Driving tips in Florida
Driving in Orlando isn’t vastly different from driving in the UK apart from the obvious fact that you drive on the other side of the road. In Orlando and the surrounding areas, roads tend to be in a grid formation meaning it is mostly straights and right angle turns.
Make sure you pay attention to road signs, and remember that when overtaking (or when being overtaken) it should happen on the left-hand-side rather than the right. However, be warned. In the States, ‘undertaking’ is not uncommon!
Four way stop signs
In Orlando, you are likely to encounter a four-way stop sign (aka an all-way stop sign). These are crossroads that will be labelled with a red, hexagonal ‘STOP’ sign; similar to the ones you might find back home. The rules state that you must come to a complete stop at these junctions, regardless of other traffic. If there is no other traffic you can then proceed on your required route, however if there is other traffic you must move in the order you arrived at the junction. Assuming three or four cars arrive at the junction at approximately the same time, the car to your right has priority and should be allowed first, similar to a roundabout system in the UK. It is mostly common sense, and making eye-contact and gestures will help you if you are unsure.
Right turns at a red light
In the USA, unless there are signs to the contrary, it is generally OK to turn right at a junction on a red light. Obviously you need to be sure there is no traffic coming in the opposite direction as you do not have priority, but simply be aware that you do not necessarily have to wait for a green light. There will be clear signs stating you cannot turn right on a red light if this is the case.
Parking
You are not allowed to park against the flow of traffic in the USA. For example, whilst travelling on the right-hand side of the road, if you see a parking space on the opposite side of the road you cannot park in it as you will be facing oncoming traffic.
