How to: Drive in Los Angeles
The streets around popular areas of LA can be busy all day. Photos: Liz Dobson
The City of Angels can become the City of Demons if you don’t remember a few simple rules when you are a tourist in a rental car.
First, have a full licence when hiring a car or get an international driver’s permit from the AA before leaving New Zealand. I found out the hard way when trying to rent a car with a motorcycle learner's stamp on my licence last year and spent an hour convincing the company that I had a full car licence.
There are many car rental companies to get vehicles, and I’ve used the majority of them in my trips to Los Angeles over the decades. All of the main rental companies are based around Los Angeles International Airport and have shuttle buses to transport you from the terminals to the depots.
At a four stop sign intersection, it’s a matter of courtesy.
Always pick the full insurance package (if not included in your travel insurance) as it will be very expensive if you have an accident or, in my case, another vehicle damaged my parked rental.
Opt for a rental with sat nav (some vehicles didn’t have that when I researched) and use it when going to known destinations, as it will alert traffic jams or road works – of which there were many during my trip last year.
Once you are in your rental car, it’s easy to get around LA but there are a few simple rules to remember:
Cars have to give way at pedestrian crossings unless controlled by traffic lights.
Avoid driving in rush hour: This often lasts for three hours rather than one. Driving between 7am and 10am, and 4pm and 7pm, can prove busy.
Right of way: When approaching intersections, you’ll need to give right of way to pedestrians.
Four-way stop sign intersection: it’s a case that whichever vehicle is there first has right of way so just wait your turn. If unsure, take your time and drive slowly.
Cell phone use: You can only make calls from your car with a hands-free device. It’s illegal to read or send text messages when driving.
Children’s car seats: Kids under eight need to sit in a booster seat or car seat in the back of your vehicle.
When to signal: You’ll need to signal 100 feet before making a left or right turn.
Red lights: After stopping, you’re normally allowed to turn right while on a red light, and you get honked at by vehicles behind you if you don’t turn!
Avoid toll roads: There are two main toll roads in Los Angeles to keep an eye out for –the I-10 and I-110.
Watch out for parking restrictions. Your car could be towed away if you park on a red curb.
Look out for valet services. If parking is limited near your hotel, theater or restaurant, a valet could prove a useful alternative but never leave any items or money in your car.
