Manila is notorious when it comes to its traffic, reckless drivers, and chaotic road schemes. If you are non-Manileño planning to drive in Metro Manila, here are some things that you should know. Driving in Manila is a special skill in and of itself.
You may be confident about your driving skills in the province, but in Manila, even the most talented drivers are challenged by the chaos that is the Metro Manila traffic. Are you planning to get a car or van for rent here in Manila and drive it yourself?
Before you get a rental, here are some things that you should know about driving in this metropolis:
1. Always use your signal lights
A lot of kamote drivers in Metro Manila don’t use their signal lights enough. If you are planning to drive in Manila, remember that there are a lot more motorists here than in the province. And unfortunately, no one can predict if you are about to turn, change lanes, or do a U-turn.
Make sure you use your signal lights every single time if you don’t want to get other drivers mad at you–or worse, cause an accident that will just make traffic worse.
2. Be a chill driver
Driving in the big city is stressful; no one can deny that. Most of the time, there’s nothing you can do about it. So take it upon yourself to be as chill of a driver as possible. Don’t speed, stop changing lanes so often, give way to other drivers, and relax.
Your road rage won’t do any good for anybody, most especially not yourself.
3. Look out for traffic signs
In Manila, a lot of traffic signs are not easily seen (or completely hidden), too small, or are unreadable. As the driver, it’s your responsibility to keep an eye out for traffic signs and follow them. Otherwise, a corrupt traffic enforcer may take advantage of you.
If you are caught, say that you are not familiar with the area and the sign is too small, dirty, or hidden to see.
4. Use Waze
It’s easy to get lost in Manila if you’re not from around here. To help you with directions and traffic rules, download Waze and use it whenever you’re driving in the city. It can help you avoid traffic violations, be wary of hazards on the road (constructions, accidents, etc.), and point you to the quickest way possible to your destination.
5. Be vigilant
Don’t fall victim to the MOs and scams on the streets of Manila. To keep yourself safe, make sure you are updated on the latest modus operandi of criminals in the city.
6. Get a dashcam
If you are driving a rental, your car will most likely have a dashcam for insurance purposes. But if you are driving your own vehicle to Manila, make sure you have a dashcam. In this way, if you get into an accident or get targeted by scammers, the video evidence will serve well in your favor.
This is probably easier said than done, but staying calm and polite can save you from a sticky situation. Driving in Manila is no field day for anybody, so don’t be that person that starts a fight just because someone cut you off. Stay relaxed, be courteous, and everybody else can follow your lead.
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