Traffic Offenses in the USA – Driving in the United States can often feel like a game of Whack-a-Mole. As soon as you think you’ve avoided a speed trap, another appears. This is because the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has declared that any road where traffic exceeds 45 mph automatically becomes a “traffic control device” and must henceforth be marked accordingly. It doesn’t matter if you actually see any cars travelling at that speed. The FHWA simply deems it to be so, making it fair game for police officers to issue tickets at will. Driving in certain regions feels like an endurance test, as evidenced by the number of articles and blog posts dedicated to ways to avoid getting pulled over by police officers. Below you’ll find some of our favorite tips on how to stay off the radar while driving in the United States.
Do you know the traffic rules or laws of your country? Are you aware that there are numerous driving laws in place that are designed to protect other road users, pedestrians and ourselves? The roads in the US can be a minefield of hidden dangers. If you drive a car for a living or as a hobby, it’s crucial that you know what the most common traffic offenses are so that you don’t end up in any trouble with the law. Traffic violations are common and do not always result in penalties. However, if left unchecked, these violations will certainly lead to more serious consequences. It is important to familiarize yourself with the laws of your area so that you don’t make any unexpected wrong turns and end up hurting yourself or other road users.
Here we present 5 most common traffic offenses:
Stay Alert
Driving is an activity that requires constant and alert attention. However, if you are behind the wheel, you are also legally responsible for the actions of any other person who drives a vehicle on the road with you. This means that if you are reckless, you could get a traffic ticket. The best way to avoid a ticket is to stay alert behind the wheel and not be distracted by anything else while on the road. As a responsible driver, you must take care of your vehicle so that it runs well and gives you the best ride. When driving, keep your eyes on the road and use your high beams only when you need to see something in the distance.
Know The Rules of The Road
Traffic laws are created to keep all road users as safe as possible. Violating these laws is against the law, and you can be fined or even end up in jail. It is crucial that you know the traffic rules in your state. It is a good idea to memorize them because if you get into an accident, you may need to refer to them quickly. Below are some of the most common traffic laws:
– You must have a driver’s license before you are allowed to drive a vehicle. If you do not have a license, you are considered a pedestrian and must obey all pedestrian laws.
– You can’t drive while you have been drinking alcohol or using drugs.
– You must wear your seatbelt while driving. – You must drive on the right side of the road and not against oncoming traffic.
– You must follow the speed limit and not drive above the speed limit.
– You must stop at stop signs, red lights, and other traffic signs.
Share the Road
You may be tempted to drive faster than the speed limit because you think that the road is empty. However, it is important to remember that the road is meant for all road users, not just for you. When you are driving, you must be mindful that there are other people on the road. Not only are you sharing the road with other vehicles but also with pedestrians, cyclists, and other cyclists. If you drive too fast, you could easily hit someone else. When you are on the road, slow down and give other road users enough space. This will help to make the road a safer place for everyone.
Drive During Daily Off-Times
It is important to remember that you can’t drive when you have been drinking alcohol or using drugs. Not only will this get you into trouble with the police but it can also end up in an accident. It could even be fatal if you drive after consuming alcohol or drugs. You must also remember to drive safely when you are off-duty. For example, if you are not required to drive during the week, you should not drive on the weekend. It is also a good idea to stay off your vehicle when you have been drinking or using drugs. It is better to be safe than sorry.
Don’t Text and Drive
Driving while distracted is one of the major traffic offenses. There are numerous studies that have shown that drivers who text while driving are four times more likely to crash than drivers who aren’t distracted. It is important to stay focused on the road and not be distracted by anything while driving. If you want to avoid this major traffic violation, you should not send or read any text while driving. You can also use a hands-free phone system and turn off your phone’s ringer so that you aren’t tempted to check your phone while you are behind the wheel.
Bottom Line
Traffic violations are common and do not always result in penalties. However, if left unchecked, these violations will certainly lead to more serious consequences. It is important to familiarize yourself with the laws of your area so that you don’t make any unexpected wrong turns and end up hurting yourself or other road users. The best way to avoid a ticket is to stay alert behind the wheel and not be distracted by anything while on the road. You must also keep in mind that the road is for other road users, not just for you. If you follow these tips, you will drive safely and not get into many traffic violations. Now that you know the most common traffic offenses, you will be better prepared to avoid them.