1. Recognize and Understand Traffic Signs. Traffic signs on American roads are generally very clearly marked. Before driving, drivers should first familiarize themselves with the traffic signs and must pay attention to them while driving. For example, the STOP sign, which frequently appears on American roads, requires drivers to come to a complete stop before proceeding. Since traffic regulations vary by state, the rules regarding right turns on red lights also differ, so it is essential to pay attention to the road signs. When turning right on a red light, even if there are no vehicles coming from the opposite or left side, you must come to a complete stop before proceeding.
2. Right of Way. When vehicles and pedestrians meet, pedestrians have the right of way. When merging from a minor road to a major road, you must wait at the intersection until it is safe to enter the major road. In the United States, the common practice is to wait until vehicles on the major road are at least 200 meters away from the intersection before merging. It is particularly important to note that school buses have absolute right of way. When the STOP sign is activated on a school bus, other vehicles must come to a complete stop.
3. Always pay attention to speed limit signs, whether on highways or in city streets. Speed limits in the United States are generally measured in "miles." One mile is approximately equal to 1.6093 kilometers.
4. Although regulations vary slightly by state, it is safest for both the driver and the front passenger to wear seat belts. Do not answer your phone while driving, and do not wear headphones.
5. Parking. Parking lots in the United States are generally unattended, but you should never take chances, as fines for improper parking can be quite high. Carefully read the signs in the parking lot to understand the allowed parking times and periods. Most paid parking lots are self-service, typically charging by the hour. After payment, the parking machine will print a receipt, which must be placed in a visible location from outside the vehicle; otherwise, the vehicle may be towed. Additionally, be careful not to park in spaces designated for disabled individuals or those with other special markings.
6. When you hear a vehicle honking, whether it is a police car, fire truck, or ambulance, you should pull over and slow down to allow the vehicle to pass.
7. When dealing with police. Traffic police in the United States are not commonly found at intersections; they prefer to patrol in vehicles. When a police officer believes you have committed a violation, they will typically activate the colorful lights on their patrol car and request that the offending vehicle pull over. In such situations, understand that this is a police enforcement procedure; do not panic, but instead, be sure to pull over as instructed by the officer.
After stopping the vehicle, place both hands on the steering wheel and wait for the officer to approach. During communication with the officer, the driver and all passengers should keep their hands in a position visible to the officer, avoiding any unnecessary movements. Listen patiently to the officer and comply with their requests. In the United States, patrol officers not only carry handguns but also have a long gun in their patrol cars. If the officer feels their safety is threatened, they have the right to draw their weapon.
Additionally, after pulling over, sometimes the officer may not approach immediately; they may need to check the license plate, insurance, etc. If the officer has not arrived after several minutes, be patient and do not leave the vehicle without permission, as this could lead to a situation similar to the one described at the beginning of this text. In the United States, evading police and assaulting an officer are considered felonies.
