We all know the feeling. You’re driving down the street, minding your own business, when suddenly you see those flashing red and blue lights in your rearview mirror. Before you know it, you’re being pulled over by a police officer and are about to receive a ticket. While most of us have probably broken at least one traffic law at some point or another, we all must take the time to learn what these laws are to avoid getting tickets and fines. After all, no one wants to spend their hard-earned money on something as trivial as a traffic ticket.
Following traffic laws is, of course, important whenever you are on the road, but even more so when you are a first time or learner driver who is soon to take their driving test. If you are a learner driver in the process of booking your test, be sure to check out a site like Driving Test Cancellations to see if you can find an earler slot to move your test closer once you feel confident on the road!
In this article, we will be discussing some of the basic traffic laws that every driver should know. We’ll also provide some tips on how you can avoid getting pulled over in the first place.
A Left Turn On a Red Light
While many drivers may be unaware of the law, motorcyclists are allowed to take a left turn on a red light in certain states. In Michigan, for example, this is perfectly legal as long as the cyclist comes to a complete stop and yields to oncoming traffic. The lawyers at https://www.davidchristensenlaw.com/michigan-car-accident-lawyer/left-turn-on-red-light-rules/ emphasize that there are a few important things to keep in mind if you’re planning on making a left turn on a red light. First of all, make sure that you come to a complete stop and check for oncoming traffic. If there is no traffic coming, proceed with your left turn. Remember to use your turning signals and take caution while making the turn.
A Safe Speed Limit
In most states, the maximum speed limit is 65 miles per hour. However, this can vary depending on the state that you’re in as well as the type of road that you’re driving on. For example, the speed limit on a highway is typically higher than the speed limit in a school zone. It’s important to always pay attention to the posted speed limits and follow them accordingly. If you’re caught speeding, you may be subject to a ticket or fine.
Driving Under the Influence
One of the most dangerous things that you can do while behind the wheel is to drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Not only is this illegal in all 50 states, but it can also lead to some serious consequences. If you’re caught driving under the influence, you could face jail time, a suspended license, and a hefty fine. In addition, your insurance rates will likely increase, and you may even be required to install an ignition interlock device in your car.
Using a Multi-lane Road
When you’re driving on a multi-lane road, it’s important to use the correct lane for the direction that you’re going. For example, if you’re turning left, you should be in the left lane. If you’re turning right, you should be in the right lane. It’s also important to yield to faster traffic when you’re in the passing lane. If you’re caught driving in the wrong lane or failing to yield to faster traffic, you could be subject to a ticket.
Passing Another Vehicle
When you’re passing a vehicle, it’s important to do so safely and with caution. You should use your turning signals to let the other driver know that you’re planning on passing them. Additionally, you should make sure that you have enough space to complete the pass before doing so. If you’re caught passing another vehicle illegally or unsafely, you could be ticketed.
Use the Centerline Correctly
When you’re driving on a two-lane road, it’s important to stay to the right of the centerline. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if you’re passing another vehicle, you should cross the centerline into the left lane. Additionally, if a vehicle is stopped on the side of the road, you should also cross the centerline to give them space. If you’re caught driving on the wrong side of the centerline, you could be subject to a ticket.
Following Too Closely
Following too closely, or tailgating is one of the most common reasons for getting pulled over. It’s important to leave enough space between your car and the one in front of you so that you have enough time to stop if they brake suddenly. Additionally, following too closely can also lead to accidents. If you’re involved in an accident due to tailgating, you could be held liable.
Use Your Turn Signals
Using your turn signals is one of the most important things that you can do while driving. Not only does it let other drivers know what you’re planning on doing, but it’s also the law in most states. If you fail to use your turn signals, you could be subject to a ticket or fine.
Yield to Pedestrians
When you’re driving, it’s important to always yield to pedestrians. This means that you should stop your car when they’re crossing the street and allow them to cross safely. If you don’t yield to pedestrians, you could be ticketed or even fined.
Unusual Laws
Some states have laws that are unique to them. For example, in Alaska, it’s illegal to drive with a beer in your hand. Additionally, in Hawaii, it’s illegal to honk your horn while you’re driving through a tunnel. In California driving around in your bathrobe is also not allowed. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the laws of the state that you’re driving in so that you don’t get ticketed for something that you didn’t know was against the law.
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It’s always a good idea to refresh your knowledge of the traffic laws in your country. Not only will this help keep you safe while driving, but it can also help you avoid getting ticketed for something that you didn’t know was against the law.
Driving is a privilege and not a right. We must understand this to maintain good driving habits on the road. Not only is this important for our safety, but also the safety of others. By following these basic traffic laws, we can help to make the roads a safer place for everyone.
