> My boyfriend has never driven in the States and as we're coming for a driving
> holiday later this month, I thought it might be helpful if we had some advice.
As a Canadian who has driven in both the UK and the USA (MANY times) I
would say the main shock for Brits (and Europeans in general) is just
how much slower the traffic moves. As you're new to being behind the
wheel that's probably a good thing :)
The low speed limits on the dual carriageways ("freeways") will
probably suprise you, as will the fact that almost everyone seems to
be breaking the speed limits. You'll probably be fine if you're five
or so miles an hour over the limit, any faster than that and you may
find yourself with a ticket.
In terms of traffic rules probably the only thing you'll find
different is the fact that you can turn RIGHT on a red light. If you
pull up to an intersection and the light is red you can treat it like
a stop sign if you're making a right turn. Wait - And then proceed.
It's also highly unlikely you'll encounter any roundabouts.
Finally, unlike many UK rentals, your rental car will have an
automatic transmission.
Cheers,
Geoff Glave
email: geoff at glave dot org
Vancouver, Canada |