Visit your state’s DMV website or your local Department of Transportation if you are uncertain about your state or country’s residential traffic laws.
Wear your seatbelt and make sure any passengers are wearing their seat-belts as well. Buckle children into proper car seats and restraints. [1] X Research source
It is also generally illegal to wear earbuds in both ears while driving. If your hands free solution involves wearing earbuds, make sure you only have one earbud in at a time. Pull over if you have an emergency call you need to make or take. Even hands-free devices can sometimes be distracting while you are driving.
Keep your speed between 20 and 25 mph (32 and 40 km/h) if you do not see any posted signs. [4] X Research source
If the road is too narrow to pass comfortably, pull over as far as you can onto the shoulder before continuing on.
Look in all directions before you move again. Pedestrians always have the right of way.
Enlist the help of a friend to take you home or to your next destination. Call a taxi, Lyft, or Uber instead of driving yourself.
Use your horn if you think others nearby are dangerously unaware of you presence. Watch for children who might be playing in or around the streets. Look for pets or other animals that may be running near the streets and pedestrians who may be walking or running on sidewalks or in the road.
Look for signs that prohibit U-turns, identify one way streets, and ask you to yield. Use turn signals when you need to turn, and make sure your lights are on in the evening or during rain, snow, or fog.
Some residential areas have streets that are not paved and are instead made up of dirt or gravel. Dirt and gravel roads can be difficult to maneuver, so be sure to go slower than usual and take your time. [7] X Research source Check the weather forecast if you plan on driving long distances.
Try and make a policy of only driving through residential areas if you are stopping at a specific location within that area.
Watch for bikes, motorcycles, scooters and other smaller vehicles that might be on the roads. They can be harder to spot, especially at night.
Like in non-residential areas, passing stopped or slowed vehicles is allowed, and passing vehicles signaling to turn or driving the speed limit is prohibited. Be sure to check all traffic ahead, beside, and behind you when passing or being passed by others. [9] X Research source
Make sure there is enough room left on the road for motorists to safely pass your car if you do pull over to park. Watch for parked cars while you are driving. Look for people who might be opening doors to get out of those cars.
