New York State has amazing natural beauty, jam-packed cities, and cultural landmarks. While planning to visit the city, you must be aware of potential hazards on the road. From the streets of Syracuse to quiet rural highways, knowing what you are getting into will help keep you safe and make your trip more enjoyable.
One look at the car accident hot spots in Syracuse makes it clear that traffic density and the layout of roads are the main culprits. It’s important to stay safe if you’re visiting these spots.
Here are five practical tips to help you stay safe in New York State’s accident-prone areas.
- Stay Alert
Cities like Syracuse are alive and buzzing, but they also contain a few of the deadliest places for accidents. The streets off of South Salina and Erie Boulevard downtown are notorious for congestion and complicated intersections. To navigate urban areas safely:
- Drive defensively, and do not use your phone while driving.
- Follow traffic signals and yield to the pedestrian.
- Know your route beforehand so you do not get turned around or stuck on a one-way street.
2.Try to Be Patient in Commercial Zones
Enter and exit cautiously in places with high traffic, such as Erie Boulevard East in Syracuse. Sudden stops can cause accidents in these zones. To minimize risks:
- Slow down when driving in shopping areas.
- Enter and exit parking lots in advance and use turn signals.
- Watch out for those who may unexpectedly turn across your path.
3.Drive Cautiously on Rural Roads
Rural highways in New York can be problematic for new drivers. For instance, Route 20 in Skaneateles is known for higher speeds, sharper curves, and limited visibility, but so is Route 91 in Pompey. These highways also present significant risks for wildlife crossings and head-on collisions. Therefore, follow the suggestions below when driving on rural roads.
- Keep your speed within the recommended limits.
- Use high beams at night when visibility cannot be relied on, but turn them off when you see oncoming traffic.
- Be on the lookout for animals crossing the road at dawn or dusk.
4.Navigate Expressways with Care
Fast expressways like I-81 and I-690 in Syracuse carry many risks, including short and quick ramps, diminished lanes, and much traffic during peak hours. For instance, near Teall Avenue on I-690, rear-end collisions happen because of quick merges.
To stay safe on expressways:
- Keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Do not suddenly switch lanes; use your mirrors and signal before merging.
- Drive slowly near construction zones.
5.Prepare for Winter’s Driving Challenges
Visiting New York State during winter makes driving even more hazardous, as roads are covered in snow and ice. This is particularly true in Syracuse, where the winter weather is intense. To prepare for winter conditions:
- You should equip your car with snow tires or chains if you have to.
- Make sure you have an emergency kit with blankets, water, and a flashlight.
- Drive slowly and add additional distance for stopping on slippery roads.
Conclusion
New York State has much to offer, but you should always stay safe while driving. Whether trying to understand urban traffic patterns or threading your way through rural highways cautiously, these tips can help you avoid the dangers in cities like Syracuse, where accidents are rampant. Following these tips will keep your trip memorable.
