The NHTSA reported that in Q1 2024, an estimated 8,650 people died in traffic crashes. Considering that back in 2017, the IIHS also released a sobering 2024 traffic death projection that actually exactly matches this pace, it’s a good idea for all of us grown-ups to review some near-universal traffic laws. If you’re like me, it’s been some time (a couple of decades, anyway). Here are 12 driving rules you might have forgotten since getting licensed.
We’ll start with crosswalks and stop signs.
When approaching a crosswalk, you must stop for pedestrians
Even if the crosswalk isn’t marked, pedestrians have the right of way in most cases. My daughter is six and just learned to ride her bike without training wheels. In warm weather, we ride bikes to school (she uses the sidewalk).
For the love of God, people, the number of times we have to sit at a crosswalk and carefully (!) wait for SUVs not paying attention (or being flat-out rude) roll through their stop sign or even turn into our pedestrian walk signal without checking for our presence…shew. My heart sinks nearly every morning over this stuff, and I can’t take it. Let folks cross safely, please.
Here’s the correct way to get through a four-way stop
At a four-way stop, the first vehicle to arrive has the right of way. If two vehicles arrive at the same time, the one on the right goes first. If two vehicles face each other, both can go straight. If one is turning, though, the one going straight has the right of way. Read below on the importance of signaling!
Also, at a stop sign, just accept that you have to come to a “complete” stop
No rolling through. A full stop means your wheels stop moving entirely. Rolling stops can lead to accidents (and tickets).
Let’s move on to highway driving:
When merging onto a highway, use the entire merge lane to get up to speed
Don’t just stop or slow down at the end of the ramp. This helps you blend smoothly into traffic.
The left lane is for passing, not cruising
If you’re driving in the left lane, it should be temporary and for the purpose of passing. If you happen to be hanging out on the left and someone wants to pass, move over. Even if you’re going the speed limit, hogging the left lane causes all sorts of funny traffic hiccups. This can include road rage. To boot, it’s against the law in many states.
Quit tailgating
While we’re on the subject, even if someone is hogging the left lane, don’t tailgate. Remember the “three-second rule.” Keep at least three seconds of distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you. Increase this distance in bad weather or heavy traffic. Tailgating is just dangerous for everyone nearby and can instigate unfortunate road rage incidents.
Don’t ever pass with solid lane lines
A solid line means no passing, period. Even if the road looks clear, don’t cross that solid line. It’s there for a reason, including blind spots and hidden driveways.
Did y’all go to Safety Town as a kid? Let’s go over some safe driving concepts while we’re all here together:
You should always signal before you turn or change lanes
Sure, you know where you’re going…but everyone else around you doesn’t.
Move over for stopped vehicles
If you see a vehicle stopped on the side of the road, especially one with flashing lights (like police cruisers or tow trucks), move over a lane if possible. If you can’t, slow down.
And always yield to emergency vehicles
When a first responder approaches with lights and sirens, you need to pull over to the right and stop. If you’re in an intersection, clear it first, then pull over. Stay put until the vehicle passes.
Check for local hands-free device laws
Many states now forbid holding a phone (to text or take a call) while driving. Holding your phone or other electronics can lead to fines or, worse, distracted driving accidents.
Turn on your headlights when it’s raining, snowing, or foggy
It’s not just for your visibility; it helps others see you, too. Some states require headlights when windshield wipers are in use.
We all could use a refresher on the art of driving every once in a while. Here’s hoping we’ll remember all of the above when we’re on the road again.
