Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
MOTORCYCLE & RECREATIONAL VEHICLE (RV)
If you dream of riding a Harley,
EagleRider
( 888-900-9901;
www.eaglerider.com
)
has
offices in major cities nationwide and rents other kinds of adventure vehicles, too. Beware
that motorcycle rental and insurance are expensive.
Companies specializing in RV and camper rentals:
Adventures on Wheels
( 800-943-3579;
www.wheels9.com
)
Cruise America
( 800-671-8042;
www.cruiseamerica.com
)
Recreational Vehicle Rental Association
(
www.rvra.org
) Good resource for RV informa-
tion and advice, and helps find rental locations.
Road Conditions & Hazards
Road conditions are generally very good, but keep in mind:
»
Winter travel in general can be hazardous due to heavy snow and ice, which may cause
roads and bridges to close periodically. The
Federal Highway Administration
(
www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/index.htm
) provides links to road conditions and construction
zones for each state.
»
If you're driving in winter or in remote areas, make sure your vehicle is equipped with
four-season radial or snow tires, and emergency supplies in case you're stranded.
»
Where deer and other wild animals frequently appear roadside, you'll see signs with the
silhouette of a leaping deer. Take these signs seriously, particularly at night.
Road Rules
If you're new to US roads, here are some basics:
»
Drive on the right-hand side of the road. On highways, pass in the left-hand lane.
»
The maximum speed limit on most interstates is 65mph or 70mph; a couple of eastern
states go up to 75mph. It then drops to around 55mph in urban areas. Pay attention to the
posted signs. City street speed limits vary between 15mph and 45mph.
»
The use of seat belts and child safety seats is required in every state. In some states,
motorcyclists are required to wear helmets.
»
Unless signs prohibit it, you may turn right at a red light after first coming to a full stop
(note that NYC is an exception, where it's illegal to turn right on a red).
»
At four-way stop signs, the car that reaches the intersection first has right of way. In a
tie, the car on the right has right of way.
»
When emergency vehicles (ie police, fire or ambulance) approach from either direction,
pull over safely and get out of the way.
