America is a huge country with a lot of variation from state to state. Generally, there are different laws in each state, but there are also national laws that all states must follow. These rules are implemented to keep everyone safe on the roads and ensure traffic flows smoothly. Everyone is expected to follow the rules of the road, whether they are pedestrians, bicyclists, motorcyclists, or drivers.
While the rules of the road may be similar, there are definitely some differences that you need to be aware of before you hit the open road. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of 6 driving rules that are universal throughout the USA.
Obey the posted speed limit
Following the posted speed limit is one of the most crucial road rules in the USA. Driving too fast puts yourself and your passengers at risk and endangers other drivers and pedestrians. In addition, exceeding the speed limit can result in a traffic violation, which can lead to fines or points added to your driving record.
It is crucial to always be aware of your surroundings and adjust your speed accordingly, such as slowing down in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic or poor visibility. Remember, driving at a safe and legal speed keeps you compliant with the law and, more importantly, helps ensure everyone’s safety on the road.
Always yield to pedestrians
When operating a motor vehicle, it is imperative to remember that pedestrians always have the right of way. That means yielding to them when crossing the street or your path, even if you have a green light or the right of way in other circumstances. Additionally, slow down or stop pedestrians using wheelchairs, scooters, crutches, or assistive devices.
When in doubt, err on caution and yield to pedestrians. Failing to do so can result in injury or death for the pedestrian and leave you facing legal consequences. So always keep an eye out for pedestrians and remember that they come first on the road.
Don’t drink and drive
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), almost 30 people die daily from DUI-related crashes. If you choose to drink and drive, you risk getting a DUI charge and face possible jail time, loss of license, and expensive fines. It is simply not worth it. So please, make wise decisions and never drink and drive. Have a designated driver or consider alternative transportation options such as Uber or Lyft.
Don’t let one mistake ruin your life or the lives of others – it’s not worth it. And if you do find yourself facing DUI charges, seek out a qualified DUI lawyer who can help defend your case in court. You need someone who can navigate the complex legal system and work to get the best possible outcome for your situation.
Use your turn signal
Proper use of your turn signal is essential to follow the rules of the road in the USA. Not only does it indicate to other drivers your intentions to change lanes or make a turn, but it also helps to prevent accidents and keeps traffic flowing smoothly.
Intersections can be hazardous places, and utilizing your turn signal allows for better communication with other drivers. In addition, many states have laws in place that require the use of turn signals when changing lanes on highways and freeways. Failing to signal can result in fines and demerits on your driving record.
Don’t tailgate
One important rule of the road in the United States is to avoid tailgating or following too closely behind another vehicle. While it may seem innocuous, tailgating can lead to severe accidents and put both the tailgater and the car at risk. In addition to causing rear-end collisions, tailgating can cause a driver to lose control or react too slowly in hazardous situations such as sudden slowdowns or stops.
To practice safe driving and avoid tailgating, the recommended distance is to have at least one car length for every 10 miles per hour you are traveling. So, if you are going 60 miles per hour, maintain a six-car length distance from the vehicle ahead of you. Remember: it’s always better to err on the side of caution and leave extra space between vehicles on the road.
Don’t cut people off
We’ve all been there—you’re in a hurry, and someone is driving slowly in front of you, so you decide to pass them on the right without signaling first—but resist the urge! Cutting people off is one of the quickest ways to piss someone off while driving—and it’s also dangerous because they may swerve into your lane or even hit their brakes out of anger, which could cause an accident behind you as well. Obeying these rules will help ensure everyone stays safe on America’s roads—including yourself! So remember: always drive safely, courteously, and within relevant laws!
The bottom line
These six basic rules should help make your experience driving in America much smoother! Obeying these rules will help ensure everyone stays safe on America’s roads—including yourself! So remember: always drive safely, courteously, and within relevant laws! Happy (and safe) trails!
