Thursday, October 1, 2026
As Long Islanders are all too aware, our main mode of transportation is our cars and SUVs. Our road system consists of a unique mix of urban, suburban and rural routes. Whether you’re a longtime resident, a new driver or even a visitor, knowing how to navigate these roads safely is crucial. Below are some important tips for driving here. Most of them are tried-and-true, common-sense practices that you have likely heard before, but hopefully they’ll serve as a refresher course to help keep us safer in our daily travels.
Be prepared for traffic jams. Long Island’s roadways, particularly those closer to New York City, are notorious for traffic congestion, especially during rush hours.
The Long Island Expressway and the Northern and Southern State parkways can become virtual parking lots, particularly at times when commuters are heading into or home from New York City, or during the summer, when people flock to the beaches.
Plan to leave earlier, or try using real-time navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps, which can provide traffic updates and suggest alternate routes. Patience is key — being stuck in traffic is frustrating, but maintaining a calm demeanor can help avoid accidents caused by aggression or road rage.
Understand the road layout. Our roads can be tricky to navigate, especially for newcomers or those in unfamiliar territory. There’s a mix of multi-lane highways, narrow local roads and curvy backstreets that require different levels of attention. Some areas, especially in Nassau County, have confusing intersections, traffic circles and jug handles, which aren’t always clearly marked.
Familiarize yourself with your route before heading out. If possible, take a dry run of unfamiliar routes during off-peak times. When you’re behind the wheel, keep an eye out for road signs and make sure you’re in the correct lane well in advance of upcoming turns or exits.
Beware of aggressive driving. Many Long Island drivers are in a hurry. Whether it’s the constant flow of commuters or residents trying to beat traffic, aggressive driving is a significant concern. Speeding, tailgating and weaving in and out of traffic are all common behaviors that can increase the risk of accidents.
Keep a safe following distance, and avoid engaging with aggressive drivers. If someone is speeding and tailgating you, it’s better to move over and let them pass.
Never challenge them. Also, abide by speed limits, as many roads — especially those near schools or in residential areas — have reduced speed limits for safety. And if you ever encounter a road rage situation and feel threatened, don’t hesitate to call 911 or drive to the nearest police station.
Be a defensive driver. Drivers can sometimes make sudden and unexpected moves, like abruptly changing lanes or turning without signaling. This is why defensive driving is so important in ensuring your safety. Always assume that other drivers may make mistakes, and be prepared to react.
Stay alert and anticipate potential hazards. Always use your turn signals, yield to pedestrians, and be mindful of cyclists sharing the roads. And one of the biggest no-no’s: Avoid distractions like texting or adjusting your GPS while driving.
Follow the rules of the road. Traffic laws exist for a reason, to protect all road users. Unfortunately, many Long Island drivers neglect or ignore laws like stopping at stop signs, yielding when required, and using seatbelts. These actions can not only lead to tickets, but can also cause accidents that could have been avoided with a little more caution.
Always obey traffic signals, stop signs and yield signs. Use your seatbelt and make sure all of your passengers are wearing theirs. The risk isn’t worth it, especially on Long Island, where heavy traffic and the potential for sudden stops can make the roads more dangerous.
Driving here requires adaptability, patience and a focus on safety. The Island’s varied roads and unpredictable traffic patterns can be challenging, but by following these safety tips and staying aware of your surroundings, you’ll be able to navigate them with confidence. Whether you’re heading to the beach, commuting to work or running errands, safe driving practices can make all the difference in keeping you and your fellow drivers and pedestrians safe on the road.
John Giuffré represents Nassau County’s 8th Legislative District.
