What are the key points to pay special attention to regarding traffic rules in the United States?

Parking Rules and Right of Way

1. Full Stop at STOP Signs

When encountering a red octagonal "STOP" sign, regardless of whether there are vehicles or pedestrians at the intersection, you must come to a complete stop for at least 3 seconds and proceed only after ensuring it is safe. If multiple directions have STOP signs, follow the "first come, first go" principle.

2. Absolute Priority for School Buses and Special Vehicles

• When a school bus stops and extends its "STOP" sign with red lights flashing, all vehicles in all directions must stop and remain stationary until the sign is retracted.

• Upon hearing the sirens of police cars, fire trucks, or ambulances, immediately pull over to the right and yield, even if you have a green light.

3. Pedestrians Have the Right of Way

Vehicles must stop and yield to pedestrians at a safe distance, regardless of whether pedestrians are jaywalking or not using crosswalks. At intersections without traffic lights, if pedestrians signal to cross, vehicles must also stop.

Speed Limits and Driving Habits

1. Strict Adherence to Speed Limits

• Freeway speed limits are mostly 65 miles per hour (approximately 105 kilometers per hour), with city limits ranging from 25 to 45 miles per hour. School zones typically have a speed limit of 25 miles per hour (40 kilometers per hour).

• In adverse weather conditions (rain, snow, fog), reduce speed voluntarily. California law stipulates that even if you are not exceeding the speed limit but are not driving safely (e.g., in heavy fog), it is still considered illegal.

Prohibition of Distracted Driving

• It is strictly prohibited to use a handheld phone for calls or texting while driving, with fines starting at $175.

• Always use turn signals before changing lanes or making turns, and switch to low beams at night.

Special Rules and Penalties

1. Right Turn on Red

Most states allow right turns on red, but you must first come to a complete stop and ensure there are no pedestrians or oncoming vehicles before proceeding. Right turns on red are prohibited throughout New York City.

2. Zero Tolerance for Drunk and Drugged Driving

A blood alcohol concentration exceeding 0.08% constitutes drunk driving (0.01% for those under 21 years old), with potential imprisonment and hefty fines. Driving under the influence of medications that impair judgment, such as cold medicine, is also illegal.

Other Precautions

• No Parking in Disabled Spaces: Violators may face fines exceeding $400.

• Child Safety Seats: Mandatory for children under 8 years old or under 144 cm in height.

• Honking Restrictions: Horn use is prohibited except in emergencies, as it is considered impolite.