Is it safe to drive from east to west coast? are the highways good and not very deserted?

Question

i am planning to move to CA from maryland but was wondering if it is possible to drive? i am a little scared abt the fact that some state highways like in colorado and arizona will be too deserted and risky. is it possible to get gas and motels on every stretch of highways along the way? thanks in anticipation

Answer 1

Yes!

Answer 2

It's OK. I've driven from California to Texas on I-10 (had to cross Arizona), and my folks drove my car from New York to California on I-80 for me a few years ago. (Note I'm not a Californian and these are the only times I have done this). If you're going to go on I-80 you may want to go before it starts to get cold in the mountains (which I think happens in like early October) In fall or winter you may want to take a southern route so you don't run into I-80 getting closed for hours or more due to snow, or encounter safety problems due to snow in the mountains. My parents drove I-80 in winter and had no problems but right after they passed Nevada, the people traveling the next day had to stop due to a blizzard. So I recommend I-10 which has no weather problems in winter. When I drove on I-10 (a three day trip in January), it was warm and sunny. No snow or anything like that. Lots of great desert scenery but the road was mostly flat or had gentle long slopes. It's true there were some stretches that were pretty empty, especially in far west Texas, but: Get your car thoroughly fixed before the trip. Always have a cell phone; Always carry a can of Snap Fix-a-Flat; and Don't ever let the tank get below half full. If you're driving through a state with a lot of empty places, then you might do well to put gas in the car every chance you get.

Answer 3

I have driven from Maine to the west coast 8 times - since I turned 39 - Make sure your vehicle is in good working order - oil change, fluid levels, tires. Good extras to take:money (some cash - some travelers checks or credit card), water, cell phone,atlas, triple A, small pillow and blanket. Know how to check your fluids and tires and how to change a tire.I have driven most of the major routes, at this time of year I would drop down to 40 until I got passed Texas then drop down 10.The western part of Texas - goes on forever which can be boring and lull you into not paying attention.
Stop and get out and walk once in a while , your legs and feet tend to swell if you drive for too long without a break.
Be careful of who you speak to - do not give anyone a lift - if they look like they need help - notify someone by cell phone or at the next turn off.

Answer 4

Having made a similar move 3 years ago, I can assure you that the Interstates out west will NOT be deserted. Little local roads away from population centers may be empty, but you won't be taking those to traverse the country.

In general, the Interstate highways are well-maintained. I would be more concerned about the condition of your vehicle than the condition of the highways. Consider this: what is more likely to cause an interruption in your trip - the condition of the roads or the condition of your car?

Answer 5

Assuming you mean east to west coast of the USA, then yes, the highways are VERY good and heavily traveled.

It takes rather a lot of effort to find a deserted highway these days...

You might consider going in to the office of the AAA (American Automobile Association) and obtaining maps. If you're a member, they will not only provide you with maps, they will also highlight some suggested routes for you, given your specific interests or concerns.

Answer 6

No. The shortest you would be able to desire to tension around the U. S. might take approximately 37 hours of non-end using (Jacksonville to San Diego on I-10). The solar would have set and risen lower back for the time of that element, because of the fact the earth is going by an afternoon in 24 hours. Even the help from the time zone exchange won't help you with that.

Answer 7

Are you talking about in the US? If so, the highway system here is great (and free), but there are fewer interstate highways going east-west than north-south. Still, lots of folks do it and see the country.

Answer 8

No problem. Out west there may be some distance between exits, but by no means deserted. Depending on where and when you move should determine your route. They are all fine, but the weather should dictate.

Answer 9

I have taken 40 from NC to NV several times. It is a good summer route. Take 10 in the winter to avoid weather delays, but you'll spend almost forever in TX.

Answer 10

I'd say it's safe....the Rockies to the south aren't bad (I went LA to Vegas with little problem), then continue south, start wandering slowly north after Vegas(aiming toward Kansas City), then continue to Chicago, and from there it's quite easy and many interstates are well-traveled

Answer 11

There are some places you are a distance from hotels and towns, but for the most part there are places. The biggest risk is an accident.