Driving Rules in the US
Stop signs are international… but before you get behind the wheel in the land of big cars and large roads, you should know all about driving rules in the US? Even though some traffic rules are the same as in other countries, here is a list of must-know rules you should be aware of before getting behind a wheel in the US.
Turning on a red light
In the United States, people are always in a hurry, so instead of wasting people’s time they got the great idea to not let people wait at the light when they don’t need to! So here is what you need to know: If you are turning right at a stop light, you can actually turn even tough the light is red. The red light in that case is like a stop sign. But be careful, you must make sure no one is coming from your left side nor in front of you turning left (for them), and of course don’t forget people crossing – they have the right of way!! Also you need to make sure it no sign forbids you to turn on red. The same is true for turning left from a one-way street into a one-way street.
Stop Signs in the US
If you come from Europe you are used to traffic circles…. well, they are not very common here in the US! So what are the traffic rules, when 3 or 4 roads cross? It is really simple. The first car that arrives goes first! You will ask then, ok what if we arrive at the same time? Then the car to your right has priority. You will be impressed how well educated American drivers are! But when you approach an intersection, remember to look for cars coming from the left as well!
Passing on the Left Lane on the Freeway
Unfortunately for foreigners, not every state has the same rules when it comes to passing other cars on the freeway. Certain states allow you to pass cars on either side – left or right- to your convenience ( such as California). Other forbid passing on the right. As to the left lane, certain states do not allow slower traffic on the let lane and reserve it for passing. The State “Keep Right” Laws link gives you a full description of which state allows what.
Emergency Vehicles
If you hear sirens and see light flashing, do you know what you should do? The traffic rule in the US is to yield to the right and let them pass, where ever you are. Traffic must stop to let them pass. Just stay out of their way. Every one will get back on the road and keep going once they are passed.
Phones
When you are stuck in traffic or on your way somewhere, it often seems the best time to make a call. Well not really. Most states have banned cell phone use in the car, unless a hands free system is used. But of course here again, they are not making it easy for you drivers, and kept it a federal law, so not all states have the same rules. Cell Phone Driving Laws gives you in detail per state the rules and regulation concerning this topic. Oh! By the way, this include text messaging as well!
School Buses
You probably know the famous yellow school buses from American movies. These school buses have special rights on the streets to ensure the safety of the children on board. When a school bus stops, it will flash red lights and extend a small stop sign! This means, you have to stop behind the bus and cannot pass. The same is true for oncoming traffic, unless the road is divided.
Okay, now you are all set to hit the road with your rental car in the US. Open you eyes for red lights non turning sign, don’t be in a hurry at the stop sign, and keep you ears open for sirens. And if you can wait for that so important phone calls remember someone might be passing that same car you’re passing from the right!
Have a safe drive.
PS: Certain countries offer you the possibility to get an international driver license. It might help you rent a car more easily and help you with insurance. Check with your town hall or Department of Motor Vehicles.
