At a four-way stop, the first vehicle to arrive and fully stop has the right-of-way. If two arrive at the same time, the driver on the right goes first. Yield to avoid collisions—always stop completely.

In most U.S. states, the default speed limit in residential areas (unless a sign says otherwise) is 25 mph. This lower limit protects children, pedestrians, and pets in neighborhoods. Always watch for posted signs.

Double solid yellow lines mean passing is prohibited in both directions. You may not cross them to pass – it’s illegal and dangerous. Only cross when broken lines or permitted zones appear.

When turning left on a green light (circular green, not a green arrow), you must yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians with the right-of-way. Proceed only when the path is clear and safe.

A red octagon-shaped sign always means STOP. You must come to a complete stop at the marked line or before entering the intersection, then proceed only when safe. This shape is unique to STOP signs.

A yellow diamond-shaped sign with a deer symbol warns of a wildlife crossing area. Deer or other animals may enter the road ahead. Slow down, stay alert, especially at dawn/dusk, to avoid collisions.

A flashing red light treats the intersection like a STOP sign: come to a complete stop, check all directions, then proceed only when safe and clear. It has the same legal weight as a stop sign.

You must activate your turn signal at least 100 feet before turning or changing lanes in most U.S. states. This gives following drivers and pedestrians time to react safely. Signal earlier on high-speed roads.

In fog, use low beams. High beams reflect off the fog and blind you. Low beams light the road better and make you visible to others. Turn on fog lights if equipped; never use hazard lights while moving.

The three-second rule measures a safe following distance. Pick a fixed point; when the vehicle ahead passes it, count “one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, one-thousand-three.” If you reach it before three seconds, you’re too close—back off.

Motorcyclists are entitled to the full width of a lane, just like cars. They have the same road rights and must follow the same rules. Never crowd, pass, or try to share their lane—it’s illegal and dangerous.

When a school bus displays flashing red lights and extended stop arm, you must stop in both directions on undivided roads. Remain stopped until lights stop flashing and arm retracts—even if no children are visible.

Prescription drugs (painkillers, sedatives, antidepressants, etc.) can impair reaction time, vision, and judgment just like alcohol. Always read labels and never drive if the medication warns against it.

The legal BAC limit for drivers 21+ in all 50 U.S. states is 0.08%. Even lower limits (0.00–0.04%) apply for commercial drivers and under-21 drivers. At 0.08%, you’re considered impaired and face DUI charges.

Under Implied Consent laws in all U.S. states, refusing a breath, blood, or urine test automatically triggers license suspension (often 6–12 months on first refusal) and possible jail time—separate from any DUI charge.

You must dim high beams when within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle (or 300 feet when following another car). This prevents blinding other drivers and is required by law in all U.S. states.

If a tire blows out, hold the wheel firmly, steer straight, and ease off the accelerator to slow down gradually. Do not slam the brakes or swerve. Brake gently only when speed is low and pull off the road safely.

If your vehicle skids, steer into the skid (turn the wheel in the direction the rear is sliding). This regains traction and control. Ease off the gas; avoid hard braking or sudden acceleration.

Points are penalties added to your driving record for traffic violations (speeding, red lights, etc.). Too many points → license suspension. They stay on your record 3–7 years depending on the state.

In most states, children under 8 (or under 4’9″) must ride in an approved child safety seat or booster seat in the back seat. This is law to protect them in crashes. Fines apply for violations.

Double solid yellow lines mean no passing from either direction. You may only cross carefully when turning left into a driveway or side road.

Broken white lines indicate that changing lanes is permitted when safe.

All drivers in both directions must stop for a bus with flashing red lights, unless on a divided

Most U.S. states set 25 mph as the standard residential speed limit.