City driving: stress-inducing or a piece of cake?

Driving a car can be an exhilarating experience. Just look at the adverts - images of long, empty roads, sexy open-topped sports cars and the great unknown conjure thoughts of cruising along to some great soundtrack without a care in the world. 

However, reality usually gets in the way of this archetypal dream, especially when faced with the dreaded city-centre traffic jam. Complicated one-way systems and impatient bus and taxi drivers who seem to be able to navigate their way around the city in 10 minutes, also add serious weight to one’s nervous tension. 

City driving, particularly when a place is unfamiliar, can therefore be a potentially terrifying and stressful experience. People cursing one another and horns blaring are a common occurrence, which can unnerve even the steeliest of drivers. 

However, with the right know-how, anyone can comfortably cruise around town whilst imagining they are instead on some lost highway no-one knows about and where other cars don’t exist. 

It is definitely worth thinking about your choice of car. If, for example, you only drive in the city, and rarely, if ever make longer road trips, it may well be worth opting for a smaller car rather than a large family saloon or even a 4x4. This can not only be a more economical choice fuel wise - a huge factor considering the present price of filling your car up - but will also help when it comes to parking. 

More often than not, and always when you’re running late, there only seems to be the tiniest of spaces in which to park. Owning a large car which is unlikely to fit into these small spaces will only add to your stress, whilst the smaller ones, usually specifically designed for city driving, are much easier to navigate into those tight corners. A point of vital importance is being aware not only of where you park your car, but also what you leave on display. A thief will only thank you for parking in a dimly-lit, empty street and for leaving your new set of golf clubs sparkling in the window. It definitely pays to invest in anti-car theft security, such as an alarm or steering wheel lock. 

Keeping abreast of any current or pending construction work, and factoring it into your journey ahead of schedule is also a smart move. You'll be able to plot an alternative route, or make plans to leave earlier and thus give yourself more time to make the journey. 

However, even the most vigilant and organised of drivers can come unstuck in the city. Not only is there the chance of your vehicle being a target for thieves, there are also those people who don’t look where they are going, consequently ending up in your boot! It's times like these you'll be glad of your car insurance policy; while it won't protect you from the road hazards of the city, car insurance can help alleviate any aftermath from being the unfortunate victim of car crime or an accident by helping meet the cost of collision damage, fire or theft. 

Paul McIndoe writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.