Driving in the USA is, for most people, much easier than driving in the UK. The roads are generally wider and less congested (apart from the I4 at rush hour!), and automatic transmission and cruise control add to the enjoyment. We have found that American drivers are much more courteous than European drivers and this may or may not be due to the American perceived right to bear arms.  Certainly it is not generally a good idea to gesticulate to someone who may have a gun in his glove box.

Speed limits, contrary to popular belief, are very similar to the UK and obviously should be obeyed. Speed cameras are happily few and far between in the States, but look out for those sheriff cars parked sneakily on central reservations!

There are no roundabouts of course, but you have to contend with the “four way stops” where there is no clear right of way. At these intersections, drivers must look at the other stops to see if there are any other vehicles stopped or moving. The idea is that vehicles leave the stop signs in the same order in which they arrived. The first vehicle to arrive at a complete stop is the first vehicle allowed to leave the stop sign by the other drivers. It actually works very well, although I can’t imagine drivers in the UK being so patient!

On the subject of all “Stop” signs, it can’t be emphasised enough that “Stop” does mean “stop”. It does not mean “slow down” a bit. Make sure that you come to a complete halt before proceeding. Many Brits have been prosecuted for failing to observe the distinction.

On the plus side, in Florida it is usually quite legal to turn right at a red light if it is safe to do so – but stop at the “Stop” sign first. (There are some exceptions, and there will be a sign at the intersection in those cases informing you that it is not allowed at that particular place).

Finally I come to the “school bus”. I can’t begin to explain the cold sweats that come over me when I see one of those iconic yellow vehicles as there is U.S. legislation regarding passing or overtaking them. Basically, if they stop to let children off, lights flash and traffic from either direction must immediately stop, no closer than 100 feet from the bus, and not move off again until the bus does so, or the lights cease to flash.

Having said that, I have found driving in Florida a comparative pleasure, and it is a great way to explore the real out-of-the-way Florida.

Please do not take my jottings here as any definitive information on US driving, but do take some time to acquaint yourself with the official US driving laws. Drive happy!

Andy Brownlie