There are numerous domestic flights, railways, and bus connections. In the metropolises, there are also subways and other means of public transport. Depending on the location, it is advisable to avoid public transport at night.
Participation in the traffic
The legislative competence for road traffic lies with the states so that in the individual states, there are partly deviating regulations.
In many states, turning at red lights is allowed to the right when the car has been brought to a halt, and no other person is endangered. However, it may be prohibited in individual cases and is then labeled accordingly, e.g., “No turn on red."
If there are “all-way stop signs" at junctions, all vehicles must stop at the stop line and then enter the intersection where they stopped in order.
Unlike in Germany, overtaking in the US is allowed in most states.
On halting school buses with the hazard warning lights switched on may not be passed. This also applies to come from the opposite direction vehicles.
Inform yourself before the trip about the traffic regulations, which partly deviate from the German regulations.
Keep the speed limits in the US. These are lower than in Germany. Exceeding the maximum speed or drunk driving threatens high fines or even imprisonment.
If you are stopped by the police, stay in the vehicle, open the window, put your hands on the steering wheel, and follow the instructions of the police officer. Do not get off without being asked, as this could be perceived as a threat and could lead to countermeasures.
Do not make a phone call while driving without hands-free phones. This behavior is banned in many states and will result in heavy fines.
Toll roads
Major highways (turnpikes operated by private companies), as well as bridges or tunnels, are often chargeable. The toll (so-called toll) can be paid at toll stations in cash or in part with digital payment options.
About possibly incurred tolls and payment options, you should inform yourself in advance, e.g., at your rental car company.
Parking ticket
Traffic tickets (so-called ticket) for wrong parking, excessive speed, etc. you must pay absolutely, if possible even before your departure. Non-payment may inconvenience future arrivals and stays. For information, even after leaving the USA, the office that issued the ticket is responsible. The German diplomatic missions in the US have no way to remedy problems with punishments issued in the US. Pay your traffic tickets before you leave the US.
Rental vehicles and car insurance
Car rental companies often rent only to people who are at least 25 years old. When renting, it is advantageous to be able to present an international driver's license in addition to the national one.
The companies are obliged to inform tourists about possible dangers and, for example, to provide brochures on behavioral rules in road traffic. For rental cars, there is usually liability insurance up to a certain amount of damage. Not insurable are any punitive damages claims (so-called punitive damages). It is about very high sums of money. Convictions on punitive damages are not enforced in Germany. In the USA, however, enforcement and coercive measures from such a judgment are always possible - even in the event of future US residencies.
Driver’s license
In some US states, an international driver's license - in conjunction with the essential national driver's license - is required. By the way, it is also recommended to carry an international driving license (e.g., also in connection with renting a car). For information on each US state driver's license, visit the websites of each Department of Transportation. As a car driver, carry both your national and international driving license with you. here is most more info about ESTA Online USA Service Information. Visit the place and take a good service.