Driving in Los Angeles

The city of Los Angeles was designed with the automobile in mind and is more driver-friendly than most big cities in the US. With lots of freeways and wide local roads, a lot of Southern California visitors also find it convenient to drive from place to place. Just remember Los Angeles is a major metropolitian area and subject to traffic jams during rush hours.

If you decide to drive in LA, here are a few things to keep in mind.

Here are a few things to keep in mind if you decide to drive.

1. You must have valid driver's license and liability insurance to legally drive within the state of California.

2. Child seats are a requirement for children weighing under 60 pounds or for children under the age of 6 years old.

3. Driving while intoxicated is illegal and anyone caught driving with a blood alcohol level of .08% or greater will be immediately arrested.

4. Seat belts are mandatory when your vehicle is in motion.

5. Car pool lanes are for vehicles with two or more passengers. (Infants count, pets do not!) To enter or exit the carpool lane properly and legally you must wait until the broken white line appears. If you cross the double yellow line to get in or out of a carpool lane you will be given aticket and a stiff fine of $271.00.

6. It is against the law to drive on California roads while talking on your cell phone. All drivers must use a hands-free device.

7. If possible, avoid rush hour traffic, which is heaviest from 7am to 10am and 3pm to 7pm.

California Driving Distance (Miles/KM)

How far is Santa Monica CA from other neighboring cities and attractions? Use the chart below to figure out the distance in miles and kilometers.

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