DC Relocation: Transportation
Relocating to the Washington DC Metro are (DCM) and worried about getting around? Here are a few tips on navigating Washington DC.
Photo: Library of Congress
Driving in Washington DC: DC Traffic Circles
One of the wild and wacky aspects to driving in Washington D.C. The most famous traffic circle is Dupont Circle.
Dupont traffic circle is located at the intersection of Massachusettes Avenue NW, Connecticut Avenue NW, New Hampshire Avenue, P Street NW and 19th Street NW. Here's a list of the other traffic circles, courtesy of Wikipedia
The most important thing to remember about Dupont Circle and traffic circles in general is that there are inner and outer lanes. Outer lanes exit. Inner lanes merge outward to exit.
Stay on the outside lane if you're exiting soon. If not, stay in the next inward lane from the exit lane so you can merge right to exit at the next opportunity. Big “Don’t”: Don’t stop, signal and block the lane you’re in to merge right! This will result in a chorus of angry horn blasts from other drivers.
Signal arrows don't always turn green for entry into the circle. If you see a flashing yellow arrow, proceed as soon possible or risk the wrath of those behind you. Just inch ahead until you feel safe completely merging, then merge inward one lane if you're not exiting immediately. Relax, and watch out for pedestrians and bicycles!
To continue driving straight, stay in the outside lane and move past the exits until you're opposite your entry point.
Still confused? You're better off staying out of the exit lane, where you'll be forced to exit on a street you're not familiar with. Instead, simply revolve around the circle once. You'll be able to see all the options and make your exit on the next loop.
HOV Lanes on DC Metro Intersate Highways
Between certain hours of the day, and sometimes only in one direction, some Interstate highways are closed to traffic that does not comply with HOV laws. Yes, closed. You can't use them. Police vehicles (both marked and unmarked) regularly stake out the on-ramps (once you're on, you're caught because there's no quick exit). Tickets for even a first offense are very expensive and include license points. The police don't give warnings, even for out-of-staters and I've never heard of anyone beating an HOV ticket. Be aware, and find an alternate route.
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Copyright 2012 Susan Isaacs
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