Tips for Rural Drivers heading into a Big City (moving, estimate)

[StandingLenticular]

I'm not really a rural driver, but I am definitely not used to driving in large cities like LA or New York.

With the flow of traffic moving at 70 with all 5 lanes packed, cars weaving without signaling, lanes ending and merging one after another...how can you prepare for that if you're used to wide open roads with little traffic?

I'm asking because my uncle from Wyoming is making a trip to our Family Reunion in LA. I think Cheyenne is the most traffic he usually deals with.

[annie_himself]

Maybe you can meet him somewhere and let him follow you. I have to deal with the same situation.

[Craziaskowboi]

Stay to the right.

[danielj72]

I am from rural Michigan and when I drove into LA for the first time it shocked me. I adjust well to new driving enviroments and I survived. I had a friend with me however that became very nervous and he was in the passanger seat. He was quite thankful that I drove in it. The point I am trying to make is that some people from the less dense parts of the country are going to have a tough time driving in LA, as it is a true shock. If I were in the OPs shoes I would offer to meet him outside the city and either have him follow you or offer to drive his car in for him. (obvioulsly you would have to have someone ride with you to meet him) He may decline the offer and be perfectly capable of dealing with it, but at least youve given him the option. Dont underestimate how intimidating LA driving is to people from the rural parts of this nation. Last time I was there I dont think ive ever seen so many nasty aggressive drivers.

[lammius]

Originally Posted by annie_himself

Maybe you can meet him somewhere and let him follow you. I have to deal with the same situation.

Trying to follow and stick together in crazy traffic would just add more stress, IMO.

The volume of traffic in LA is high, the congestion is chronic, and you're going to get frustrated by the delays, but I wouldn't call it an intimidating experience. I find LA drivers to be more courteous than East Coast drivers. I've never had to fight to merge, for example. Just tell 'em to be cautious/defensive and alert, and if the weaving is distracting, then pick a lane (preferably toward the right) and stay in it no matter what.