Commonly Forgotten Traffic Laws in America

Commonly Forgotten Traffic Laws in America


November 16, 2023 | Sammy Tran

Commonly Forgotten Traffic Laws in America


Commonly Forgotten Traffic Laws 

Police officers writing ticketsCollins Media KS, Shutterstock

Traffic laws in America help ensure safe and orderly roadways, but let's be honest, many of us forget or misunderstand some of these rules.

Whether it's due to complacency or simply not being aware, it's essential to refresh our knowledge to keep our roads safe for all.

So, let's take a journey through 10 traffic laws in America that people often forget, with a friendly reminder to help us become better-informed drivers.

No U-Turns Near Intersections

Traffic signderek, Adobe Stock

You're cruising down the road, and you suddenly realize you missed your turn at the last intersection. It might be tempting to whip out a quick U-turn, but be careful.

Most states prohibit making U-turns near intersections, especially if they are controlled by traffic lights or signs.

So, next time you miss your turn, stay patient and find a safe place to turn around further down the road.

Advertisement

The 'Move Over' Law

Patients Faking ItShutterstock

Many states have 'Move Over' laws requiring drivers to change lanes or slow down when approaching emergency vehicles stopped on the side of the road with their lights flashing.

This law is often forgotten, but it's crucial to protect our first responders and highway workers. So, when you see those flashing lights, make sure to move over and give them the space they need.

Stop for School Buses

Revenge Stories factsShutterstock

We all know we should stop when a school bus has its red lights flashing and stop sign extended. However, this rule is often ignored.

In the U.S., more than 100 children lose their lives each year while getting on or off school buses. Let's not forget to stop, as the safety of our young passengers is at stake.

Keeping Right Except to Pass

Insta-Karma factsShutterstock

The left lane on highways is often called the "fast lane," but it's not for cruising. In many states, it's not permitted to hang out in the left lane if you're not actively passing slower traffic.

So, if you're not passing, make room for those who are by moving to the right lanes.

Advertisement

No Texting at Red Lights

The Dumbest People EverShutterstock

Sure, you might not be moving, but texting at a red light can still be against the law in some states. Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents, so it's best to put down the phone when you're behind the wheel, even if you're idling at an intersection.

Turn Signals for Lane Changes

That’s How That Works factsShutterstock

Changing lanes without signaling is not only discourteous, but it's also not permitted by state laws. In most states, you're required to use your turn signals when changing lanes or making a turn. It's a simple act that can prevent accidents and road rage.

Obeying 'No Turn on Red' Signs

Traffic sign at intersectionAlberto GV PHOTOGRAP, Adobe Stock

Those 'No Turn on Red' signs are there for a reason, but they're often overlooked. Disobeying them can lead to accidents or traffic tickets. Always pay attention to posted signs and signals.

Advertisement

Headlights in the Rain

Driving at nightEgor Kamelev, Pexels

Rainy days can make visibility challenging. Some states require drivers to turn on their headlights when it's raining, even during daylight hours. It's a simple step that can improve your visibility and help others see you.

Yield to Pedestrians

Supernatural Experiences FactsShutterstock

Pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks, and we often forget this. Remember to stop and yield to pedestrians when they're in a crosswalk, even if you're making a turn.

Right-of-Way Rules

Weirdest Things Seen In Public FactsShutterstock

Right-of-way rules can be a bit confusing, and they often slip our minds. But remember, when in doubt, yield the right of way to prevent accidents. Understanding these rules can help avoid dangerous situations on the road.

Advertisement

Final Thoughts

KarmaPexels

Traffic laws may sometimes be forgotten, but they're in place for a reason: to keep us all safe. Let's make a conscious effort to refresh our knowledge and be better-informed drivers.

It's a simple step that can make a world of difference on our roads.


READ MORE

Porsche_550_Spyder

Anyone Remember These Classic Celebrity Cars From The 1950s?

Hollywood stars didn’t just own cars—they drove icons. Cadillacs, Ferraris, and Rolls-Royces defined an era where each ride matched its celebrity driver’s personality. So, which vehicles appealed to the stars of Hollywood’s Golden Age?
April 1, 2025 Peter Kinney
Lamborghini Miura

A Look Inside The Lamborghini Miura, One Of History's Most Legendary Automobiles

Elegance and power rarely align, yet the Lamborghini Miura mastered both. Its bold debut stunned rivals, while its innovations in design, performance, and engineering continue to inspire automotive icons today.
April 1, 2025 Peter Kinney
Peugeot

The Strange Evolution Of Bicycles (With Photos)

What started as a hobbyhorse for the rich has spun into a universal mode of transport. Bicycles have seen it all: Fashion trends, wars, technological breakthroughs, and more. They've evolved with style and HOW.
January 2, 2025 Miles Brucker
Oldsmobile Aerotech

Concept Cars That Never Touched The Streets

Automakers have crafted extraordinary machines that pushed boundaries yet never reached production. Be it the high-speed marvels or avant-garde designs, these forgotten legends remain dreams that never touched the streets.
April 2, 2025 Peter Kinney
Internalfb Image

22 Classic Cars From The 1970s

The 70s gave zero apologies and fewer explanations for its automotive madness. Detroit panicked, Japan advanced, and Europe experimented. Yet somehow, despite economic chaos, they created machines we still obsess over half a century later.
April 2, 2025 Alex Summers
The Ricer Corvette Abandoned in Japan

An Inside Look At An Abandoned Car Graveyard Found In A Japanese Rice Field

Imagine exploring vast Japanese rice fields, and then you stumble upon a set of abandoned American cars. How did they get here, and what is the story? Folks, brace yourself; it gets interesting.
February 3, 2025 Peter Kinney