Driving in New York

A car is not necessary to visit Manhat­tan: public transportation is efficient and many sights can be reached easily on foot. Keep in mind that roads are usually congested, public parking lots expensive and street parking extremely difficult to find. Rush hours, the peak transit times for business commuters, occur weekdays between 7am-9am and 4:30pm-6pm. It's best to avoid driving during these times. As of August, 2004, no commercial traffic may enter the city via the Holland Tunnel; only commercial traffic exiting the city can use it. Also, there are sig­nificant restrictions on vehicular traffic below Canal Street; if you're visiting downtown neighborhoods, use public transportation if possible.

ROAD REGULATIONS

The maximum speed limit on major expressways is 65mph in rural areas and 55mph in and around cities. Speed limits in the city range from 25mph in residential areas to 30mphon major streets. Use of seat belts is mandatory for driver and passengers in the front seat of the car, and children under 16 years old in the back seat. Child safety seats are required for children under 4 years (seats are available from most rental-car agencies). In New York City, unless otherwise posted, drivers are not permitted to turn right on a red traffic light. The majority of streets in Manhattan are one-way (traffic flows in one direction only). In New York it is illegal to drive with a mobile phone in your hand; you must connect your phone to a hands-free device.
Parking - If you are successful in obtaining street parking, pay close attention to signs indicating restrictions. Parking is prohibited during posted street-cleaning times. Parking in some residential areas is by permit only (restricted to area residents). Vehicles are systematically towed for violations. If you believe your car has been towed, dial 311 (the city government's information line), or 212-639-9675 if you are outside the city, to find out. The Manhattan Tow Pound is located at Pier 76 (W. 38th St. at Uth Ave.; 212-971-0772; www.nyc.govj. For parking violations, call the city's government's information line (dial 311). Spaces identified with a wheelchair symbol are reserved for people with disabilities only. Anyone parking in these spaces without proper identification is subject to a heavy fine. Privately operated parking garages are abundant throughout the city; rates range from $6-$15/hr.

Rental Cars - Major car-rental compa­nies have offices in Manhattan, in the outer boroughs, and at the three New York City area airports. Most agencies will only rent to persons at least 25 years old, although some will rent to younger drivers for a daily surcharge. A major credit card and valid driver's license are required (some agencies also require proof of insurance). Most rental companies offer seasonal discounts and accept membership privileges. The average daily weekday rate for a compact car, with unlimited mileage, ranges from $65-$107. Weekly rates (5 days) for a compact car begin around $230. Note that rental cars are taxed 13.62% (not included in the advertised rate).

Alamo
800-327-9623
www.alamo.com

Avis
800-331-1212
www.avis.com

Budget       
800-527-0700
www.budget.com

Dollar         
800-800-4000
www.dollar.com

Enterprise   
800-325-8007
www.enterprise.com

Hertz
800-654-3131
www.hertz.com

National      
800-227-7368
www.nationalcar.com

Thrifty        
800-331-4200
www.thrifty.com

Many limousine and executive car-service companies offer transport within the city and to the boroughs and will customize an itinerary for a day to suit any visitor's needs.

TOLL CROSSINGS
(for more information: www.mta.nyc.ny.us)