Traffic Law FAQ Center

You can legally cross double yellow lines in most states to make left turns into driveways, parking lots, or side streets. You cannot cross them to pass other vehicles. Some states also allow crossing when directed by law enforcement or for emergency vehicles. Always check your specific state laws as exceptions may vary. Example: You're driving on a two-lane road with double yellow lines. You need to turn left into your driveway or a restaurant parking lot. This is legal - you can cross the double yellow lines to complete the turn. However, if there's a slow-moving tractor ahead and you're tempted to cross the double yellow lines to pass it, that would be illegal and could result in a citation.

Broken (dashed) yellow lines indicate that passing is allowed when safe to do so. If the broken line is on your side of the road, you may pass after checking for oncoming traffic. If the broken line is on the opposite side, vehicles coming from the other direction may pass, but you cannot.

Solid white lines discourage lane changes but don't legally prohibit them in most states. However, you should avoid crossing solid white lines except in emergency situations or when absolutely necessary. Double solid white lines are more restrictive and should never be crossed.

California HOV (carpool) lanes require 2+ occupants during posted hours (typically weekday rush hours 6-10 AM and 3-7 PM). Clean Air Vehicle (CAV) decal holders may use HOV lanes solo until program expiration. White dashed lines indicate entry/exit zones; double white lines prohibit crossing. Motorcycles and buses can always use HOV lanes. Violations result in $490+ fines. Some HOV lanes operate 24/7.

Posted speed limits are displayed on signs and represent the maximum legal speed under normal conditions. Prima facie (or "basic") speed limits are default speeds for certain road types (like 25 mph in residential areas) even without signs. You must always drive at a safe speed for conditions, which may be slower than posted limits.

School zone speed limits typically apply when children are present or during posted hours (usually 30 minutes before and after school sessions). Many states use flashing lights or electronic signs to indicate active school zones. Speed limits often drop to 15-25 mph in these areas, with doubled fines for violations.

Yes, many states have minimum speed limits on interstate highways, typically 40-45 mph. Driving significantly below the speed limit can be dangerous and may result in a citation for impeding traffic flow. Farm equipment and other slow-moving vehicles often have special provisions or must use designated lanes.

Right turn on red is prohibited throughout New York City unless specifically allowed by signs. Some other cities and intersections also prohibit it with "No Turn on Red" signs. Areas with heavy pedestrian traffic, complex intersections, or limited visibility commonly restrict right turns on red.

Yellow light duration varies by intersection but typically ranges from 3-6 seconds, depending on the speed limit and size of the intersection. The purpose is to provide adequate warning time to safely stop or clear the intersection. You should not speed up to "beat" a yellow light.

Treat a flashing red light as a four-way stop sign. Come to a complete stop, yield to traffic that arrived first, and proceed when safe. This typically occurs when traffic signals malfunction or during low-traffic periods at certain intersections.

Right turn on red is prohibited throughout all five NYC boroughs (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, Staten Island) unless specifically allowed by a sign. This citywide ban protects pedestrians in high-density areas. Outside NYC, right on red is legal after complete stop unless posted "No Turn on Red." NYC violations: $50-$200 fine. Drivers must watch for signs that say "Right Turn on Red Permitted" at specific intersections.

"Don't Block the Box" prohibits entering an intersection (the "box") unless you can completely clear it before the light turns red. Applies even if light is green when you enter. NYC strictly enforces this with cameras at gridlock alert zones. Blocking the box causes traffic jams. Fines: $50-$150. Manhattan has painted boxes at major intersections. Also illegal to block crosswalks, even partially.

Most states require parking at least 15 feet away from fire hydrants. Some jurisdictions require up to 20 feet. Violations typically result in fines of $100-$300 and possible towing. The distance is measured from any part of your vehicle to any part of the hydrant. Practical measurement: 15 feet is approximately the length of a standard sedan (about 15-16 feet). If you can't fit another car between your vehicle and the hydrant, you're too close. Real case: A driver parked what they thought was "far enough" from a hydrant - about 10 feet. They returned to find their car towed and a $250 citation. The towing fee was $400, plus $50/day storage. Total cost: $700 for the first day. Pro tip: When in doubt, choose a different spot - fire hydrant violations are strictly enforced and parking enforcement officers carry measuring tapes.

Disabled parking spaces require a valid disabled parking placard or license plate. Violations typically result in fines of $250-$500 and possible towing. You must display the placard from the rearview mirror or dashboard, and the person named on the placard must be traveling in the vehicle.

About 19 states require helmets for all motorcycle riders, while others have age or experience requirements. New York requires helmets for all riders. California requires helmets for all riders. Texas requires helmets only for riders under 21 or those without proper insurance/training. Always check specific state requirements.

Most HOV lanes require 2 or more occupants (HOV 2+), while some require 3 or more (HOV 3+) during peak hours. Motorcycles are typically allowed regardless of occupancy. Some clean air vehicles with special decals may also qualify. Check signs for specific requirements and operating hours.

Yes, bicycles are considered vehicles in most states and must follow the same traffic laws as motor vehicles. This includes stopping at red lights and stop signs, yielding right-of-way, and riding in the same direction as traffic. Bicycles should ride as far right as practicable but may use the full lane when necessary for safety.

Point systems vary by state, but accumulating too many points can result in license suspension, increased insurance rates, and mandatory driver education courses. Points typically remain on your record for 2-7 years. Different violations carry different point values, with serious offenses like reckless driving carrying more points. Real accumulation example: John (California driver) received a speeding ticket (1 point) in March, ran a red light (1 point) in July, and had an at-fault accident (1 point) in October. With 3 points in 12 months, his insurance premium increased by 40% - from $150/month to $210/month, costing an extra $720/year. If he gets one more point within 12 months, he faces a 6-month license suspension. After 18 months with no new violations, his oldest point dropped off. Points impact more than just suspension - insurance companies check your record every 6-12 months and adjust rates accordingly.

Most states participate in interstate compacts that share traffic violation information. An out-of-state ticket will typically appear on your home state driving record and may affect your license and insurance rates. Ignoring out-of-state tickets can result in license suspension in both states.

Traffic school (also called defensive driving courses) can often reduce or eliminate points from your record, reduce fines, and prevent insurance rate increases. Availability and benefits vary by state and violation type. Some states allow online courses, while others require in-person attendance.

At four-way stops, the vehicle that arrives first has the right of way. If vehicles arrive simultaneously, the vehicle on the right has the right of way. If vehicles are directly across from each other, the vehicle going straight or turning right has the right of way over the vehicle turning left. Real-world scenario: You arrive at a four-way stop at the same time as a car to your right. That car has the right of way - you must wait. Another example: You arrive first and plan to turn left, while a car arrives second across from you planning to go straight. You have the right of way because you arrived first. However, if you both arrived simultaneously and you're turning left while they're going straight, they have priority.

Move Over laws require drivers to change lanes away from stopped emergency vehicles with flashing lights. If changing lanes isn't possible, drivers must slow down significantly. The law applies to police, fire, ambulance, tow trucks, and maintenance vehicles. Violations can result in significant fines and points. Practical example: You're driving in the right lane of a three-lane highway at 65 mph. You see a police car stopped on the shoulder ahead with flashing lights. Step 1: Check your mirrors and blind spot. Step 2: Signal and safely merge into the middle lane, maintaining a safe distance. Step 3: Return to the right lane once you've passed. If you cannot change lanes (heavy traffic in middle lane), you must reduce speed - typically to at least 20 mph below the posted limit. In Florida, a driver received a $158 fine for failing to move over for a stopped tow truck, even though they slowed down slightly.

Most states prohibit handheld cell phone use while driving. Hands-free devices are generally allowed for drivers 18 and older. Texting while driving is banned in most states for all drivers. Penalties typically include fines and points, with repeat offenders facing increased penalties. Common violation scenarios: Maria was stopped at a red light and picked up her phone to change the music. An officer cited her for handheld device use - $160 fine. "But I was stopped!" doesn't matter - the engine was running and she was in the driver's seat. Legal alternative: She should have set up the music before driving or used voice commands. Another case: Tom held his phone to check GPS directions while driving. Even though he wasn't calling or texting, he received a $200 citation in California. Correct method: Mount your phone in a holder and set navigation before driving, or use voice commands only.

Yes, California is the only state where motorcycle lane splitting (riding between lanes of traffic) is explicitly legal. The CHP recommends lane splitting only when traffic is moving at 30 mph or less, and motorcyclists should not exceed traffic speed by more than 10 mph. Lane splitting is safest between the #1 and #2 lanes (far left lanes). It's illegal to lane split near freeway on-ramps and off-ramps.

California prohibits all handheld cell phone use while driving. Drivers must use hands-free devices with single-touch or voice activation. Drivers under 18 cannot use any wireless device, even hands-free. Holding or operating a phone while driving results in $20-$50 base fine (total with fees: $150-$250+). Second offense within 36 months adds 1 DMV point. Using phone in hand for GPS/maps is also illegal.

Texas law requires drivers on divided highways with two or more lanes to drive in the right lane and use the left lane only for passing. On highways with speed limits of 65+ mph, you must move right if a faster vehicle approaches from behind, unless you're passing, turning left, or traffic prevents moving over. "Left Lane for Passing Only" signs mark enforcement zones. Violations result in $200+ fines.

Texas prohibits open containers of alcohol in the passenger area of a vehicle on public roadways. This includes the driver and passenger seats, but not the trunk. Open container violations carry fines up to $500. Passengers cannot drink alcohol in a moving vehicle. Exception: passengers in buses, taxis, limousines, and motor homes may have open containers in living quarters. Driver having open container faces steeper penalties.

New York bans all handheld cell phone use and portable electronic device use while driving. Must use hands-free with voice or single button activation. Texting while driving is illegal for all drivers. Holding phone for any reason while driving is illegal. First offense: $50-$200 fine and 5 DMV points. Repeat offenses: up to $450 and 5 points. Junior/learner permit holders cannot use any electronic devices.

Florida requires all drivers to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and Property Damage Liability (PDL) insurance. PIP covers your medical expenses regardless of who caused the accident. Minimum coverage: $10,000 PIP and $10,000 PDL. You cannot sue for pain and suffering unless injuries are serious/permanent. Driving without insurance: license suspension, $150 reinstatement fee, SR-22 requirement. Florida is one of few no-fault states.

Reduce your speed by at least 5-10 mph in light rain and more significantly in heavy rain. Most states require drivers to adjust speed to conditions regardless of posted limits. Hydroplaning typically occurs at speeds above 35 mph on wet roads. Increase following distance to at least 4-6 seconds in wet conditions.

Most states require you to be able to see at least 500 feet ahead to drive safely. Use low-beam headlights in fog (never high beams, which reflect back). If visibility drops below 500 feet, reduce speed significantly or pull off the road safely. Many states require headlights whenever visibility is less than 1,000 feet.

Drive at reduced speeds, accelerate and decelerate slowly, and increase following distance to 8-10 seconds. Avoid sudden braking or steering changes. Use winter tires or chains where required by law. Clear all snow from your vehicle including roof, windows, and lights before driving. Many states have "clear view" laws requiring complete snow removal.

Posted speed limits represent maximum safe speeds under ideal conditions. Most states enforce "basic speed law" requiring drivers to reduce speed based on weather, visibility, and road conditions. Driving at the posted limit in poor weather can still result in citations for driving too fast for conditions. Officers can cite you even if you're under the limit.

If your car hydroplanes, ease off the accelerator gently and steer straight. Do not brake suddenly or make sharp steering movements. Wait for traction to return, which usually happens within a few seconds. Keep both hands on the wheel and avoid overcorrecting. Proper tire tread depth (at least 4/32 inch) helps prevent hydroplaning. Step-by-step recovery: You're driving 60 mph on a wet highway when your steering suddenly feels light and unresponsive - you're hydroplaning. (1) Immediately ease off the gas pedal - don't lift completely, just reduce pressure gradually. (2) Keep the steering wheel straight or pointed in your intended direction. (3) Do NOT touch the brakes - this can cause a spin. (4) Keep both hands firmly on the wheel at 9 and 3 o'clock. (5) Wait 2-3 seconds for your tires to regain contact with the pavement. (6) Once you feel control return, gently steer and brake as needed. Common mistake: A driver panicked during hydroplaning, jerked the wheel right, then overcorrected left, causing their vehicle to spin across two lanes.

Requirements vary by state and conditions. Some mountain states require chains or winter tires during certain periods or weather conditions. California requires chains or winter tires on mountain passes when chain controls are active. Many northern states recommend but don't require winter tires. Check R2 (chains required) and R3 (chains required for all vehicles) restrictions.

RVs over 26,001 pounds may require a commercial driver's license (CDL) in some states. Many states restrict RVs from the left lane on multi-lane highways. RV drivers must observe lower speed limits on some roads, typically 10 mph less than cars. Some tunnels and bridges have height, weight, or length restrictions. Always check your RV's dimensions before route planning.

Most states don't require a special license for trailers under 10,000 pounds. Trailers must have working lights, reflectors, and safety chains. Some states require separate registration and license plates. Trailers over certain widths (typically 8 feet) may require additional mirrors. Maximum combined length is usually 65 feet. Always check your vehicle's towing capacity.

Many states restrict trucks over 10,000 pounds from left lanes on highways with 3+ lanes to improve traffic flow and safety. These restrictions typically apply during daytime hours. Trucks may use restricted lanes when passing, exiting, or in heavy traffic. Violations result in fines of $100-$500. Signs indicate "No Trucks Left Lane" or similar.

Federal regulations require annual inspections for commercial vehicles over 10,000 pounds. Some states require more frequent inspections or additional state-level inspections. Pre-trip inspections are required before every commercial trip. Random roadside inspections can occur at weigh stations or inspection sites. Inspection reports must be carried in the vehicle.

Most states have a maximum vehicle height of 13 feet 6 inches to 14 feet. Bridges and tunnels may have lower clearances, typically marked with warning signs. GPS devices for RVs and trucks show low clearance warnings. Always add 6 inches to your vehicle height for safety margin. Hitting a low bridge can result in serious damage, citations, and liability for repairs.

Permits are required for vehicles exceeding state maximums: typically over 8.5 feet wide, 13.5-14 feet tall, 53-65 feet long, or over 80,000 pounds. Some states require permits for loads extending beyond vehicle dimensions. Permits specify allowed routes and travel times (often daytime only). Pilot cars may be required for extra-wide or long loads. Apply through state DOT.

Most states have Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) programs with three stages: learner's permit, intermediate license, and full license. Restrictions typically include nighttime driving curfews (often 11 PM-5 AM), passenger limitations (usually no non-family passengers under 20), and zero tolerance for alcohol. These restrictions generally last until age 18. Violations can delay progression to full license.

Teen driver curfews vary by state but commonly restrict driving between 11 PM-5 AM or midnight-6 AM during the intermediate license phase. Exceptions usually include driving to/from work, school activities, or with a licensed adult 21+. California restricts drivers under 18 from driving between 11 PM-5 AM. New York restricts junior license holders from 9 PM-5 AM. Check your state's specific GDL laws. Real scenarios: Sarah, 17, has a provisional license in California. Her movie ends at 10:45 PM. She needs to be home by 11 PM or have a parent pick her up - violating curfew could result in a $35 fine and 1-year license extension. Exception example: Jake, 16, works at a restaurant until midnight. He can drive home legally if he has a signed work permit letter from his employer. Important: Being "almost home" at 11:01 PM is still a violation - many teen drivers have received citations just minutes after curfew begins.

Most states limit teen drivers to one or zero non-family passengers under age 20 during the first 6-12 months of licensed driving. California prohibits passengers under 20 (except family) for the first year. Texas limits to one passenger under 21 (except family) for the first year. Violations can result in license suspension and extension of GDL restrictions.

Requirements vary significantly by state. Some states require in-person renewal (no online/mail) after age 70 or 75. Several states require vision tests at every renewal after a certain age. Illinois requires road tests for drivers 75+. California requires in-person renewal starting at age 70. Some states mandate more frequent renewals (every 2-5 years instead of 8-10) for older drivers.

Minimum age is typically 15-16 years. Must pass a written knowledge test on traffic laws and signs. Requires parental consent if under 18. Must hold permit for a minimum period (6-12 months) before applying for a license. During permit phase, must complete supervised driving hours (typically 40-60 hours, including night driving). Must always drive with licensed adult 21+ in the vehicle.

Phase 1 (Learner's Permit): Supervised driving only with licensed adult 21+, typically 6-12 months minimum. Phase 2 (Intermediate/Provisional License): Independent driving with restrictions (curfews, passenger limits, zero alcohol), typically until age 18. Phase 3 (Full License): No restrictions. Each phase requires passing tests and meeting age/experience requirements. System reduces teen crash rates by 20-40%.

Most states double or triple fines for speeding in active construction zones when workers are present. Fines can range from $250-$1,000 for first offense. Many states also double the points assessed. Some states impose mandatory court appearances for construction zone violations. Speed limits are often reduced to 45 mph or less. "Workers present" means actual workers are on or near the roadway. Case example: In California, a driver was cited for going 72 mph in a 55 mph construction zone (17 mph over). Normally, this would result in a $238 fine. However, because workers were present laying asphalt, the fine was doubled to $476, plus an additional $500 work zone penalty, totaling $976. The driver also received 2 points on their license. Important: Empty construction zones without workers don't typically trigger doubled fines, though reduced speed limits still apply.

You must stop when a school bus has flashing red lights and an extended stop sign arm, regardless of direction, unless on a divided highway with a physical barrier or median. Remain stopped until lights stop flashing and arm retracts. Passing a stopped school bus can result in fines of $250-$1,000, points, and possible license suspension. Some states use bus cameras to catch violators. Scenario breakdown: On a two-lane residential street, a school bus stops ahead with flashing red lights. You MUST stop, whether you're behind the bus or approaching from the opposite direction. On a four-lane highway with a painted center line (no physical barrier), you must also stop both directions. However, on a divided highway with a concrete median barrier, only traffic traveling in the same direction as the bus must stop - opposite direction traffic may proceed with caution. A Texas driver learned this the hard way: passing a stopped school bus resulted in a $1,000 fine, 2 points, and mandatory court appearance.

Always stop at railroad crossings when lights are flashing, gates are down, or a train is visible/audible. Stop 15-50 feet from the nearest rail. Never stop on the tracks. Never drive around lowered gates (illegal and extremely dangerous). Some crossings require stops even without signals if view is obstructed. Commercial vehicles must stop at all railroad crossings. Violations can result in heavy fines and license suspension.

Unpaid tolls result in violations sent to the registered vehicle owner. Initial toll plus administrative fees (typically $25-$100 per violation) are charged. Continued non-payment leads to increased penalties, DMV registration holds, and potential collection actions. Many states use automated license plate readers. Some states add points to your license. Multiple violations can result in misdemeanor charges.

Emergency shoulders are only for genuine emergencies: mechanical breakdowns, medical emergencies, or when directed by law enforcement. Driving on shoulders to bypass traffic is illegal with fines of $100-$500 and points. Some areas allow shoulder driving during specific hours with posted signs ("Shoulder OK During Congestion"). Emergency vehicles, tow trucks, and maintenance vehicles are permitted. Pull completely off the roadway when stopped.

Use hazard lights when your vehicle is disabled or stopped on the roadway, driving significantly below speed limit due to emergency, or in funeral processions. Some states prohibit using hazards while driving except in emergencies. Never use hazards as an excuse to park illegally or in normal rain/fog (use headlights instead). Regulations vary by state, with some allowing hazards in severe weather to indicate slow speed.

Texas law requires drivers to move over one lane (if safely possible) or slow down 20 mph below the posted speed limit when approaching stopped emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or TxDOT vehicles with flashing lights. On roads with speed limits 25 mph or less, slow to 5 mph. Applies to police, fire, EMS, tow trucks, and utility vehicles. Violations: $200+ fine. If causes injury or death: up to $2,000 fine and 180 days jail.

Florida uses SunPass electronic toll collection on most toll roads, turnpikes, and expressways. SunPass transponders automatically deduct tolls from prepaid accounts. Toll-by-Plate captures license plates and bills registered owners (with higher fees). Most toll roads are cashless. No transponder = Toll-by-Plate invoice with admin fees. Unpaid tolls result in violations: $100+ fees. SunPass offers 25% discount vs. Toll-by-Plate. Rental cars charge daily transponder fees.

Most states require turn signals at least 100 feet before turning in urban areas and 200-300 feet on highways. Signals must be used for lane changes, turns, and when pulling away from curbs. Failure to signal is a common traffic violation with fines of $50-$200 and possible points. Your signal must be visible from required distance. Broken turn signals can result in fix-it tickets.

Use the "3-second rule" as a minimum in good conditions: pick a fixed point ahead, and you should pass it at least 3 seconds after the vehicle ahead. Increase to 4-6 seconds in rain, and 6-10 seconds in snow/ice. At highway speeds, 3 seconds equals about 300 feet. Following too closely (tailgating) can result in citations with fines of $100-$500 and points. Commercial vehicles require greater distances.

Headlights are required from sunset to sunrise, during rain/snow/fog, and when visibility is less than 500-1,000 feet. Many states have "wipers on, headlights on" laws. Use low beams in fog and when following within 300-500 feet. High beams must be dimmed for oncoming traffic within 500-1,000 feet. Daytime running lights don't satisfy nighttime requirements as they don't illuminate taillights.

"Wipers on, headlights on" laws require headlights whenever windshield wipers are in continuous use due to weather conditions. This applies in rain, sleet, snow, or fog. The law improves visibility for other drivers. Violations typically result in fines of $50-$200. Some states (California, New York, New Jersey) strictly enforce this rule. Intermittent wiper use may not trigger the requirement in some states.

All states require front-seat occupants to wear seat belts. Most states require all occupants (front and rear seats) to buckle up. Primary enforcement states allow officers to stop vehicles solely for seat belt violations. Secondary enforcement requires another violation first. Fines typically range from $25-$200. New Hampshire is the only state without an adult seat belt law (though required for under 18).

Requirements vary by state but generally follow AAP guidelines: rear-facing until age 2 or outgrown seat limits, forward-facing with harness until age 4-7, booster seat until age 8-12 or 4'9" tall, then seat belt. Most states require car seats until age 8 or specific height/weight. Violations result in fines of $50-$500 and may require attending safety classes. Proper installation is critical.

Florida requires headlights from sunset to sunrise, and whenever windshield wipers are in use (rain/fog/snow). Parking lights alone are insufficient. High beams must be dimmed within 500 feet of oncoming traffic or 300 feet when following another vehicle. Daytime running lights don't count as headlights because they don't activate taillights. Violations: $100+ fine. "Wipers on, lights on" strictly enforced during Florida's frequent rain.