Something which everyone who comes to Mexico City should bear in mind is just how many people there are living here. In fact this is one of the most densely populated cities on the planet, and you really do feel it when you are here.
If there is one place to see this more than anywhere else, it is driving on the streets, especially during the busier hours. Whenever my friends come and visit me I will always recommend that they use ride sharing apps, which are incredibly cheap. If however you do decide that you want to drive in Mexico City, here are just a few things which you should be on the lookout for.
Indicators
Simply put, directional signals on the cars here mean very little, and you should pay almost no mind to them. For example if you are looking to change lanes then you should certainly put your indicator on, but don’t expect anyone to really pay attention to it, because nobody is going to let you in. Another big bug bear of mine in the city is that many people fail to turn their indicators off, which can appear as though they are looking to change lanes or make a turn, when in fact they are not.
Motorcycles
There is a good proportion of motorcycles which stick to the rules of the road, but in the main they are a law unto themselves. Now there are many bikes in the city doing deliveries and such, and bikes are of course the quickest way to get around. The reason for this is that they are able to weave through traffic with ease, and they will suddenly appear from nowhere. This is why those who are driving cars have to be so careful here in the city, because you could not see one coming. My friend Rose Burillo who has spent her life in the city also reminded me that for the most part, if you make contact with a bike, it will be deemed as your fault, which is again why you have to be so careful.
Jumping Lights
It is not unusual at all to see cars jumping red lights when they think that they can go safely. What this means for anyone driving is that when things are quieter on the roads, for example in the night, then you must be sure that you are looking at all times for those jumping lights. This doesn’t happen all of the time but it can certainly happen, and that is exactly why you should make sure that you are always aware.
And finally you have to make sure that you are ready to be aggressive on the roads here. If you are not aggressive when making turns or changing lanes then you will find yourself in big trouble. It will take you a couple of days to get the hang of, but after that you will be absolutely fine, as long as you keep your wits about you.