Driving in Michigan
by eby
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It's that time of year to enjoy the many scenic drives of Michigan. Here are a few urban myths and frequently asked questions the State of Michigan has answered:
- Can you turn left on red onto a one way street from a 2-way street? The answer is yes, unless otherwise prohibited, for both 1-way or 2-way onto a 1-way (the one-way being in the direction of the left turn). It is often reported that you can only go from one-way onto another one-way. However, MCL 257.612 (1)(c)(ii) states "..may make a left turn from a 1-way or 2-way street into a 1-way roadway carrying traffic in the direction of the left turn, unless prohibited by sign, signal, marking, light, or other traffic control device."
- Riding in a trailer? From the Michigan State Police Urban Myth release: There is nothing in the Michigan Vehicle Code that specifically prohibits riding in a trailer, regardless of the type of hitch or configuration. Two-way communication between driver and occupants is not required. (reckless driving of course still stands)
- Barefoot Driving? Also allowed. From the same release: "There is nothing in the Michigan Vehicle Code that prohibits barefoot driving. Careless or reckless driving would really be a stretch, as an argument could be made that a barefoot person has more control over the pedals. "
- Driving with headphones? Allowed, although "A driver could, however, be cited for careless, reckless, or failure to yield to an emergency vehicle if a police officer could show that the headphones interfered with the driver’s ability to safely operate the vehicle."
- Open Alcohol in RV's and trailers? Prohibited, as an RV is considered a vehicle and in trailers with passengers are considered the same. "Alcoholic beverages are required to be stored in an inaccessible area if there is no trunk available".
More information on the rules of the road can be found at the Michigan State Police website. Drive safely this summer!
Blog Post
Comments
Saw enough people turn from
Saw enough people turn from Washington onto Ashley that I finally looked it up a few months ago. I wonder how many states allow left-on-red-from-two-way-streets? Perhaps this was to try to make up for all those U-turns we're made to perform...
Quite interesting, as I never
Quite interesting, as I never knew these (but that's probably because I don't drive).
Very helpful! I always heard
Very helpful! I always heard that barefoot driving was illegal here.
I wish more people knew about
I wish more people knew about turning left on red onto a one-way street. I'll admit I get impatient if I'm behind someone who doesn't turn when they can. Interesting that driving barefoot and with headphones are both allowed.
Helpful. Now we should make
Helpful. Now we should make tourists aware of this information!
Interesting facts.
Interesting facts.
Good to know. I always
Good to know. I always assumed you weren't allowed to use headphones while driving. Now that I know, I still probably wouldn't.
great!
great!