One-way streets can be tricky to navigate, especially for new drivers. Here’s some advice for how to safely navigate this type of road in the Silver Spring, MD area.
Check Your Navigation System
Modern technology makes many aspects of traveling the roads easy, and that includes handling one-way roads. You can check the route you have planned on the GPS system or app that you use. In most cases, the information displayed should be up-to-date to inform you of any one-way roads on your route.
There should be markings that clearly denote when a road can only be traveled down in one direction. Look for signs indicating where you can or cannot turn when you pull up to an intersection. You should also keep an eye out for ‘wrong way’ or ‘do not enter’ signs, as these are often used to mark roads that can’t be traveled down in the direction that the sign is showing.
Pay Attention to Parked Cars
If there’s parking on the street in the area you’re driving in, that can be another clue to help you navigate one-way thoroughfares. Generally speaking, vehicles are required to park facing the direction that the road can be traveled down. If you see that all the vehicles are parked facing you, there’s a good chance you’re moving in the wrong direction.
Keep Your Speed Under Control
Whenever you’re behind the wheel, you want to keep your speed manageable and within the restrictions that speed limits in the area put on you. In case you do end up moving down a road in the wrong direction, keeping your speed under control will help you react as necessary to stay safe through this potentially dangerous incident.
Stay Alert and Avoid Distractions
While this advice applies to any situation on the road, it’s even more important to stay fully alert and aware when dealing with one-way roads. Don’t let common distractions such as loud music or your cell phone take your focus off the road. This could cause you to miss signs indicating a one-way road.
Know How to Safely Make a U-Turn
In the event that you end up going the wrong way down a one-way road, you need to know how to recover. Look for the nearest place where you have some room to maneuver and pull over to the side of the road. Then, back off towards the shoulder to reposition your vehicle and take a wide turn to start moving in the correct direction.
So whether you’re a new driver looking for more tips to help you on the roads or a new resident of Maryland seeking more information about your new state, these tips from us at DARCARS Toyota of Silver Spring are sure to help! We’re your trusted source for all things automotive, so if you wish to continue learning, be sure to use the links above to get started!
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