Emergency Situations and Defensive Driving in New York

1. What is the legal blood alcohol limit in New York for operating a vehicle?


In New York, the legal blood alcohol limit for operating a vehicle is 0.08%.

2. What are the rules for passing a stopped school bus in New York?


In New York, the law requires that all vehicles must stop when approaching a school bus that is stopped and has its red lights flashing. All traffic in both directions must stop for the bus. Vehicles may not proceed until the school bus resumes motion, the red lights have stopped flashing, or a crossing guard signals that it is safe to proceed.

3. In what situations should a driver yield the right of way in New York?


In New York, drivers should yield the right of way when:
– crossing or entering an intersection,
– turning left at an intersection,
– when merging onto a highway,
– when approaching a pedestrian in a crosswalk,
– when approaching a bicyclist, and
– when approaching an emergency vehicle with its lights on.

4. What is New York’s distracted driving law?


New York’s distracted driving law prohibits drivers from using any portable electronic device while operating a motor vehicle. The law applies to activities such as talking or texting on a cell phone, using a GPS device, watching a video, playing games, or using any other type of electronic device. Drivers found in violation of this law are subject to fines and points on their license.

5. Is it legal to use a cell phone while driving in New York?


No, it is illegal to use a cell phone while driving in New York.

6. When should a driver use high beams in New York?


In New York, drivers should use high beams when travelling on an open highway or roadway with no street lights and no oncoming traffic.

7. What is the speed limit on highways in New York?


The speed limit on highways in New York State is 65 mph (105 km/h).

8. How long are drivers allowed to drive without taking a break in New York?


In New York, commercial drivers are generally allowed to drive up to 11 consecutive hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty. The daily driving limit is generally 11 hours.

9. What should drivers do when approaching a railroad crossing in New York?


When approaching a railroad crossing in New York, drivers should slow down and be prepared to stop. They should look and listen for approaching trains and obey any warning signal devices, such as flashing lights, bells, or crossing gates. Drivers should never try to beat a train across a crossing.

10. How should drivers react if they encounter an aggressive driver on the road in New York?


If drivers encounter an aggressive driver on the road in New York, they should stay calm and avoid engaging the other driver in any way. Drivers should try to distance themselves from the aggressive driver as much as possible, and not respond to any provocation or attempts to initiate a confrontation. If necessary, drivers should call 911 to report the aggressive driver.

11. How should drivers react to a flooded roadway in New York?


Drivers should never attempt to drive through a flooded roadway in New York. The depth of the water can be deceptive and there can be hidden hazards, such as potholes, that can cause considerable damage to vehicles. If a driver encounters a flooded roadway, they should turn around and find an alternate route.

12. How can drivers prepare their vehicles for winter driving in New York?


Drivers should prepare their vehicles for winter driving in New York by changing the oil, topping off all fluids, checking the tire pressure and tread wear, replacing worn windshield wiper blades, and having the battery tested. Additionally, drivers should pack an emergency kit with items such as a snow brush and ice scraper, blankets, jumper cables, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, nonperishable snacks, a bag of sand or cat litter for traction in icy conditions, and flares.

13. What is the legal age for operating a vehicle in New York?


The legal age for operating a vehicle in New York is 16 years of age.

14. What are the rules for stopping at a stop sign in New York?


The law in New York states that a driver must come to a complete stop at a stop sign. Drivers must yield to any pedestrians or vehicles in the intersection before proceeding. Drivers must also remain stopped until they can proceed safely, without obstructing other traffic.

15. Who has the right of way at an uncontrolled intersection in New York?


In the state of New York, the driver that arrives at the intersection first has the right of way. This is referred to as the “first-come, first-served” rule. All drivers must yield to vehicles already in the intersection. If two vehicles reach an uncontrolled intersection at the same time, the driver on the left should yield to the driver on the right.

16. What are the rules for using emergency lanes on highways in New York?


Emergency lanes on highways in New York must be used only in the event of an emergency. This includes vehicles that have broken down, vehicles that require immediate medical attention, and vehicles that are responding to emergency calls (e.g., fire, police, ambulance). Motorists should also be aware that emergency lanes are not to be used for passing or for regular driving purposes. It is illegal to drive more than 25 mph in an emergency lane, and vehicles should not stop or linger for long periods of time. If an emergency lane is blocked or otherwise obstructed, motorists are required to move to another lane as soon as it is safe to do so.

17. How should drivers manage their speed on curvy roads in New York?


Drivers should reduce their speed on curvy roads in New York in order to remain alert and aware of their surroundings. Curvy roads require drivers to pay extra attention to the road and potential hazards, such as other vehicles, pedestrians, and animals. The posted speed limit should be followed, but drivers should reduce their speed further if necessary. Additionally, when approaching a curve, drivers should decelerate gradually to increase traction and reduce the risk of a tire skidding or sliding.

18. What is the minimum age for having a learner’s permit in New York?


The minimum age for having a learner’s permit in New York is 16.

19. What is the rule for yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks in New York?


In New York, drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in all crosswalks on all streets, even if there is no signal or stop sign present. This means that you must come to a complete stop and allow pedestrians to safely cross before you proceed.

20. When should drivers use headlights during daylight hours in New York?


Drivers in New York must use their headlights during the period one-half hour before sunset to one-half hour after sunrise and during any other time when there is not sufficient light to render clearly discernible persons and vehicles on the highway at a distance of 500 feet.