some tips on dealing with NYC traffic and making your transportation in the city easier.

Think About Parking Before Your Trip

Finding a parking spot in Manhattan is not impossible, but it’s not easy, at least not always. If you’re traveling to New York for business or a special occasion like a wedding, you can book and pay for parking online and be sure you’ll have a place for your beloved vehicle as soon as you arrive. The key is knowing where you’re going. 

Google something like “book parking in NYC” or something similar, and you’ll get many helpful results (parkme.com, parking.com, iconparkingsystems.com, etc.). Reserve a parking spot near Javits Center, Pennsylvania Station, Times Square, Radio City Music Hall, Battery Park City, Flatiron District, Empire State Building, or another location in Manhattan, and you won’t have to go through a hassle and waste time.

Pay Attention to Cyclists and Pedestrians

New York traffic is much more complicated and different from other major cities in the US. People are trying to find alternative transportation methods, so the number of bicycles, electric scooters, and pedestrians is much higher. Keep this in mind while driving in NYC to avoid potential accidents. 

Follow the speed limit, look around before you open the car door, fold side view mirrors, and never consume drugs or alcohol while driving. People often cross the street away from crosswalks, so you need to be alert the whole time!

Drive Right Away When You See the Green Light

Stay alert while waiting at the stop lights because every second of a delay will be “rewarded” with honking and yelling. It sounds a bit harsh at first, but considering the amount of stress that comes with Manhattan traffic, it’s understandable how every second counts. 

Avoid unnecessary tensions by staying focused and driving as soon as you see green! Driving in The City means you have to be fully aware of the surroundings and act quickly. Everything moves fast in this incredible place, including the traffic.

Skip All the Hassle and Book a Chauffeured Car

After you read most of this article, you might want to reconsider the advice not to drive and go through all the hustle and bustle. Taxis and Uber are often unreliable. If you want to arrive on time, try to avoid them. 

The best way to travel across New York City and surrounding areas is to reserve a chauffeured vehicle from the airport at least one day before your trip. That way, you’ll get a professional driver with a lot of experience driving in impossible conditions, a spotless, attractive vehicle, 24/7 service, and quick rides to various locations. 

Choose the timely and most comfortable livery service in the city – AJ Limo New York and have a stress-free New York experience!