Driving in Los Angeles - What you need to know

• By: Editor
• On: 10/Apr/2009
• In: USA Travel Tips

Believe it or not but it has been stated in the past that the residents of Los Angeles County spend an estimated 4 days of each year stuck in traffic!  However since there is no better way of getting around, the people of Los Angeles have had to drive and deal with traffic and delays as part of their lifestyle!  

The off-peak times for driving in Los Angeles are between 11pm to 5am, so if you are planning a trip to Los Angeles and will be driving, it is highly recommended you plan your itinerary around these time as to avoid huge traffic delays.  Los Angeles has not only one of the largest high-speed road networks in the world, it also has the largest car population in the world which contributes in a big way to its congestion problems.

Now that you get the picture you will want to plan your driving route as best as you can to avoid those terrible traffic delays.  To plan your driving itinerary it is highly recommended that you get your hands on a Thomas Guide.  The Thomas Guide can be purchased at any bookstore in LA at approximately $20-$30.  Alternatively you can purchase Rand McNally maps which incorporate the Thomas Guide at most supermarkets, gas stations and convenience stores.  

It is important to know that all Freeways are identified by a name and number.  Number 101 Freeway is referred to as "The" 101 Freeway, always accompanied by the word "The".  The name of a Freeway normally identifies where the Freeway goes to, but as a freeway goes both directions it can, as a result, be called two different names! 

It is important not to get confused by this and bear in mind the following examples: The 110 runs from Pasadena in the north to the LA harbour in the south, this Freeway is therefore called both the Harbor Freeway and the Pasadena Freeway!  The Hollywood Freeway is an unusual name as it runs from 170 Freeway in the north to 101 Freeway in the south only passing through Hollywood and not to Hollywood!  And if that is not confusing enough the 405 known as the San Diego Freeway doesn't go to San Diego!

A Satellite Navigation system or GPS system is also a must and will help you on your way while you explore the beauty of Los Angeles.

Finally, the best way to discover Los Angeles is by car, feel the freedom and independence of the open road when you reserve car hire Los Angeles securely online today.

Have you been to Los Angeles? Please feel free to tell us about your experience and what tips you may have about driving in Los Angeles.