Rules for Driving a Car
- It is important to only drive in a car that has been properly maintained and has functional safety equipment. Many states require annual safety inspections in which important parts such as the brakes, windshield wipers, tire tread, and lights are checked. In states where inspections are not mandatory a self-inspection is recommended to ensure that a car stays in compliance with local requirements. When a car that has not been made safe to drive is involved in an accident, the penalties to the driver may be much more severe.
- All cars driven on American roads must be registered for operation. This is usually done when a car is purchased or moved into the state from somewhere else. It usually requires an inspection to certify that the car is safe to drive and complies with any relevant emissions standards. Registration fees are used to control the number of cars in operation and to raise funds for road construction and traffic law enforcement. Just as cars must be registered, drivers must complete their local process for acquiring a driver's license. Additionally, in most states drivers are required to ensure their vehicles and carry proof of insurance with them whenever they operate their car.
- Once a car and its driver have met all necessary standards, the rules of the road come into play. Following common traffic signs such as speed limits, stop signs and traffic lights is essential. Other less common signs must also be obeyed, including parking restrictions, types of allowable turns and special behavior in school, hospital, or emergency zones. Many traffic signs are universal, but some laws vary from state to state. Knowing the rules of conduct when traveling is important, as a different region's geography or climate may alter the needs of a driver. For example, cold weather equipment such as snow tires or a rear window defroster may be required in some northern states, but not in states where snow and ice are uncommon.
- Each state has its own alcohol policy. In all cases, driving while intoxicated is illegal and punishable by jail time or severe fines. The definition of "intoxicated" or "under the influence" varies, but in most states is a blood alcohol content of around .08% or .10%. Some states also have a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under 21 years of age (the legal drinking age). Driving with an open alcohol container is also illegal, even if the driver is not drinking themselves. Strict enforcement of alcohol policy over the years has led to large reductions in the number of alcohol-related traffic deaths.
- There are many situations where special rules apply above and beyond the basic driving laws. One such situation is the case of young drivers. Some states issue a junior operator's or junior driver's license, which carry certain restrictions such as a limit on the number of passengers or a curfew for new drivers. In addition, drivers who operate a vehicle for their job or carry hazardous materials may be required to carry a special commercial license that certifies their familiarity with a special list of rules that apply only to them. Likewise, motorcycle drivers usually are required to carry a motorcycle operator's license.