DC Metro Area Traffic Don’ts: Regional Road Rules You May Not Know
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Washington, D.C. is unique as one of the few U.S. cities built according to a preconceived plan. DC Metro Area traffic do not’s some regional road rules you need to know. Its grid-based pattern of roads is relatively easy to comprehend, but maneuvering across it in a car can be a challenge. Following are some metro area traffic laws that aren’t necessarily common to other U.S. cities. Knowing these can help make you a safer driver, and make your time in DC more enjoyable.
Wireless Phones: According to D.C. Code Ann. §§ 50-1731.04-.05, unless it’s an emergency, drivers in DC can not use a wireless phone while driving, unless they’re using a hands-free device. Minor drivers can’t use a wireless phone while driving at all — even with a hands-free device.
Yellow Traffic Lights: According to 18 D.C. Mun. Regs. Ch. 21 § 2103.5(b), a yellow light at an intersection means that drivers must stop before approaching the next crosswalk, unless stopping immediately would be unsafe.
Right Turns at Red Lights: According to 18 D.C. Mun. Regs. Ch. 21 § 2103.7(c), the only direction a driver can turn while stopped at a red light is to the right.
Entering a Traffic Rotary: According to 18 D.C. Mun. Regs. Ch. 22 § 2208.7, drivers entering a traffic rotary (or circle) must yield to traffic already in the circle.
Particulars Regarding the K Street Access Road: According to 18 D.C. Mun. Regs. Ch. 22 §§ 2201.12 and 2203.8, left turns can not be made from a service roadway onto a through roadway, unless doing so is to proceed in the same general direction, and only at an entrance or exit established by the director.
Road Closure Notifications: Street closures and live traffic reports are available at all times on the District of Columbia website. Commuters and visitors are encouraged to monitor those pages regularly.
