Driving in Florida - 10 Things UK Visitors Should Know

Driving in Florida for the first time can seem daunting. The steering wheel is on the other side, you're driving on the right and some of the road rules are quite different from those in the UK.

The good news is that most UK visitors quickly get used to it.

If you're hiring a car for your Orlando villa holiday, here are 10 things worth knowing before you leave the airport.

1. You'll be driving on the right

It sounds obvious, but it's worth reminding yourself every time you set off during your first few days – particularly when turning onto a quiet road with no other traffic to follow.

Take your time at junctions and remember: keep right.

2. You can often turn right at a red light

Unlike the UK, you can generally turn right at a red traffic light in Florida, provided you've come to a complete stop first, checked that it's safe and there isn't a sign saying NO TURN ON RED.

Don't let an impatient driver behind you rush you. Only proceed when you're satisfied it's safe.

3. Learn how a 4-way stop works

You'll frequently encounter junctions where all 4 approaches have STOP signs.

Everyone must stop completely and, generally, the vehicle that arrived first proceeds first. If 2 vehicles arrive at approximately the same time, the driver on the left normally gives way to the driver on the right.

They can look confusing at first, but you'll soon get used to them.

4. Take school buses very seriously

When a school bus stops to collect or drop off children and its red lights are flashing and stop signs extended, traffic may be required to stop.

The rules vary depending on the road layout and whether opposing traffic is separated by an appropriate physical barrier, so this is one Florida driving rule worth understanding properly before you travel.

Never simply assume you can pass a stopped school bus.

5. Keep your driving documents with you

When you're driving, carry your driving licence with you rather than leaving it at your Orlando villa.

You should also make sure the hire car's documentation remains in the vehicle. Your rental company will normally provide the appropriate registration/rental and insurance documentation, so check where this is kept when collecting the car.

It's also worth keeping your rental company's roadside-assistance number somewhere easily accessible.

6. Drinking and driving – don't risk it

Our advice is very straightforward: if you're driving, don't drink alcohol.

Florida also has strict open-container laws. An opened alcoholic drink generally shouldn't be in the passenger area of a vehicle, whether it belongs to the driver or a passenger. Florida law does provide limited exceptions, including containers stored in a locked glove compartment, locked boot/trunk or another locked non-passenger area.

If you've bought alcohol from a supermarket or liquor store, keep unopened bottles or cans sealed and securely stored for the journey back to your villa.

7. Make sure children are properly restrained

Florida requires children aged 5 and under to use an appropriate federally approved child-restraint device. Children aged 3 and under must use a separate child seat/carrier or an integrated child seat, while children aged 4 and 5 can use an appropriate child seat or booster seat.

However, the legal minimum isn't necessarily the safest option. Choose a child seat or booster appropriate for your child's age, height and weight, and follow the seat manufacturer's instructions.

For younger children, sitting in the rear of the vehicle is the sensible choice. In particular, never put a rear-facing baby seat in front of an active passenger airbag.

If you're hiring child seats with your rental car, check exactly what type you're getting before travelling.

8. Watch your speed – and know the Move Over rule

Speed limits are displayed in miles per hour, so at least that part will feel familiar!

Pay particular attention around residential areas, schools and roadworks.

Florida also has a Move Over law. When approaching certain stopped vehicles at the roadside, drivers may need to move into another lane where possible or substantially reduce their speed.

9. Understand Orlando's toll roads

If you're driving around Orlando, there's a good chance you'll use toll roads.

Before travelling, find out how your hire company's toll programme works and what it costs. Depending on where you collect your car, alternatives such as the Visitor Toll Pass may also be available.

Understanding the system before you travel is much easier than trying to work out an unexpected charge after returning home.

10. Don't panic if you miss a turning

Orlando's wide, multi-lane roads can take a little getting used to.

If you suddenly realise you're in the wrong lane, don't make a last-second manoeuvre. Continue safely and allow your sat-nav to recalculate the route.

An extra 5 minutes on your journey is far preferable to taking an unnecessary risk.

Before leaving the car hire depot…

After a long flight, it's tempting to load the suitcases and immediately head for your villa. Spend another 5 minutes familiarising yourself with the car first.

Find the lights, indicators, windscreen wipers, hazard lights, parking brake, gear selector and fuel gauge. Adjust your mirrors and seat and set up your phone or sat-nav before you start driving.

Check where the vehicle documentation is kept and make sure you have the hire company's emergency and roadside-assistance details.

Then take your time.

For many first-time visitors, their first Florida journey is simply:

Orlando Airport → villa → supermarket → bed!

After a couple of journeys, driving on the right usually starts to feel much more natural.

For more driving tips, expert advice and a wealth of useful information to help you plan your Orlando villa holiday, we recommend Simon & Susan Veness’s excellent Best Orlando Villa Holiday Guide, available for £19.99 from Amazon, Waterstones and other bookshops. Even better, every customer who books a villa holiday with Debbie’s Villas will automatically receive a complimentary copy.