You've come to the USA and want to rent a car, but are unsure about the traffic rules in a different country? No worries, there's a solution. There are differences in the traffic rule system in America, but they are not drastic. If you know the key features of the traffic regulations in the USA, comfortable travel is assured.
Advantages of organizing a system of road rules in the USA
Features of the road rules in the United States exist, as in any other country. Guests of the country can be frankly surprised by some of the rules and regulations set in America. In order not to break the law due to ignorance, we suggest familiarizing yourself with some features in the American road rules.
The main thing, that underlies the American road rules — is a high level of consciousness of drivers. That is, permission to move to the right, absence of main roads and other nuances show the government's trust to drivers and confidence in their self-organization. Another proof of this — you will never be stopped by the police without a reason, "to check the documents." If the guardians of order paid attention to your car, then they noticed a violation.
The next advantage is a lot of tablets, which are designed to regulate traffic. It is not necessary to memorize a huge number of signs on the tablets, placed on roadside, all nuances on this segment of the road are painted. Inscriptions are found even on the road surface, warning, that it is impossible to travel here.
Failure to comply with road rules in the US is punishable by severe fines. Increasing the speed limit, parking in unauthorized places or driving in a state of intoxication — is a receipt with a number of several zeros. A bribe offer to a police officer is a real insult. Therefore, it is better to comply with the requirements.
Step-by-step guide: how to profitably rent a car in the USA
10 main features of American traffic rules
- 01.Right Turn on Red Signal
One of the first things newcomers notice in the USA is the always permitted right turn on red, even if the traffic light indicates otherwise. That is, if it doesn't create an obstruction to the traffic moving on green, one can confidently turn right. If the turn is prohibited, it will be indicated by a special "No turn on right" sign. - 02.Location of Traffic Lights
The placement of traffic lights is also unusual – they are located beyond the intersection for drivers. Especially at small intersections and during the night, one might drive up to it and be caught off guard. - 03.Priority of the STOP Sign
Unregulated intersections are a feature of residential areas in America, resulting in many small intersections between courtyards. They don't have traffic lights or priority signs, just a STOP sign on each side. Here, the right-of-way principle applies. That is, the one who approaches the intersection first, proceeds first. Thus, everyone passing the intersection will stop and look around, see every driver involved in the situation, and determine the order of passage. Accordingly, if you arrive first, other drivers will yield to you. - 04.Carpool Lane
In America, there are additional lanes marked with a diamond. They are designated for special types of transport, as always indicated. Separate lanes are allocated for: buses, cyclists, vehicles making a left turn, and cars with three or more people (carpool lane). The government encourages residents to ride together in one vehicle. Notably, motorcyclists and owners of hybrids or electric cars may use it solo. - 05.Stopping for a School Bus
It's mandatory to stop when a school bus is flashing red lights. You cannot continue driving until the lights stop blinking. Yellow lights indicate that the bus will soon stop, and drivers should be ready for it. Ignoring the stop is allowed only if the bus is moving and braking on the opposite lane, separated by a physical barrier. - 06.Fine for Parking in a Disabled Spot
Parking in a spot designated for disabled individuals is punished with a high fine — around $250. - 07.Alcohol
The presence of alcohol in the blood is measured not in the usual per mille but in BAC — Blood Alcohol Concentration. This is the ratio of alcohol content in the blood, taking into account body mass. A BAC level above 0.08 is a violation, followed by punishment: a fine, license revocation, or even imprisonment. Note that for individuals under 21 years old, the BAC must be up to 0.01. - 08.Alcohol Testing
An American police officer will determine the sobriety level visually: asking to walk along a line, touch the nose with closed eyes, and answer several questions. If the driver wants to dispute the cop's conclusion, they need to take an express analysis at the nearest hospital. No one blows into a tube there. - 09.Open Alcoholic Beverages in the Vehicle
Traffic rules in America prohibit having an uncorked bottle of alcoholic beverage in the vehicle. - 10.Bicyclists and Pedestrians
Finally, something fundamentally important in the US traffic rules is the unconditional priority of pedestrians and cyclists. Drivers must always give way to them, avoiding collisions.
Knowing the nuances of traffic rules in the United States, driving the country is a pleasure.American Butler
Rent a car in the USA with American Butler
The vast and colorful territory, the presence of highways, and a large number of attractions that you want to visit make a car an indispensable assistant in traveling. Therefore, renting a car in America is the right decision.
American Butler offers to rent a car and fulfill your dream — to reach Disneyland, visit the top of the Statue of Liberty, pop into the beaches of California, and stroll around Times Square. All this can be done in one vacation if you have a comfortable car at your disposal.
The American Butler car fleet has vehicles to suit every taste:
- with your favorite type of body;
- with various types of engines;
- with different passenger capacities;
- of any price category.
The company's staff will assist in processing the necessary documents and mandatory insurance. They can always provide information about toll roads, renting a navigator, a child car seat, or a card for automatic payment of tolls.
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