No one wants to end up in jail!! Using your mobile phone behind the driving wheel might leads you to jail. That is what happened with Henshaw-Bryan when she hit a cyclist causing him some serious injuries. Many new movers to London do not have any idea about the general road rules. Here are some quick tips before hitting the street:
- Excellent public transport system:
It is a splendid idea to avoid driving in London. Especially London has developed a great public transportation system which often offers the quickest way to reach your destination. Buying a Travelcard gives you unlimited access to London’s public transport network including buses, underground and overground trains. Usually, the fastest way to move around the city is the Underground “or Tube as it is known to Londoners” and it is much cheaper than having your own car. You can always plan your journey through TFL website.
- Always “Think Lift.”
If you decided to drive in London, you must always remember to drive on the left-hand side of the road. There is a historical reason for this; it is all about Keeping your sword hand free. Most of the people are right-handed, so if you were traveling and a stranger passed by, your right hand will be free to pull out your sword if needed. If you got used to driving on the right, it might be helpful to put a note “For example, THINK LIFT!!” on your car dashboard or front glass. Some people have a real fear of driving on the wrong side of the road. If you do so, you should ask for help.
- Never drink alcohol or use drugs before driving:
London has a strict drink and drugs rules. Usually, the police forces in London carry out random drink and drugs testing. They can stop you and force you to do some field assessment. If you refuse to provide a specimen of breath, blood or urine for analysis, you might be arrested. The penalties for drugs or drink driving could reach to an unlimited fine, driving ban or at least three months imprisonment.
- Parking:
Finding a park in London is not an easy job. It can be expensive, and on top of the parking fees, there is Congestion Charge; which is a fee to drive in central London during weekdays. Pay attention to the parking rules, always check the lamppost for more information about parking time and charges cause it differs from street to street.
- Bus lane:
Be aware of the bus lane signs. Many People think the bus lane is for the use of buses only; the fact is taxis, motorcycles, bicycles and scooters can use many of them. The purpose of those lanes is to increase journey time reliability, which will encourage the use of public transport. You can use those lanes only outside the operational hours of the public buses. Otherwise, you will be photographed by the automatic cameras and fined (£60) for using the lane.
Sample Tweet:
New Londoner’s? Think Before driving in #London #driving #5thingstoknow
Ali AlHaddad Blog 