Rules of the Road

Introduction This training will assist Motor Carriers in understanding some of the important traffic regulations and traffic control devices used in the United States. All drivers are required to comply with U.S. traffic regulations when using our streets and highways.

General Requirements Reference: Click here for MUTCD Web site. Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) published by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Click here for MUTCD Web site.

Traffic Signs in the U.S. Traffic signs are important for your Safety! In order to provide your drivers a proper training experience, please see our U.S. Traffic Sign Guide Training Module.

Traffic Control Devices Traffic control devices are important because they regulate, warn, and guide road users along the highways. Some traffic control devices are: Stops Signs Pavement Markings Speed Signs Route Markers Traffic Signals

Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices The MUTCD establishes a nationwide standard in the U.S. for traffic control devices so that drivers can learn one set of rules that don't change every time they cross a U.S. State line.

Traffic Control Devices Three types of traffic control devices: Pavement Markings Traffic Signals Signs

Pavement Markings In the U.S., center lines or edge lines pavement markings are used to guide and warn drivers. Pavement markings may be either yellow or white. Each has a different meaning: - Yellow center line markings separate lanes of traffic moving in opposite directions.

Pavement Markings White lines separate lanes of traffic going in the same direction.

Pavement Markings Pedestrian Crosswalks are shown with white lines across the road.

Pavement Markings Center Lines: A yellow dashed or broken line is used as the center line on a two–lane, two–way road where passing with care is permitted in both directions.

Pavement Markings Center Lines: When continuous, double, solid, yellow lines are the center lines you cannot cross them to pass in either direction. On a two–lane road, passing with care is permitted if the dashed yellow line is in your lane.

Pavement Markings Edge lines: Single, solid, white lines are used as right–edge lines along the roadway and for guiding traffic traveling in the same direction. Single, solid, yellow lines are used as left–edge lines on divided highways. If you see the reverse, you are traveling in the wrong direction.

Pavement Markings Two–Way left turn lane: On certain multi–lane highways, a special center lane is reserved exclusively for two-way left turn movements in both directions. The two–way left turn lane must not be used for passing or overtaking another vehicle. The marking for this type of lane is shown by the diagram below.

Pavement Markings Pavement Markers: White and yellow pavement “markers" are reflective devices used in the pavement to improve the visibility of marking lines at night when the road is wet. Red markers indicate wrong–way movements for motorists.

Traffic Signals In the U.S., traffic signals are placed at intersections to keep traffic moving and avoid accidents. Drivers, pedestrians, and bicycle riders must obey these signals except when an officer is directing traffic.

Traffic Signals Stop on the stop line if your car is nearest the signal. Some signals change only when a car is at the stop line. If traffic signals are out of order, stop as you would for a four-way stop sign.

Traffic Signs Traffic signs convey information to travelers through their shape, color, message, and placement. Each standard sign shall be use only for the specific purpose as described in the MUTCD.

Rules of the Road It is important to remember that everyone must obey the orders of a police officer, firefighter or uniformed adult school crossing guard who is directing traffic. Please see the What To Do When Stopped By Police training module.

Rules of the Road Thank you for your attention!