TRAFFIC RULES IN NORTH CAROLINA

Attending the Bank of America ROVAL 400 should be about the roar of the engines and the electric atmosphere at Charlotte Motor Speedway – not about tickets, fines, or roadside issues. If you’re coming from out of state or traveling internationally, knowing a few of North Carolina’s driving rules will help you avoid problems and focus on the race.

Road rules

In North Carolina, as in most of the United States, drivers keep to the right-hand side of the road. If that’s not what you’re used to, take extra care at intersections, when leaving parking lots, and when making U-turns.

Speed limits

• Residential areas: usually 25–35 mph (40–56 km/h).
• Highways: often 55–65 mph (89–105 km/h).
• Interstates: up to 70 mph (113 km/h).

Always watch for posted signs, since limits can change, and adjust for traffic, weather, and road conditions. Police use radar frequently, and fines for speeding can be expensive.

Traffic lights and intersections

North Carolina enforces traffic signal laws strictly, and many intersections are monitored by cameras.

• You may turn right on red after a full stop, unless a sign says otherwise.
• Always yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic before turning.
• Don’t rush through a yellow light unless stopping would be unsafe.

Alcohol and driving

DUI laws are tough in North Carolina:

• BAC limit: 0.08% for drivers age 21 and older.
• Under 21: zero tolerance – any alcohol is illegal.

During race weekends and holidays, law enforcement sometimes sets up DUI checkpoints. If you plan to drink, arrange for a designated driver, rideshare, or taxi.

Seat belts

Seat belts are required for everyone in the vehicle. Police can stop you just for a seat belt violation, so make sure all passengers are buckled before driving.

Right-of-way and pedestrians

• Pedestrians always have the right-of-way in crosswalks.
• At stop intersections, the first vehicle to arrive goes first; if two arrive at the same time, the car on the right has priority.
• Around the Speedway on race weekend, expect heavy pedestrian traffic and drive slowly near entrances.

If you’re pulled over

If a police officer signals you to stop:

• Pull over to the right-hand side of the road safely, using your turn signal.
• At night, try to stop in a well-lit place.
• Keep your hands on the wheel, stay calm and polite, and follow the officer’s instructions.