Rules for Driving in New York

Stay safe in your New York car hire with our guide to the rules for driving in New York.

 
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Stay safe and on the right side of the law in New York with our useful guide to the “dos and don’ts” of New York car hire.

Driving in New York is exactly the same as in Britain; be careful in New York, and obey the law.

The biggest difference between driving in New York and in Britain is the fact that people in New York drive on the "wrong" side of the road. In New York, for the first couple of miles of New York car hire this can feel strange, so stick to quiet New York roads until you're used to it.

Most people arrange automatic car hire in New York, as not using the gears makes driving easier in New York.

Speed Limits in New York

On Interstate roads around New York, speed limits are between 55 and 75 mph. In New York itself, speed limits are around 45mph. Speed limits in New York are posted along the side of all roads. In New York if you break the speed limit, the New York police can fine you on the spot.

Drink Driving in New York

Drink driving is a serious offence in New York, and conviction results in a fine and prison. In New York, you can have some alcohol before driving in New York, but you shouldn't drink before driving. If you crash in New York whilst under the influence, your insurance won't be valid.

General hints for driving your hire car in New York

  • In New York, drive on the right, and overtake on the left. In New York, "undertaking" is a traffic offence, and is punished with a fine.
  • If in New York you see a school bus stop in New York to pick up or drop off, wait for it to continue before passing.
  • In New York you must always wear a seat belt while driving in New York.
  • When approaching a junction on an Interstate near New York, don't slow down until you have entered the "deceleration lane".
  • In New York if you approach a set of traffic lights on red in New York, you can turn right if the traffic is clear.
  • Speed limits and distances on signs in New York are in miles, and petrol is sold in gallons at all New York fuel stations.
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