Tourists come to the Golden State expecting a peaceful and relaxing experience. However, driving on California roads can be anything but that. Californians have a unique way of driving that out-of-state visitors and even some residents might not be aware of.
California drivers also have a reputation for being aggressive and occasionally driving recklessly. If you were in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you might be entitled to financial compensation. Obtaining funds for accident-related damages will be hard to do on your own, which is why you should hire a California car accident attorney.
When driving in California, keep these 6 unspoken rules in mind.
Be Aware of Lane Splitters
Lane splitting is when a motorcycle rides in between two lanes of traffic. While it is illegal in most states, it is legal in stopped or slow-moving traffic in California. Motorcyclists will often ride in your blind spots when doing this, so always look before switching lanes.
Do Not Expect Others to Use Blinkers
As annoying and unsafe as this may be, Californians rarely use their blinkers. Always assume that someone is going to come into your lane or turn without notice. However, this does not mean you should not use turn signals. They are a great way to keep yourself and others safe.
Never Block the Right Turning Lane at Stop Lights
Drivers will do whatever they can to turn right on red, even if that means driving on the sidewalk. If you are approaching a light with multiple lanes, do your best to merge into the center lane, allowing drivers the opportunity to turn. This might save you from being in a collision.
Drivers Take Honking as a Negative
Some areas use honking as a way to say “thank you” when a car lets you in or saying “hi” when you pass a neighbor on the street. Conversely, California drivers often honk because they are annoyed at something you did. If you did not move as soon as the light turned green or moved up when traffic started to flow, you would likely have the driver behind you honking.
Know Where You Are Going
This is an unspoken rule for every state, but it is even more critical to follow in California. Our highways commonly have four or more lanes of traffic, so you need to know where your exits are ahead of time. Google and Apple maps are good tools to use when you do not know your way around. If your exit is quickly approaching, do not cut across all the lanes to take it. Wait until the next one or have a passenger take over navigation.
Pay Attention to Traffic Flow
California drivers who take posted speed limits are more of a suggestion than the law. While you run the risk of getting a speeding ticket, it is dangerous to travel slower than the traffic around you. If you feel uncomfortable going the high speeds other cars are traveling at, stay in the right-most lane, but expect commercial trucks to pass you constantly.
Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney Today
Some people dream of taking a road trip through California to see its stunning landscapes, but without knowing the unspoken rules of the road, it might turn into a stressful experience. Ultimately, you need to be even more careful when driving on California roads or risk being in a crash. If you are in a crash, you might have sustained injuries, which can cost thousands of dollars.
When this happens, contact the experienced car accident attorneys at Setareh Law. We dedicate ourselves to providing superb legal representation to those injured from another person’s carelessness. To schedule a free consultation, call (310) 659-1826 or complete our contact form.