Whether you are planning to take a road trip or you are moving to a different part of the country, understanding and adhering to the proper traffic laws is essential. Not only can this help you to avoid a hefty ticket, but the fact of the matter is that safety should always be the top priority while out and about. Still, these laws can vary from state to state and being prepared in advance is the best way to ensure a safe trip. Let’s look at some areas that should be determined as well as a handful of funny laws which illustrate just how strange some regulations can be.
Speed Limit Variations
This is the most noticeable difference from state to state, as speed limits can vary by 20 miles per hour or more. Higher limits tend to be associated with states in the southwest, as there is more open space and less traffic on open highways. Still, keep in mind that driving on surface streets could require you to slow down to between 25 and 45 miles per hour. Remain vigilant of when these limits change. This is particularly important if you are planning to use the interstate highway system (such as I-95), as different states are associated with different limits.
Legal Concerns
The driving age can also vary between states. If you have any young individuals on board, be sure that they are legal to drive in specific states. The drinking limit in terms of blood alcohol content (BAC) is also critical to note. While it is NEVER a good idea to get behind the wheel if you have had even a single drink, keep in mind that the associated alcohol levels are determine by the state as opposed to the federal government. If you do indeed get pulled over for driving while intoxicated, you could very well be charged with a felony and have your vehicle impounded. Regardless of the state in question, the police have no tolerance for drunk drivers. On a final note, some states allow the open carrying of a firearm while this is strictly prohibited in other regions. If you would like to learn more, consult with the appropriate authorities before leaving.
Each State to Its Own
One of the most interesting aspects of driving laws in the United States is that some areas are associated with some truly bizarre regulations. There are different traffic laws depending on the state, so you need to be informed about the laws where you are going to drive. You can see a funny infographic of weird traffic laws in Pennsylvania for example. All joking aside, knowing the proper rules regulations while out and about is a very important concern if you hope to have a safe journey. The good news is that there is a wealth of information available online, so always feel free to perform additional research as may be required.
