Getting Around LA: Traffic & Directions
Monday, August 2nd, 2010 Tags: driving, google maps, sig alert, traffic
Category: LA Adventures, Moving Up, Tips n' Tricks 1 Comment 
Traffic. It’s annoying, unpredictable, a constant topic of conversation and everyone’s favorite excuse for being late in this town. Just because it’s acceptable for others or even your boss doesn’t mean it counts for you.
Always call ahead if you’re running late, depending on the situation at least a 15 min heads up is best. The last thing you want is someone calling and asking where you are. It’s hard to get second chances out here, don’t let traffic screw you up.
“If you’re on time, you’re already late.”
This is especially true for those freelancers out there. You’re locations are changing everyday and a big part of your reputation is built upon when you show up.
There are two main options when it comes to staying on top of traffic: Sig Alert and Google Maps. Both of these services are fairly reliable, their information is based off of senors built into the roads as well as car and taxi fleets.
As your heading out the door or if you’re lucky enough to have it on your phone always check traffic and plan your route.
Online directions DON’T account for traffic: Even though Google Maps or your GPS may have traffic info doesn’t mean it’s taken into account when planning your route. If you’re heading to Santa Monica from Hollywood they will all pretty much tell you to drive down Santa Monica Blvd (which is pretty much the worst idea during the day). Always use your brain and don’t become fully dependent on technology. What if your phone dies or your GPS gets stolen? Can you get back to the office or figure out your next run based on cross streets? If you can’t, you’ve got some homework to do.
Don’t be afraid to leave a little early or take some free time and step off the beaten path, it’s the best way to learn your way around.
Bottom line: Always use your head when it comes to directions and don’t risk it when see RED on the freeways, I don’t care how many times you’ve driven there at that time of day, nine times out of ten the traffic sites are right.
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