Driving in a new place like Washington State can be a learning curve, especially for drivers from other countries. Understanding the local Washington State traffic rules and Seattle traffic laws is essential to ensure safety and avoid fines. If you’re unfamiliar with the rules, enrolling at Roadsafe Driving Academy a trusted driving school in Seattle can make all the difference. Here are ten key traffic rules in Washington that foreign drivers often find challenging to grasp.
Here are ten key traffic rules in Washington that foreign drivers often find challenging to grasp.
1. Keep Right, Pass Left
- On multi-lane highways in Washington State, you should always stay in the right lane for normal driving and use the left lane only for passing. Lingering in the left lane unnecessarily can result in fines.
2. Right Turn on Red
- In Washington, you can turn right at a red light after coming to a complete stop unless there’s a sign prohibiting it. However, make sure the road is clear of pedestrians and oncoming traffic before proceeding, as per Seattle traffic laws.
3. Pedestrian Right-of-Way
- Pedestrians always have the right-of-way at both marked and unmarked crosswalks. Therefore, drivers must stop and allow them to cross safely, following Washington State traffic rules.
4. School Zone Speed Limits
- When children are present, the speed limit in school zones is 20 mph. Consequently, you should watch for flashing school zone signs and reduce your speed accordingly. Roadsafe Driving Academy highlights this as an important safety rule.
5. Seat Belt Laws
- In Washington, the law requires all passengers, including those in the back seat, to wear seat belts. Failing to comply can result in fines under traffic rules in Washington.
6. Hands-Free Device Law
- Using handheld mobile devices while driving is illegal. Instead, you should always use hands-free options, like Bluetooth, to make calls or navigate safely. This is a key focus of Roadsafe Driving Academy, a well-known driving school in Seattle.
7. Move Over Law
- When approaching stationary emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or police vehicles with flashing lights, you must move over a lane if possible. If moving over is not safe, then slow down significantly to ensure safety.
8. DUI Regulations
- Washington has strict DUI laws, with a legal BAC limit of 0.08% for adults and 0.02% for drivers under 21. Thus, it is always safer to avoid drinking and driving.
9. Roundabout Navigation
- When entering a roundabout, you must yield to traffic already circulating. Additionally, drive counterclockwise and use turn signals when exiting. This is a common requirement under Washington State traffic rules.
10. Bicycle Lane Usage
- Bicyclists are treated as vehicles in Seattle traffic laws. As a result, drivers must give them at least three feet of space when passing and only overtake when it is safe to do so.
Why Choose Roadsafe Driving Academy?
At Roadsafe Driving Academy, we specialise in helping new drivers and those from other countries adapt to Washington State traffic rules and Seattle traffic laws. Our driving school in Seattle offers:
- Comprehensive driving lessons in Seattle
- Customised driving courses in Seattle for teens and adults
- Flexible schedules tailored to your needs
Ready to master the roads of Washington State? Enroll in Roadsafe Driving Academy today! Whether you’re a new driver or need to brush up on local rules, our experienced instructors will ensure you drive confidently and safely. Contact us now to schedule your driving lessons in Seattle or join our teen driving school in Seattle and adult driving school in Seattle programs.
Understanding these rules and practising them with professional guidance can make your driving experience in Washington State safe and enjoyable. Let Roadsafe Driving Academy help you become a responsible and skilled driver today!