Permit Flashcards

AT AN INTERSECTION OF TWO-WAY STREETS, AFTER COMING TO A FULL STOP AT A RED TRAFFIC LIGHT, A DRIVER MAY:

Answer: Turn right if the way is clear, unless otherwise posted

In Rhode Island, like most states, drivers are generally permitted to make a right turn on a red light after coming to a complete stop. This is allowed only if the way is clear of traffic and pedestrians, and there is no sign explicitly prohibiting a right turn on red. This rule helps maintain traffic flow while ensuring safety at intersections.

WHEN SHOULD YOU NOT INSIST ON TAKING YOUR LEGAL RIGHT-OF-WAY?

Answer: When it helps prevent accidents

While you may have the legal right-of-way, it is always safer and more responsible to yield if insisting on your right-of-way would lead to a collision. Defensive driving prioritizes preventing accidents over strictly adhering to traffic rules in dangerous situations. Giving up your right-of-way can de-escalate potential conflicts and ensure everyone's safety.

YOU WANT TO MAKE A RIGHT TURN AT THE CORNER. A PEDESTRIAN WITH A GUIDE DOG IS AT THE CORNER READY TO CROSS THE STREET IN FRONT OF YOU. BEFORE MAKING YOUR RIGHT TURN, YOU SHOULD:

Answer: Wait until the person crosses the street

Pedestrians, especially those with guide dogs, always have the right-of-way at intersections and crosswalks. It is a legal and ethical obligation for drivers to yield completely to them. You must wait until the person has safely crossed the street before proceeding with your turn, ensuring their safety and avoiding any potential hazards.

WHAT DOES ALCOHOL DO TO YOUR DRIVING SKILLS AND JUDGMENT

Answer: It harms both driving skills and judgment

Alcohol significantly impairs both a driver's physical driving skills and their cognitive judgment. It slows reaction time, reduces coordination, blurs vision, and diminishes the ability to make sound decisions, assess risks, and respond appropriately to changing road conditions. These combined effects drastically increase the likelihood of accidents.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TRAFFIC LIGHTS WITH RED ARROWS AND THOSE WITH SOLID RED LIGHTS?

Answer: You cannot turn against a red arrow, even if you stop first

A solid red light typically allows a right turn on red after stopping, unless otherwise posted. However, a red arrow specifically indicates that turning in the direction of the arrow is prohibited, even after stopping, until the arrow turns green. Red arrows are used to control specific turning movements and ensure safety in complex intersections.