Whether you’re visiting the Sunshine State for your Orlando vacation, or you’re a local resident who’s battling the daily traffic jams on the interstate, there are a few guidelines to follow so you enjoy a safe drive through the groves of palm trees. Orlando is a busy city, and getting stuck in traffic can take its toll on your vacation or commute; out-of-state travelers, tourist buses, and general office traffic can quickly create congestion on the major roads. If you find yourself driving in Orlando, here are some tips to keep you safe, on course, and heading in the right direction:
Driving in Orlando Tip #1: Avoid the malls on weekends.
You’ll be traffic bound for over an hour within a 5-mile radius of the malls. The Florida Mall, Mall at Millenia, and even the outlet malls not only fill up with tourists and visitors, but the city’s high school crowds head here as their hangout spot. Plan your shopping trips on the weekdays whenever possible; you’ll also enjoy lower risks of crime during ‘regular office hours.’
Driving in Orlando Tip #2: Lock your doors.
When you’re stuck in traffic or just at a red light, the chances of someone jumping into the passenger or backseat are fairly high. Disney and the surrounding areas are heavily monitored for crime and suspicious behavior, but the neighborhoods just beyond Disney parks aren’t always as safe. Take extra precautions to lock your doors and keep valuables far from reach.
Driving in Orlando Tip #3: Drive at least 10 miles above the speed limit.
Law enforcement will beg to differ (yes, you are breaking the law by speeding) but traffic flow generally oscillates between 10-20 miles above the posted limits on the interstate, expressway, and major streets. Don’t be surprised when you find yourself speeding just to keep up with traffic.
Driving in Orlando Tip #4: Avoid neighborhood driving between 2-4 p.m.
This is the time when school buses take over the streets, and you’ll be stopping and giving way for a couple of hours if you don’t time your trip just right. There are dozens of schools in Orlando, all clustered within a 30 mile radius. If you get stuck behind a bus, plan to add at least 30-45 minutes to your drive—and plenty of stops along the way.
Driving in Orlando Tip #5: Buckle up and turn on the headlights!
Wearing your seatbelt is the law, and the police officer will be happy to reiterate this fact. Florida law requires headlights to be on during a rainstorm.
Driving in Orlando Tip #6: Brace yourself for 4+ lane highways.
As you zip across the interstate and expressway, you’ll notice an immediate shift into multi-lanes that you might be unprepared for if you’re an out-of-state traveler. The extra lanes on the left move very, very fast, so stick to the right if you’re still practicing your lane-changing maneuvers.
Driving in Orlando Tip #7: Don’t switch lanes during your traffic light turn.
This is one of the major causes of traffic accidents in Orlando—just look at the shards of glass at the traffic light intersections for proof. You’ll also want to wait until the light turns green-not yellow-to make your way to the other side, or your risk a serious accident along the way.
Driving in Orlando Tip #8: When you see emergency services in the rearview mirror, speed up!
Just kidding, you’ll need to pull as far to the right as you can. This is standard procedure for most cities, but you’ll need to be especially careful on the interstate when pulling to the right means entering an ‘Exit only’ lane. Take the time to slow down and watch for traffic in your blind spot!!
Driving in Orlando Tip #9: Stock up on quarters.
If you don’t have a Florida SunPass you’ll need to pay your way through the beautiful highways of Orlando. Make sure you have exact change to get you through it; gas stations are hard to come by on many routes along the expressway.
Driving in Orlando Tip #10: If you need help, dial 511.
This is your call to Orlando’s Traveler Information center, and is a great way to get directions or traffic information about different areas around the city.
