Final answer:
In city driving, it is important to plan routes in advance, remain patient and observant, drive safely, and consider sustainable transportation options. Respecting traffic rules and understanding necessary exceptions are also essential. Careful observation of surrounding traffic and road conditions is critical to ensure safety and punctuality.
Step-by-step explanation:
In city driving, a good habit is to plan your route in advance, remain observant, and adapt to changing conditions. Planning your route ensures you are prepared for your journey and can help in being punctual, such as aiming to arrive 5-10 minutes early to avoid being late on your first day to work. The ever-changing urban environment, as depicted in Figure 3.2 with zigzagged paths in city like New York, requires drivers to be attentive and flexible. When driving behind slow-moving vehicles, as in the case of Peter who encountered a driver adhering to the speed limit in the business district, patience is essential. Honking and tailgating are discouraged as they can lead to aggressive driving and are not conducive to road safety.
Moreover, being inconspicuous and observing the behavior of others without being intimidating is significant, similar to how one's driving may alter if they are aware of being watched by a police car. The familiarity of a route can sometimes lead to driving on 'autopilot,' but it is critical to always remain focused and cognizant of the surroundings to ensure safety. Understanding traffic rules and their exceptions, such as stopping at red lights unless in a dire emergency like transporting a pregnant woman to the hospital, is also crucial.
Importantly, when considering crossing the road in the presence of oncoming traffic, it is essential to calculate the time and distance required to do so safely, taking into account the speed limits of 60 km/hr and the dimensions of the vehicles. Finally, embracing sustainable practices, such as walking or cycling when possible, can contribute to overall health, reduced pollution, and saving costs associated with driving. When purchasing a vehicle, options like hybrid or electric models reflect a responsible choice towards the environment and fuel efficiency.