Drive safe



Local Knowledge

Speed Limit on Motorways
  • The speed limit in most states is 110 kmh (65 mph) except where signs indicate slower speeds
  • Speed limits are strictly enforced by radar in many states (especially the eastern highly populated areas)
  • Speeding in any road construction area is strictly enforced with very heavy penalties in most states
Speed Limit on Open Roads
  • The speed limit in most states is 110kmh (65 mph) except where signs indicate slower speeds
Speed Limit in Towns
  • The speed limit in front of every school is 17kmh (15 mph) when the warning lights are flashing
Alcohol Limit
  • Across most states in the USA laws against driving under the influence of alcohol are strict and follow a policy of zero tolerance
  • Motorists will also find that most states only allow alcohol to be transported in the boot of a vehicle
Road Tolls
  • The USA has an extensive system of interstate highways and state maintained roads
  • Some of the major highways are toll roads often called turnpikes, but most are free
Use of Mobile Phone Whilst Driving
  • Cell phone usage in vehicles is becoming illegal throughout the USA, but laws do vary by state
  • Some states do allow the use of hands free sets while driving
  • Please check with the rental agent
On the Spot Fines
  • Depending on the state, fines can be made on the spot for traffic offences
Seat Belts
  • It is compulsory for front seated occupants to wear seat belts
  • Children under the age of four years must be restrained in a child safety seat or by a seatbelt
  • The failure of motorists to wear seat belts and properly restrain young children in the vehicle are fineable offences
Traffic Light Regulations
  • Green – Go
  • Red – Stop
  • Yellow/Amber – Caution, stop is possible
  • Flashing Red – same as stop sign
  • Flashing Amber – proceed with caution
  • Flashing Green – advanced left turn only
Rush Hour in Built Up Areas
  • Rush hour in major citiy centres is from 0730 – 0930hrs and 1530 – 1900hrs
Fuel
  • Filling stations are abundant in the USA
  • It is actually a traffic offence in some states, such as California, to run out of fuel
  • Almost all filling stations accept major credit cards
Parking Advice
  • Metered parking is available to motorists and must be paid for the whole duration of the stay
  • Motorists who revisit to extend their stay at a parking space can be fined as this is regarded as meter feeding and is a fineable offence in many states in the USA
  • It is illegal for motorists to park within 10 feet of a fire hydrant or in front of a kerbside which has been lowered
  • Parking spaces are generally free on Sundays, Public holidays and out of business hours