7 Tips For Renting and Driving a Car in Las Vegas
Written by
- Redaction Team
- Entrepreneurship, Remote Work
Renting and driving a car in Las Vegas can be convenient, but it can be a huge hassle too. All the congestion can make getting around difficult, especially if you aren’t familiar with Las Vegas streets.
Every year, thousands of people are killed in motor vehicle accidents on Nevada roads. You don’t want to be one of those people.
Get where you need to go in Las Vegas quickly and safely with these rental car driving tips.
Make Sure You Have Insurance
They always ask you when you’re renting a car if you would like to buy collision insurance. It can be expensive, which means it’s tempting to turn it down. However, in a place like Las Vegas, you definitely need that insurance.
But before you pay extra to the car rental company, check out your credit cards. Many cards offer a variety of perks, one of which is car rental insurance. If you have a credit card that covers you in the event of an accident, you don’t need to pay for the extra insurance at the car rental counter.
Get to Know the Car Before You Hit the Road
Every car is a little different. Buttons are located in different places that can be difficult to find when you’re used to driving a different car. The last thing you want is to end up in an accident because you were looking for the windshield wipers or the turn signal.
Take some time to get to know the car you just rented before you hit the road. Sit in the parking lot and look for important controls, like the windshield wipers, turn signal, and headlights. Don’t be afraid to drive around the parking lot a few times to get a feel for the way the car handles and how sensitive the brakes are.
You should adjust the seat and the mirrors too. The more you get settled in when you’re off the road, the safer you will be when you finally merge into traffic.
Don’t Change Your Mind Last Minute
Driving in a place like Las Vegas can be stressful and confusing. It can be tempting to dart between lanes to try and get to a show on time or turn on your turn signal at the last minute. These are the kinds of behaviors that can get you into an accident.
Don’t dart between lanes. It doesn’t save you any time, and it increases your chances of getting into an accident. Stay in one lane. If you do need to switch lanes, turn on your signal with plenty of warning.
About to miss your turn? Go down a block and come back around. It’s much better than abruptly turning on your turn signal, slamming on your brakes, and taking the turn.
Avoid Driving During Rush Hour
Just like any city, there are some times that are busier than others. If you can manage to avoid these times, you will be better off.
- Monday-Friday between 7:00am - 9:00am
- Monday-Friday between 4:00pm - 6:00pm
- Friday and Saturday between 6:00pm - 10:00pm
The Strip is always busy, no matter what the day or time. If you want to avoid traffic, try finding side streets and back roads to get around The Strip. Not only is it less stressful, but you may get to your destination faster, even though the driving distance is technically farther.
Be Patient With Pedestrians
There are a lot of people in Las Vegas, and a lot of those people don’t exactly know where they’re going. Vacationers tend to ogle the buildings as they cross the street, while others may dilly-dally as they’re trying to figure out where to go.
You’ll have to wait longer than you’re probably used to as pedestrians cross the street. Be patient. It’s better than accidentally hitting someone out of frustration.
Have to catch a show or have a dinner reservation? Do yourself a favor and leave a little earlier than you think you have to. That way, lackadaisical pedestrians aren’t the reason why you’re late or you get into an accident.
Know Where to Park
Parking isn’t as difficult to find in Las Vegas as you might think, but you do have to know where to look.
There are some parking spots available on most streets, if you are lucky enough to find one. Otherwise, you can fund public parking garages scattered along The Strip and on Freemont Street.
Strategize where you are parking for the day. If you park in between the attractions and activities you have planned for the day and walk, you can park in one spot without having to move your car around.
If you’re staying in a hotel, take advantage of their parking. Most have garages that can be used by guests. Many also offer valet services. All you have to do is know where to pull up and they’ll park your car for you.
Know Where to Get Gas
The last thing you want is to run out of gas because you can’t find a gas station!
Fortunately, there are plenty of gas stations in Las Vegas, but it can be tricky to find one if you’re nearing empty. Strive to find a gas station as soon as you hit a quarter of a tank. If you’re heading outside city limits, make sure you top off, to be safe.
And of course, make sure you top off the tank before you return your rental car!
Renting and driving a car can make it a little easier for you to get where you need to go in and around Las Vegas, but Sin City driving can also be stressful. Whether you’re staying on The Strip, venturing to Freemont Street, or you’ve got plans to drive to the Grand Canyon or the Hoover Dam, these tips will save you some stress and ensure you return the rental car in perfect condition.
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