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People who visit from all over Canada are intimidated by the prospect of driving in Toronto. As in the case of trying out anything new, it gets easier with practice. It also helps to learn what to expect when arriving in the city, so you don’t find yourself shocked in the middle of rush hour.
Why You Need to Prepare to Drive in Toronto
Not only is Toronto one of the most densely populated cities in North America, with its busiest highway, the 401,but it is also one of the busiest highways in North America. You can expect to experience traffic like nowhere else in Canada, along with some dangerous driving.
If you aren’t accustomed to driving in a major city, you might get nervous while driving, which can add to the danger. Luckily, reading about what to do before you plan your trip can help to relieve this possible tension.
Patience is a Virtue
While you’ll see many drivers in Toronto who seem like patience is the last thing on their minds, you won’t want to follow this example. The best way to avoid road rage, and every other emotion that can create danger, is to remain as patient as possible.
Plan to encounter traffic that will make you later than you expect by leaving ample travel time every time you drive. This way, you won’t experience the anxiety of being delayed, allowing you to remain calmer.
Drive a Safe Vehicle
If you’re unsure about the unreliability of the car you’re driving, you’re not likely to enjoy the same confidence while driving in Toronto as you would in a vehicle you trust. Luckily, Toronto is one of the best places to buy a car in all of Canada because it offers the largest selection of available vehicles, and this level of competition results in better prices. You can find used cars in Toronto by checking with a dealership online, so you’ll be ready to purchase a car as soon as you hit the city.
Keep Your Eyes Peeled for Streetcars
Streetcars and regular buses use many of the central streets in Toronto. If you aren’t used to sharing the road with these vehicles, you may find your initial encounters with them uncomfortable.
One important rule you need to learn is that it is illegal to pass a streetcar in Toronto while it is stopped. This rule is in place for the safety of passengers disembarking and embarking on streetcar passage.
Special Considerations for Cyclists
You should also be sure to always watch for cyclists since Toronto offers many bicycling lanes and areas where bicycles share the road with other vehicles. Take special care to look in your mirrors for cyclists before opening your car doors. You’ll also want to watch out for bike lanes when you park.
While Toronto poses many new issues for drivers who are new to the city to consider, only practice will help you to become more secure as a Toronto driver. If you find you are finding the city too intimidating, you might want to consider using transit while watching the traffic for tips for your first few days in the city. You should also ensure you have a safe and reliable vehicle to drive by visiting a Toronto used car dealership to find a great deal.