When you’re looking to go on a cross-country trip, then you want to know as much as you can about the states that you’re going through. Whether you’re taking a southerly route and reading up on this Las Vegas traffic infographic by Ladah Law Firm, PLLC or you’re trying to figure out what you want to do while driving, it’s important that you know these 10 facts before starting your drive across the U.S.

drive across us

  1. Even though you already likely know about the dangers of texting and driving, you should also know that there are 46 states that actually ban the practice, so that’s even more of a reason for you to just avoid doing it at all.
  2. When you’re driving in states that actually have the autumn season, make sure that you take it slow. The autumn leaves, especially if they are wet, can be as dangerous as black ice if you’re not careful.
  3. Did you know that you are supposed to stop in both directions if you see a school bus with its lights on? So, if you’re going to be going on some back roads, make sure that you keep this important law in mind.
  4. Some states have a minimum and a maximum speed limit posted on the Interstates. This is to make sure that slower vehicles are not going to obstruct traffic on the highway. Keep an eye on these so you know what range that you’re going to want to stay in.
  5. The HOV (high occupancy vehicle) lanes that you find in and around large cities like Washington DC and Baltimore are meant for people who are carpooling to work; they’re meant to encourage that practice. However, as long as you have 2 or more people in your car, you are free to use it as well.
  6. Roundabouts are common in the Northeast. Make sure that you keep an eye on the direction that the traffic is going. Many times, if you’re just pulling into the roundabout, the vehicles already in it have the right of way. Then, once you’re in traffic, you have the right of way. Stay alert and you’ll be just fine.
  7. If you are stopped by an officer, they won’t get upset if you take your time to find somewhere safe to pull over. Even if you’re on a two-lane highway, make sure that you do it on the right side of the road. It’s safer for you and the officer.
  8. Distracted driving is a huge problem in the United States, and there are a lot of things that can fit into this category, from trying to eat and drive to playing with your GPS. So, try to keep your focus on the road and if you have to do something that may be distracting, pull into a parking lot and take care of it.
  9. Many states have special laws that may only apply to their own state. Because of that, you want to make sure that you understand them before you even get started.
  10. Signs with black print and white writing are usually related to laws and must be obeyed.