Traveling? Here are the Top US Driving Laws that You Should Know!
If you plan to travel to the US, then it goes without saying that you should get a bit familiar with their driving laws. Even though you think you may not drive a car, keep in mind that the US is very big and, if you want to explore as much as possible on your own, then four wheels will help you a lot!
It also helps to have the number/contact information of a US car accident attorney, just in case something happens and you don’t know what to do.
If you have this and remember the things that we’ll tell you in just a sec, your US trip will be worry-free!
Common Driving Laws in the US
While some of you may be aware of the following laws, it’s safe to say that knowing just a couple of them won’t help you respect the US driving laws while you’re visiting the States.
Moreover, if you are visiting from the UK or other European countries, then some laws may be significantly different in the US. Let’s take a look!
- Driving is made strictly on the right side of the road. Moreover, you must always exist to the right unless there’s a specific exit that points you to the left.
- When it comes to general traffic, simple lines are used to mark different lanes of cars that move in the same direction.
- It’s the simple yellow lines that mark traffic that moves in opposite directions.
- Naturally, as in most other countries, solid lines mark a do not cross area – this means that you should stay in your lane. If you encounter a dotted line, then this means you are allowed to either pass other vehicles or change lanes.
- Do not honk regularly, even if you’re angry! In the US, you may actually be breaking the law if you honk too much or do so during the night.
- Both passengers and drivers must wear seat belts at all times while in traffic.
- If you encounter any type of bad weather or the sun has set down, then you must use the car’s headlights to assist you in traffic.
- In the US, the far right and left lanes are also used as a home for the slow and fast drivers. The far-right lanes are meant to accommodate slower traffic, while the left lanes are for faster traffic.
- Many of the US states come with a law that makes hitchhiking illegal – for both drivers and hitchhikers.
- When it comes to stop signs, your vehicle must come to a full stop before proceeding beyond the sign.
- As for many other countries, green means go, red means stop, and yellow means slowing down to a stop.
- There’s a series of laws regarding parking vehicles on streets of certain areas – such as neighborhoods and business and apartment complexes. In most cases, parking there as a stranger is illegal.
The Bottom Line
Obviously, the no drinking, texting, and driving at the same time law apply to every country in the world! If you respect this one and the ones we just mentioned, you’ll surely be safe on the road, while exploring the United States!
It is worth mentioning that, as a driving traveler, the best you can do to fully stay out of trouble is to strictly respect the driving laws. If you’re unsure about something, simply find a police officer and ask them the question – they’ll gladly give you an informed reply that will help you stay safe!