LA Traffic: A Love Story (Kind Of)
So, you wanna know when traffic starts in LA? Let’s just say, it's like asking when the Kardashians started being famous - it's been happening for a while, and it doesn't seem to be stopping anytime soon.
Rush Hour: The Devil's Playground
The classic answer is: morning rush hour is generally between 7 AM and 10 AM, and evening rush hour is between 4 PM and 7 PM. But let's be real, this is LA we're talking about. Traffic here is like a stubborn toddler - it wakes up when it wants to. Sometimes it's up at 5 AM, throwing a tantrum on the 405. Other times, it's a lazybones sleeping in till 9 AM.
The Weekend Warrior
Don't think you're safe on weekends? Nope. While it's not as intense, LA traffic has a sneaky way of creeping up on you. You might think you're smart scheduling a brunch at 11 AM, but by the time you're done with your avocado toast, you'll be stuck in traffic that would make a snail jealous.
The Wild Card: Events and Weather
Want to really mess with the traffic gods? Plan a trip to LA during a major event like Coachella or Comic-Con. Or, how about visiting during rainy season? You'll quickly learn that Angelenos don't know how to drive in the rain. It's like watching a herd of newborn deer try to navigate an ice rink.
So, When Should You Drive?
The real answer is: never. Just kidding (kind of). The best bet is to avoid rush hour if possible. Use public transportation, carpool, or embrace the wonderful world of teleworking. But if you must drive, be prepared for the ultimate test of patience. And remember, road rage is never cool. Channel your inner zen and enjoy the forced meditation.
How to Conquer LA Traffic (Or At Least Survive It)
- How to choose the best time to drive: Avoid rush hours (7-10 AM and 4-7 PM) and weekends if possible.
- How to find alternative routes: Use traffic apps like Waze or Google Maps to find the least congested paths.
- How to stay calm in traffic: Listen to your favorite music, podcasts, or audiobooks. Deep breathing helps too.
- How to make the most of your time: Use traffic as an opportunity to catch up on calls, emails, or audiobooks.
- How to prepare for unexpected delays: Always have snacks, water, and a charger for your phone.