Driving in Inclement Weather in North Carolina

1. What is the minimum speed limit during inclement weather in North Carolina?


The minimum speed limit during inclement weather in North Carolina is 45 mph.

2. What are the laws regarding the use of headlights during inclement weather in North Carolina?


In North Carolina, headlights must be used whenever windshield wipers are on due to inclement weather. All vehicles must have two working headlamps, and in fog, snow, or rain, the use of low beams is mandatory. It is illegal to use high beams when there is any other vehicle within 500 feet. Furthermore, all vehicles must display a white light to the front and a red light or reflector to the rear.

3. Is it required to have winter tires in North Carolina during inclement weather?


No, it is not required to have winter tires in North Carolina during inclement weather.

4. What items should be included in a vehicle’s emergency kit in North Carolina?


In North Carolina, a vehicle’s emergency kit should include a first-aid kit, a flashlight with extra batteries, jumper cables, an ice scraper, a small shovel, a tire pressure gauge, a warning triangle or flares, water and non-perishable snacks, blankets, a fire extinguisher, and spare fuses.

5. What are the laws regarding the use of windshield wipers during inclement weather in North Carolina?


In North Carolina, it is illegal to operate a vehicle without operating windshield wipers when it is raining, sleeting, or snowing. Additionally, it is illegal to drive with the windshield wipers on when it is not raining.

6. Are there fines for not following the speed limit during inclement weather in North Carolina?


Yes, there are fines for not following the speed limit during inclement weather in North Carolina. Generally, if you are caught speeding in bad weather, you can expect to receive a ticket and pay a fine that can range from $100 to $1,000, depending on the severity of the infraction.

7. Is it legal to use studded snow tires in North Carolina?


Yes, it is legal to use studded snow tires in North Carolina.

8. Are there any special requirements for the use of chains or snow cables on tires in North Carolina?


Yes. The North Carolina Department of Transportation has particular requirements for the use of chains or snow cables on tires when driving in certain areas of the state. Chains must be installed on all drive wheels, and cables must be installed on at least two drive wheels. Chains should be checked every 50 miles and adjusted if necessary. If a vehicle is equipped with anti-lock brakes, the snow cables must be specifically designed for use with vehicles with anti-lock brakes. Also, chains or snow cables may not be used in certain areas of the state, such as on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

9. What is the maximum speed limit on mountain passes during inclement weather in North Carolina?


According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation, the maximum speed limit on mountain passes during inclement weather is 45 miles per hour.

10. How often should vehicle tires be inspected for wear and tear during inclement weather in North Carolina?


It is recommended that tires be checked before and after any long trips and once a month during inclement weather in North Carolina.

11. What are the laws regarding the use of fog lights during inclement weather in North Carolina?


Fog lights may be used in North Carolina only when experiencing inclement weather, such as heavy fog, rain or snow. Once the visibility improves, the fog lights should be turned off. Drivers should also be sure to dim their headlights when approaching other vehicles in order to avoid blinding other drivers. Additionally, it is a violation of North Carolina law to drive with only fog lights on during periods of normal visibility.

12. Is it required to have a warning device if a vehicle becomes stranded during inclement weather in North Carolina?


No, it is not required to have a warning device if a vehicle becomes stranded during inclement weather in North Carolina. However, it is recommended that drivers carry a warning device such as flares or reflective triangles to help alert other drivers of their presence in an emergency situation.

13. How often should vehicle brakes be inspected for wear and tear during inclement weather in North Carolina?


According to the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles, brakes should be inspected at least once a year or every 10,000 miles. In addition, during inclement weather, brakes should be inspected more frequently for signs of wear or damage.

14. Are there any special requirements for using 4-wheel drive vehicles during inclement weather in North Carolina?


Yes. All 4-wheel drive vehicles operated in North Carolina must be equipped with safety chains, a spare tire, snow tires, a heavy-duty battery, and a set of tools sufficient to replace the tires and battery. All drivers of 4-wheel drive vehicles are also expected to take special precautions when driving in inclement weather, such as driving slowly and increasing following distances.

15. Is it legal to tailgate other vehicles during inclement weather in North Carolina?


No, it is not legal to tailgate other vehicles in North Carolina during inclement weather. According to North Carolina Department of Transportation, “it is illegal to tailgate in all weather conditions in North Carolina.”

16. Are there any special requirements for using all-wheel drive vehicles during inclement weather in North Carolina?


Yes, there are special requirements for using all-wheel drive vehicles during inclement weather in North Carolina. The driver must have an all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive vehicle with appropriate tires and must use caution when driving in wet, icy, or snowy conditions. All-wheel drive vehicles should not be used on dry pavement as they can make the car difficult to control. Furthermore, drivers should always be aware of their vehicle’s traction control system and keep it activated for the best traction possible.

17. Are there fines for not following chain control regulations during inclement weather in North Carolina?


Yes. Fines for not following chain control regulations during inclement weather in North Carolina can range from $50-$100 depending on the severity of the violation.

18. What is the minimum insurance coverage required for vehicles driving on highways during inclement weather in North Carolina?


The minimum insurance coverage required for vehicles driving on highways in North Carolina is liability coverage. This includes $30,000 for bodily injury to one person, $60,000 for bodily injury to two or more people, and $25,000 for property damage.

19. How often should vehicle windshield wipers be replaced during inclement weather in North Carolina?


It is recommended that windshield wipers be replaced every 6 months to ensure maximum visibility during inclement weather in North Carolina.

20. Are there any restrictions on parking on roadsides during inclement weather in North Carolina?


Yes. During inclement weather, North Carolina implements Winter Weather Emergency Routes (WWER). These WWER routes restrict parking in order to facilitate the safe passage of vehicles during periods of snow and ice.