1. Which side of the road do we drive on in Riverside?
In Riverside, like the rest of the United States, you should drive on the right-hand side of the road.
2. What are the general speed limits in Riverside?
Typically, the speed limits are 25-35 mph in urban areas, 55-70 mph on highways. School zones have a limit of 25 mph when children are present.
3. Do I need a special driving license to drive in Riverside?
No, a valid driver's license from your home country is typically sufficient, but an International Driving Permit is recommended if your license isn't in English.
4. How are speed limits enforced in Riverside?
Both police officers and speed cameras enforce speed limits. Fines for speeding can be substantial.
5. Are there any specific road rules I should be aware of?
In Riverside, you must not drive in a carpool lane unless there are two or more people in the car. Also, U-turns are permitted unless indicated otherwise.
6. How is the traffic situation in Riverside?
Like many big cities, Riverside can experience peak-hour traffic, particularly on major roads and freeways. It's advisable to allow extra time for travel during these times.
7. Are there many toll roads in and around Riverside?
Yes, there are some toll roads in Riverside. Toll rates vary based on the time of day and the specific toll road.
8. Are radar detectors permitted in Riverside?
No, radar detectors are illegal to use in any vehicle in California, which includes Riverside.
9. Is it mandatory to have car insurance in Riverside?
Yes, you must have car insurance to legally drive in Riverside. Your rental company will typically cover this with your rental agreement.
10. Do I need a customer vehicle parking permit in Riverside?
Riverside offers customer vehicle parking permits for specific designated areas. Check with the local transportation authority for details.
11. Is road rage an issue in Riverside?
While instances of road rage can occur anywhere, they are not particularly common in Riverside. It's always best to stay calm and collected when driving.
12. Are rest areas available along highways in Riverside?
Yes, there are plenty of rest areas along the highways in Riverside. They offer places to stop, restrooms, and sometimes vending machines.
13. Do road signs in Riverside use metric or imperial measurements?
Signs in Riverside and the rest of the United States use imperial measurements (miles and feet).
14. Is it usual for police officers to accept on-the-spot fines?
No, on-the-spot fines are not usual procedure with police officers. Any fine will be officially issued, with a given time to pay the fine.
15. If involved in an accident, what should I do?
In case of an accident, you should always stop the car. Call the police if it's serious, and be sure to exchange insurance details with any other parties involved.