If you want a quick answer on how to cross the street in Mexico City, always be careful and always look both ways to make sure it’s safe to cross. However, there are more things to be learned.
In Mexico, there is a huge manual of traffic regulations, road etiquette, and penalties. Despite this, no one has read it (not even me) and so most people don’t know how to drive well. The best thing you can do here is to learn how to cross the street in Mexico City safely.
Are you wondering how people learn about street regulations? Well, sometimes the government makes campaigns to teach people street etiquette. But the truth is that most of us learn by imitating each other or by word of mouth.
The good news is that you’ll learn how to cross the street in this article. I’ll tell you about every basic street etiquette and its unwritten rules. Let’s jump into it.
How to know the way
To know which direction the cars should be coming from, you have to look for the “one-way” arrows on the buildings, (sometimes you can find the arrow in the name of the street sign). This is because there are no proper signs to know which direction the cars should be coming from before crossing safely.
How to cross an intersection
When it comes to big avenues, such as Paseo de la Reforma or Insurgentes you should follow the pedestrian signal and cross using the crosswalk. And, please, always look both ways and make sure there are no vehicles. There might be someone who doesn’t abide by the rules and won’t stop at a red light.
Intersections with no traffic lights or crosswalks
If possible, look for a crosswalk whenever you can. In case you can’t find any, look both ways and make sure it’s safe to cross. Pro tip: Wait until more pedestrians gather to cross the street together. This way, drivers will stop to give way. Yes, they might not stop for one person, but they will for a bunch of people.
Beware of cyclists and motorbikers
Motorcycles and pedal bikes (especially food delivery drivers) don’t think that the laws apply to them. They will almost always run red lights and speed through traffic. So, beware. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!
How to cross small streets
You can cross smaller streets safely wherever you like, as long as you are careful. Again, I know it’s common sense, but look both ways before crossing.
Pedestrian tunnels or bridges
Whenever possible use pedestrian tunnels or bridges. As an exception to this rule, avoid them when it’s dark and there are few people around.
Right of way, who crosses the street first
According to Mexican traffic regulations, pedestrians have the right-of-way, but this is only a theory. Unfortunately, drivers feel entitled to be the kings of the street and won’t give way. So much so, that it’s very common to see pedestrians speeding up when a car is kind enough to give way.
Beware of machetes!
When using a crosswalk beware of acrobats juggling machetes! Just try not to walk to close them, as they might injure you accidentally …on purpose. Jokes aside, it’s better to be safe and keep your distance.
Sewers
Last but not least, watch your step and avoid falling into sewers. Sometimes the caps are missing or broken and sewers can become mortal traps.
Conclusion
As in any city in the world, you have to be careful when you cross the street, and Mexico City is no exception. Remember to be careful and don’t be overconfident that the next driver is going to stop to give way.
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