Odd state driving laws

[smiller]

Originally Posted by SNAPPY

Dual speed limits are actually much more dangerous than having all traffic flowing along at the same speed.

Yes, I think that is true. The 55 mph truck/trailer limit in California causes big rigs to clump together and causes a lot of traffic flow problems, leading to other vehicles trying to pass in frustration. etc. Excessive speed is bad, but it's difference in speed that is at the cause of many accidents. I think that the reason the law is still on the books has more to do with inertia than a calculated way to raise revenue, but regardless I doubt that there is much evidence supporting limiting trucks and trailers to 55 mph on the open Interstate, in fact when you're in among 'em it just seems silly and yes, even dangerous. Some states have moved toward eliminating speed differences and presumably they have safety data to back up that change.

[Finhawk]

Originally Posted by dons2346

Just so you know, in OR a motorhome towing a vehicle can run the single vehicle speeds. They do not have to drive the truck speeds. Got that from one of their highway patrol guys

That's all well and good and I don't doubt what you're saying. But until they change the sign that says" 55 MPH While Towing", I'll go by that. The last time I looked at one of those, it didn't say anything about any vehicle or combination of vehicles being exempt. All I need is to be stopped by a Trooper that isn't aware of what you said. I'd rather spend my money on Southern Comfort.

[Scottybdivin]

Originally Posted by SNAPPY

Does wonders as a revenue resource though. Which is really the reason for dual speed limits. Or speed limits in general. I know all about the reason speed limits were initially established blah blah fuel efficiency blah blah. The reality is that speed limits, and dual speed limits are a HUGE source of income for states, cities, counties and municipalities in general. They hide behind the guise of safety but in reality we all know, or should know, it's all about the money. Dual speed limits are actually much more dangerous than having all traffic flowing along at the same speed. Here in Texas there are no dual speed limits and no night and day speed limits. Same speed limit for everyone all the time.

Can you say "Cash Cow!" This is the same as the seat belt law. "Click it or Ticket". One of the few traffic laws where you are not effecting the safety of the general public. If you want to be a mouron and not wear a seat belt …………….. Yes, there something to be said about the tax payers having to pay for your medical disability after you crack your skull, but there is no parity in the laws. In Texas, you could be pulled over, and while the officer is "making his quota", writing you a ticket for not wearing your seat belt while driving your dually, a guy and a chick wearing nothing but their cutoffs and bikini top can cruise by you on their Harley. No helmet required.

[CampDaven]

[Algoma]

Originally Posted by Art E

Don't know if it's unique; but, in Alabama if you are on a one-way street and you come to a traffic light at the intersection of another one-way street onto which you want to turn left, you can turn left on the red light when it is clear to do so. Over the years I know that many Alabama drivers don't know about this.

This is true across the whole country. It is the same as turning right at a stop light unless there is a sign prohibiting it. I guess driver's ed don't teach these rules as it is infuriating sitting behind drivers who don't know this rule.

[Mr_D]

Originally Posted by Art E

Don't know if it's unique; but, in Alabama if you are on a one-way street and you come to a traffic light at the intersection of another one-way street onto which you want to turn left, you can turn left on the red light when it is clear to do so. Over the years I know that many Alabama drivers don't know about this.

WA is the same and, as was said, most people (including LEO's) don't know about it.

[Mr_D]

Originally Posted by RustyJC

That's true insofar as driver license reciprocity is concerned. However, you must comply with the traffic laws (speed limits, prohibitions on towing double, the "no right on red" example, etc.) of the states through which you travel.

Rusty

So very true!

[Dutch Star David]

Dual speed limits are actually much more dangerous than having all traffic flowing along at the same speed.

Absolutely true! It's all about the revenue; both the traffic fines and the increased insurance premiums.

[okgc]

Originally Posted by Raining Star

I know that California has a 65mph limit with a toad, and no right on red in NYC. Also lots of places prohibit u-turns. - Does anyone know of a good source for all these state law exceptions and oddities? I'd prefer online so I could always access it.

The problem with many "good sources" is that the writers opinion can distort and standardize facts about laws. An example of this is towing four down is considered the same as a trailer in some places and others not.

[SlyFox]

I have found this site State Driving Law to be a pretty good resource. You can download any states drivers licensing rules. Have not been able to find an all in one type resource yet.

[Wayne M]

Most states do not provide a comprehensive list of driving laws in their driver's license handbook. There are modifications to laws on a continuous basis and are passed by legislature process. It behooves all drivers to keep up with their state laws.

Typically if you are driving in a sensible manner you should not have any problems, just be aware that there are different laws for different states. Most of the time you can follow the lead of all the other drivers around you. Most are law abiding citizens.

[BobGed]

Originally Posted by SlyFox

I have found this site State Driving Law to be a pretty good resource. You can download any states drivers licensing rules. Have not been able to find an all in one type resource yet.

This one is pretty good, but still not perfect: State Towing Laws for RVs

[jpharley]

I believe Illinois also has a different towing speed than the speed allowed for autos. We would tow the speed limit if it were 55-60 but we would never tow the speed limit In some states like Texas. That is way to fast and unsafe in our opinion.

[Dutch Star David]

Originally Posted by jpharley

I believe Illinois also has a different towing speed than the speed allowed for autos. We would tow the speed limit if it were 55-60 but we would never tow the speed limit In some states like Texas. That is way to fast and unsafe in our opinion.

Especially if your rig still has the 65 MPH rated ST tires on it.