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- Rules of the Road Topics A - F
Rules of the Road Topics A - F
- Accidents
- Backing Up
- Bumpers
- Driver's License
- Door Opening
- Exhaust Systems
- Fines
- Fire Extinguisher
- Fleeing
- Follow Distance
Accidents are classified into two groups. They are the following.
Accidents to Report
- Reportable accidents are those where either one of the vehicles involved needs to be towed or an individual is injured.
- Duties: Police agency must be contacted, accident report is taken and turned into the State.
- Note: Failure to report is a citable offense.
Accidents Not to Report
- Non Reportable accidents are the fender benders and minor accidents where no one is injured and the vehicle can be driven from the scene.
- Duties: Police agency need not be contacted, but you are responsible to exchange drivers, owners, and insurance information with the other party (s) involved.
- Note: If you should cause damage to an attended or unattended vehicle or property and fail to stop and give proper information, the fine is $300 or not more than 90 days imprisonment, or both.
Limitations on Backing
Driver may not back any vehicle unless it may be done safely without interfering with traffic and only after yielding right of way to moving traffic and pedestrians.
Note: Backing is not permitted on any shoulder or roadway of a limited access (i.e., I-79, PA Turnpike, etc.).
Bumper Information
Bumpers are required to be attached to front and rear of all vehicles in which the bumper was attached from the manufacturer. (Bumper must meet specifications.)
Certain trucks have rear bumper as an option. If the truck came with a bumper from the manufacturer, you cannot remove it. Wooden bumpers are not permitted except for road service vehicles or wreckers.
Driver's License Information
- Must be carried at all times while operating a motor vehicle
- Photo card is valid for 60 days from validation date
- Class and Restrictions (Listings attached) must be adhered to
- Change of address or name - Operator has 15 days to notify the Department of any changes
- Lost, misplaced, or stolen license can be replaced by contacting Department, Notary Public, or Local State Representative
Note: Driving is a privilege allotted by the state, not a right. However, an "occupational limited license" can be issued following a license suspension under limited circumstances.
Opening & Closing Vehicle Doors
No person shall open a car door unless it can be done safely and without interfering with traffic. Also a door shall not be left open, on side of moving traffic, for time no longer than to load or unload passengers.
Exhaust Systems
All components of exhaust system shall be in a safe operating condition (i.e., securely attached, no leakage). Also system shall extend and discharge to outside edge of vehicle of body.
Fines
Fines are calculated as follows:
$35 fine plus $2 for every 2 miles per hour over the first 5 miles per hour over the posted speed limit.
For Example:
- (i.e., timed 50 miles per hour in a posted 35 miles per hour zone = $35 plus $20 = $55 Fine)
- (15 miles per hour over, $2 multiplied by 10 miles per hour = $20).
Fire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers are required for all vehicles towing a house trailer, also for motor homes and for vehicles with a truck mounted camper.
Also includes school buses and trucks over Class 2.
Fleeing or Attempting to Elude Police Officer
Person who fails to stop for audible or visual signal given by a police officer, commits a misdemeanor of 2nd degree, and is subject to a $500 fine in addition to a possible jail sentence.
Following Too Closely
No driver shall follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent having due regard for speed and traffic.