Ours can be seen from afar: how Russian-speaking drivers behave on the roads in New York

Once in a new country, drivers study the traffic rules so as not to violate anything. But almost all immigrants in the United States know that without a car it is like without hands, so you must have the rights. But, as it turns out, if you drove a car at home and are used to some rules, then some American ones will surprise you a little. At the same time, "our" drivers are almost always visible in the flow of cars in the United States. The author writes about it blog "50 shades of New York" on "Yandex.Zen".

Don't turn to red

Traffic rules in Russia establish a ban on driving at a red traffic light. In the United States, this requirement does not apply when it is necessary to make a right or left turn in one-way traffic.

“I often see drivers waiting for a turn signal. At the same time, they sincerely do not understand the indignation of other participants in the movement. I also did not immediately fully understand this permissive rule, because some intersections, especially in large cities, are equipped with a sign that prohibits such maneuvers, ”writes the author of the blog.

Fasten on

There is no mandatory seat belt requirement in the United States. There are just some sections of the road where the Buckle up sign hangs.

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Drivers from Russia were divided into two categories. The former constantly use a seat belt, while others, having learned about their non-obligation, do not use them at all, even where necessary.

Trying to settle the problems with the world

In Russia, it is normal practice for a driver to try to "settle" problems without formalizing official documents. In the USA, if you are stopped by a policeman, you need to strictly follow the rules - stop at the side of the road, lower the glass and, without leaving the car, answer all questions.

Any sudden movement, an attempt to get something out of the glove compartment without warning or get out of the car can be regarded as aggression, which will entail disappointing consequences.

“Not so long ago there was a situation when I had to 'save' a compatriot from the local police. The manner of communication and poor knowledge of the language could have provided him with several days of arrest. I stopped and helped to explain with a representative of the authorities. The attitude towards tourists and foreigners who have not committed gross violations is quite loyal here, ”says the author.

Ignore the carpool lane

Such a lane does not exist in the traffic rules of Russia and the CIS countries. Drivers from Russia, getting to the United States, either use this lane for other purposes, or try not to enter it at all.

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The carpool lane is intended for traveling companies, that is, if there are two or more passengers in the car. Sharing of vehicles is encouraged here, which reduces the traffic density on the road. Control over the use of this strip is carried out by means of photo and video recording, and a fine is established for violation of the rules.

Lost at unregulated intersections

Unregulated intersections are a separate topic. The presence of two contradicting signs Stop and All way or 4-way does not allow a driver from Russia to correctly and quickly orientate.

Stop sign means a clear demand to stop, not to slow down, not to slow down, but to make a complete stop of the vehicle. After that, you need to make sure that there are other road users and the need to let them pass.

The rest of the signs suggest the possibility of passage. They mean that whoever arrives first is the first to pass. This order of things is very confusing for our drivers. Since they are used to being guided by the rule of interference on the right or priority signs.