Driving in the U.S.

Drive on the right

If you are visitor from the United Kingdom, Australia, or any other country that drives on the left side of the road you will need to make some adjustments here.  In the U.S. all vehicles drive on the right side of the road at all times.  One of the most important times to remember this is when you are making turns.  Make sure you turn onto the right side of the road or you will not get far.  Also, when stopped at stoplights, it is legal (unless otherwise posted on a sign) to make a RIGHT turn during a red light if no oncoming traffic is coming.  Left turns on red are not only illegal, but highly dangerous.

Tolls

There are several main roads in Orlando that have tolls, or charges to use the road.  State Road 408, State Road 417, the Florida Turnpike, parts of State Road 528 Beachline, and several smaller roads all have tolls.  We recommend always carrying cash on you while driving around Orlando (at least $10) so that you are prepared for any toll booth encounters.  Also, it should be noted, that some toll booths only accepts coins, so carrying $2 or $3 in coins is also a good idea.

Drinking and Driving

Drinking alcohol and then driving a vehicle is taken very seriously in the United States.  The legal limit for alcohol in the bloodstream for adults over 21 is .08%.  If you are caught with a higher percentage you can face fines and possibly jail time.  We suggest taking a taxi if you have been drinking just to be safe, and if you do decide to drive make sure you have only had one or two drinks depending on your normal alcohol intake.  Drivers under the age of 21 who are found with alcohol in their bloodstream (any amount at all) will be prosecuted.

Seat Belts

In Orlando and in all of Florida seat belts are required by law.  If a police officer spots you or anyone else in your car riding without a seat belt then they have the authority to pull you over and issue you a $30 ticket.

Insurance

If you are visiting with your car from another part of the country or another country then you must have the proper insurance to drive here as well as proper registration for the car.  If you are visiting, and rent a car, then it is highly suggested you pay the extra insurance fee in case you get into an accident while on vacation.

Gas (Petrol) Stations

Gas stations in Orlando are all self serve stations.  They have unleaded and diesel fuel available.  If you rent a car here the rental company will tell you what type of fuel to buy, but it will most likely be regular unleaded fuel.  You can get gas 24 hours a day in most areas of Orlando by going to one of the major stations in the area.

Motorcycles

Riding a motorcycle is a great way to get around Central Florida and see its’ natural beauty.  The same driving rules apply to motorcycles that apply to all other motor vehicles.  In Florida it is not required to wear a helmet while driving a motorcycle, but this is not the case in all 50 states in the United States.