Houston

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Road Safety

Traffic laws, street signage, and how to navigate safely on Houstonโ€™s roads as a newcomer.

Sections

1. Traffic Rules in Houston

Houston follows the traffic laws of the state of Texas and the United States. Here are the key rules to keep in mind:

General Rules

  • Driving Side: Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
  • Speed Limits:
    • Residential areas: 25-30 mph (40-48 km/h).
    • Urban streets: 30-45 mph (48-72 km/h).
    • Highways: 60-75 mph (96-120 km/h), depending on the area.
    • School zones: 20 mph (32 km/h) during school hours (flashing lights indicate active zones).
  • Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers. Children under 8 years old or shorter than 4'9" (145 cm) must use a child safety seat.
  • Right on Red: Permitted unless otherwise indicated by signage. Always come to a complete stop before turning.
  • Stop Signs: Always stop completely at stop signs and yield to other vehicles or pedestrians.
  • Cell Phone Use: Texting while driving is prohibited. Hands-free devices are allowed.
  • Drunk Driving: The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. Penalties for driving under the influence (DUI) are severe.

Traffic Signals and Signs

  • Obey all traffic lights and signs. Houston uses standard U.S. road signs, which include stop signs, yield signs, and speed limit indicators.
  • Watch for flashing yellow lights in school zones and pedestrian crossings.

Pedestrian and Cyclist Rules

  • Yield to pedestrians at crosswalks.
  • Cyclists share the road with vehicles and must follow the same traffic laws. Be cautious when passing cyclists and maintain a safe distance.

2. Safety Tips for Driving in Houston

Houston is a sprawling city with a complex network of highways, toll roads, and urban streets. Here are some tips to stay safe:

Navigating Highways

  • Houstonโ€™s highways (e.g., I-10, I-45, I-69) are often congested, especially during rush hours (7:00-9:00 AM and 4:00-7:00 PM). Plan your trips to avoid peak traffic times.
  • Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to monitor traffic conditions and find alternate routes.
  • Be cautious of aggressive drivers and avoid road rage.

Weather Considerations

  • Rain and Flooding: Houston is prone to heavy rain and flash flooding, especially during hurricane season (June to November). Avoid driving through flooded areas, as water levels can rise quickly.
  • Heat: During summer, extreme heat can affect tire pressure and vehicle performance. Regularly check your carโ€™s tires and fluids.

Parking

  • Parking in downtown Houston can be challenging. Use parking garages or metered street parking. Pay attention to signage to avoid fines or towing.
  • Avoid parking in unauthorized areas or blocking driveways.

Night Driving

  • Be cautious when driving at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Watch for pedestrians and cyclists.

3. Common Road Hazards in Houston

  • Traffic Congestion: Houston is one of the most congested cities in the U.S. Be prepared for delays, especially on major highways.
  • Construction Zones: Road construction is common. Follow posted speed limits in construction zones to avoid fines and accidents.
  • Flooded Roads: During heavy rains, avoid driving through water. Even a few inches of water can cause vehicles to stall or be swept away.
  • Wildlife: In suburban and rural areas, watch for deer and other animals crossing the road, especially at dawn and dusk.

4. Costs Related to Transportation

Fines for Traffic Violations

  • Speeding: Fines range from $150 to $300, depending on how much you exceed the speed limit.
  • Running a Red Light: $75-$150.
  • Parking Violations: $20-$75, depending on the infraction.
  • Driving Without a Seatbelt: $25-$250.
  • DUI: First offense can result in fines up to $2,000, license suspension, and possible jail time.

Toll Roads

  • Houston has several toll roads (e.g., Sam Houston Tollway, Hardy Toll Road). Youโ€™ll need an EZ TAG or TxTag to use these roads. Toll costs vary but typically range from $1 to $5 per trip.

Car Insurance

  • Texas law requires all drivers to carry liability insurance. Minimum coverage requirements are:
    • $30,000 for injuries per person.
    • $60,000 for injuries per accident.
    • $25,000 for property damage.
  • Average monthly insurance premiums in Houston range from $100 to $200, depending on your driving record, age, and vehicle type.

Gas Prices

  • Gasoline prices in Houston are generally lower than the national average. As of late 2023, prices range from $3.00 to $3.50 per gallon.

5. Procedures and Considerations for Driving in Houston

Obtaining a Driverโ€™s License

  • Visitors can drive with a valid foreign driverโ€™s license for up to 90 days. After that, youโ€™ll need a Texas driverโ€™s license.
  • To obtain a Texas driverโ€™s license, youโ€™ll need:
    • Proof of identity (passport, visa, etc.).
    • Proof of residency (utility bill, lease agreement).
    • Social Security Number (or proof of ineligibility if youโ€™re not a U.S. citizen).
    • Pass a written test, vision test, and driving test.

Renting a Car

  • You must be at least 21 years old to rent a car in Houston. Drivers under 25 may incur additional fees.
  • A valid driverโ€™s license and credit card are required.

Public Transportation

  • Houstonโ€™s public transportation system (METRO) includes buses, light rail, and park-and-ride services. While itโ€™s a viable option for some areas, having a car is often more convenient for navigating the city.

Emergency Numbers

  • Dial 911 for emergencies, including accidents or medical assistance.
  • For non-emergency police assistance, call the Houston Police Department at 713-884-3131.

6. Best Practices for Road Safety

  • Always carry your driverโ€™s license, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration.
  • Keep an emergency kit in your car, including a flashlight, first aid supplies, and jumper cables.
  • Stay alert and avoid distractions while driving.
  • Respect other drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.
  • If youโ€™re involved in an accident, Texas law requires you to stop, exchange information, and report the incident if there are injuries or significant damage.

By following these guidelines, you can navigate Houstonโ€™s roads safely and efficiently. Whether youโ€™re a visitor or a new resident, understanding the cityโ€™s traffic rules and road conditions will help you adapt to driving in this bustling metropolis. Safe travels!