In a regular feature, News 6 traffic safety expert Trooper Steve Montiero helps Orlando-area drivers become better informed about the rules of the road. In this edition, Montiero answers viewer questions about the legality of making U-turns from multiple left-turn lanes and the protocol for yielding to drivers making U-turns. As residents of Florida may have noticed, many vehicles in the area have trailer hitches installed on the back, even when not towing anything. Through this segment, Montiero aims to educate and improve the driving skills of his audience.
U-Turns and Trailer Hitches: Understanding the Rules of the Road
Background
Navigating road regulations can be a complex task, especially with the ever-evolving nature of traffic laws. To address this, law enforcement professionals like Trooper Steve Montiero regularly provide guidance on road safety and traffic laws. One particular area of interest has been the rules surrounding U-turns and the use of trailer hitches.
U-Turns from Multiple Left-Turn Lanes
Q1: Is it legal to make a U-turn from a left-turn lane that is designated for multiple lanes?
A1: No. It is illegal to make a U-turn from a multiple left-turn lane. Drivers must use the designated U-turn lane or intersection when performing a U-turn.
Protocol for Yielding to U-Turns
Q2: Who has the right-of-way when a vehicle is making a U-turn?
A2: The vehicle making the U-turn has the right-of-way. Other vehicles approaching from either direction must yield to the U-turning vehicle.
Trailer Hitches When Not Towing
Q3: Is it legal to have a trailer hitch installed on a vehicle even when not towing anything?
A3: Yes. It is legal to have a trailer hitch installed on a vehicle even when not towing anything. However, drivers must ensure that the hitch does not obstruct the license plate or any other required equipment.
Q4: Can a trailer hitch affect a vehicle's fuel efficiency?
A4: Yes. A trailer hitch can slightly reduce fuel efficiency due to increased aerodynamic drag.
Q5: Are there any safety concerns associated with having a trailer hitch on a vehicle?
A5: Yes. Drivers must be aware that a trailer hitch can increase the overall length of the vehicle and may limit visibility when reversing.
Additional Considerations
A private bus carrying 41 passengers caught fire after colliding with a motorcycle on National Highway 44 in Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh. Preliminary police investigations suggest that the motorcycle's fuel tank ruptured and leaked fuel, causing the fire. The bus was reported to have multiple challans for traffic violations, and investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the accident.
The Madhya Pradesh Police has launched a new campaign called 'Nashe Se Doori Hai Zaroori' to create awareness among the youth about the dangers of drugs and addiction. The campaign, which is being led by Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, aims to highlight the importance of keeping the young generation drug-free in order to safeguard the country's future. Tripathi has urged everyone to understand their responsibility in creating a better India and to stay away from the path of destruction that substance abuse can lead to.
Studies have shown that surrounding yourself with greenery has significant benefits for mental health, including lower stress levels and improved mood. Engaging with indoor plants has been linked to reduced blood pressure and improved relaxation. A 2023 study also revealed that caring for indoor plants can increase mental well-being and emotional balance. Discover the top 12 indoor plants that can improve your health, happiness, and indoor air quality.
Devotees from all over India flocked to Vishram Ghat in Mathura to participate in the annual Bhai Dooj festival, a celebration of the special bond between brothers and sisters. The ancient Yamraj Temple was the center of the festivities as devotees took a dip in the holy Yamuna River and performed rituals to honor Yamraj and Goddess Yamuna. The festival is believed to bring blessings of long life, happiness, and prosperity to siblings and is a symbol of love and protection in Hindu mythology.
On the auspicious occasion of Bhai Dooj, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Union Health Minister JP Nadda extended their heartfelt wishes to the nation, celebrating the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. This festival, also known as Bhaiya Dooj, Bhai Tika, or Bhau Beej, is widely celebrated across India with love and festivity, symbolizing the unbreakable affection and dedication between siblings. The day holds great significance in Hindu mythology and is associated with the liberation of all living beings from suffering and the bestowal of happiness.
On Wednesday, April 30, Hindus will celebrate the auspicious festival of Akshay Tritiya, also known as Akha Teej. This day is believed to bring luck and success, and is considered free from all malefic effects. People often buy gold on this day as it is believed to bring prosperity and wealth in the future. Akshay Tritiya is also considered to be ruled by Lord Vishnu, who is a revered deity in Hinduism. The best time to buy gold on this day is between 06:11 AM and 02:12 PM, according to Drik Panchang.
As Diwali comes to a close, the festival of Bhai Dooj celebrates the unconditional love and bond between brothers and sisters with various names across India. This year, Bhai Dooj falls on October 23, with the tilak ceremony auspicious time from 1:14 PM to 3:29 PM. It is a time to cherish the cherished memories and create stronger relationships between siblings. Share heartfelt wishes and blessings on this day to celebrate the beautiful bond of love and togetherness.
Marking a historic moment, President Droupadi Murmu offered prayers at the Sabarimala Temple in Kerala, becoming the first serving state head to do so. She climbed the 18 sacred steps to reach the shrine and offered darshan to Lord Ayyappa, carrying the sacred bundle on her head. This visit holds symbolic significance as the president represents both Vaishnavism and Shaivism, making it a moment of unity in Hinduism.
As Diwali celebrations come to an end, the day after is marked by the auspicious festival of Govardhan Puja or Annakut. In 2025, this festival falls on Wednesday, 22 October, and is a reminder to express gratitude towards nature and the environment. Devotees prepare special offerings and decorate their homes with flowers and diyas, honoring Lord Krishna and the bounty of nature. While the article provides general guidance, it also urges readers to consult experts before implementing any beliefs or practices discussed.
The Udupi Catholic diocese has extended warm Diwali greetings, citing the festival as a symbol of moving from darkness to light, falsehood to truth, and death to new life. The diocese emphasizes India's diversity and unity in celebrating different festivals together. Sharing a symbolic story, the diocese urges people to be the candle of hope that relights peace, faith, and love in the world. The message concludes with a call to action to be the light that builds bridges of love, faith, and compassion.