Emergency Situations and Defensive Driving in Arkansas

1. What is the legal blood alcohol limit in Arkansas for operating a vehicle?


The legal blood alcohol limit in Arkansas for operating a vehicle is .08%.

2. What are the rules for passing a stopped school bus in Arkansas?


In Arkansas, drivers must come to a complete stop at least 20 feet away from any school bus that is stopped with its red lights flashing. Drivers must remain stopped until the school bus resumes motion and the red lights are no longer flashing, or until signaled by the bus driver to proceed. On a divided highway, vehicles going in the opposite direction of the stopped school bus are not required to stop.

3. In what situations should a driver yield the right of way in Arkansas?


A driver should yield the right of way in Arkansas when:

1. Approaching a yield sign
2. Making a left hand turn at an intersection
3. When two vehicles arrive at the same time at an intersection without a stop or yield sign
4. When a pedestrian is in a crosswalk
5. When approaching an intersection with traffic control signals, yield to vehicles already in the intersection
6. When the driver is merging onto a highway from an entrance ramp or side road
7. When an emergency vehicle is approaching with sirens and flashing lights activated

4. What is Arkansas’s distracted driving law?


Arkansas prohibits any form of distracted driving, including texting while driving. Drivers under the age of 18 are also prohibited from any use of cell phones, regardless of whether they are texting or not.

5. Is it legal to use a cell phone while driving in Arkansas?


No, it is not legal to use a cell phone while driving in Arkansas. Arkansas has a “Hands-Free Law” which bans drivers from holding or using their cell phone while operating a motor vehicle. There are exceptions for making emergency calls and using hands-free devices.

6. When should a driver use high beams in Arkansas?


In Arkansas, drivers should use their high beams when driving on an open highway or in rural areas at night. High beams should not be used when approaching other vehicles or when visibility is impaired.

7. What is the speed limit on highways in Arkansas?


The speed limit on highways in Arkansas varies depending on the type of highway and the area, but generally the speed limit ranges from 55 mph to 75 mph.

8. How long are drivers allowed to drive without taking a break in Arkansas?


In Arkansas, drivers of commercial motor vehicles are allowed to drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty. Additionally, drivers are required to take a 30-minute break after 8 hours of consecutive driving.

9. What should drivers do when approaching a railroad crossing in Arkansas?


When approaching a railroad crossing in Arkansas, drivers should reduce speed, look both ways, and listen for any oncoming trains. If necessary, they should come to a complete stop and wait for the railway signal to indicate it is safe to proceed.

10. How should drivers react if they encounter an aggressive driver on the road in Arkansas?


It is important for drivers in Arkansas to remain calm and remain aware of their surroundings when encountering an aggressive driver. It is recommended that drivers avoid eye contact, and try to keep at least one car length of distance between them and the aggressive driver. Drivers should also avoid honking the horn, using aggressive hand gestures, or returning a hostile attitude. If the situation becomes dangerous, drivers should safely exit the roadway and contact local law enforcement.

11. How should drivers react to a flooded roadway in Arkansas?


Drivers in Arkansas should avoid flooded roadways, as it can be very hazardous. The water may be deeper than it appears, and the road beneath may be damaged. If a driver must cross a flooded roadway they should do so with extreme caution, and with the lowest gear selected. It is recommended that drivers should not drive through water deeper than the bottom of the tires.

12. How can drivers prepare their vehicles for winter driving in Arkansas?


Drivers in Arkansas can prepare their vehicles for winter driving by making sure that all of the fluids are full and topped off, such as the oil, antifreeze, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. They should also check their tires to make sure they have adequate tread and pressure, and make sure the lights and windshield wipers are working properly. They should also pack an emergency kit with items such as blankets, flashlights, food, water, and first aid supplies in case of an emergency. Lastly, drivers should ensure that they have a full tank of gas and know the weather conditions before they start their trip.

13. What is the legal age for operating a vehicle in Arkansas?


The legal age for operating a vehicle in Arkansas is 16 years old.

14. What are the rules for stopping at a stop sign in Arkansas?


The rules for stopping at a stop sign in Arkansas are as follows:

1. Drivers must come to a complete stop at the stop line, crosswalk, or before entering the intersection.

2. Drivers must yield the right-of-way to all vehicles already in the intersection.

3. Drivers must remain stopped until it is safe to proceed.

4. When turning right on red, drivers must stop and check for cross traffic and pedestrians before proceeding.

15. Who has the right of way at an uncontrolled intersection in Arkansas?


At uncontrolled intersections in Arkansas, motorists must yield the right of way to vehicles already in the intersection or entering from the right. When two vehicles arrive at the intersection at the same time, the vehicle on the left must yield the right of way to the vehicle on the right.

16. What are the rules for using emergency lanes on highways in Arkansas?


In Arkansas, drivers are only allowed to use the emergency lane on a highway if their vehicle has stopped working and they need to pull off the road safely. Additionally, drivers may use emergency lanes if they need to avoid an obstacle in the road or help a disabled vehicle. Drivers should never use emergency lanes to pass other cars, and vehicles should only remain in an emergency lane long enough to fix the problem or wait for assistance.

17. How should drivers manage their speed on curvy roads in Arkansas?


Drivers should always adjust their speed to the road conditions and adjust their speed to account for the curves in the road. It is important to avoid sudden, jerking motions when driving on curves, as this can cause the vehicle to lose traction. Additionally, drivers should allow extra room between their vehicle and other cars, so they have enough time and space to safely navigate the curve. Finally, drivers should reduce their speed before entering a curve so that they can safely navigate the twist and turns in the road.

18. What is the minimum age for having a learner’s permit in Arkansas?


In Arkansas, the minimum age for having a learner’s permit is 14 years old.

19. What is the rule for yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks in Arkansas?


In Arkansas, drivers must yield to pedestrians when approaching a crosswalk. This means that drivers must stop and allow pedestrians to safely cross before entering the crosswalk. Drivers must also be aware of pedestrians in the vicinity of crosswalks, even if they are not actively crossing.

20. When should drivers use headlights during daylight hours in Arkansas?


In Arkansas, drivers are required to use headlights during the following times: during periods of precipitation (rain, snow, sleet, etc.), when visibility is less than 500 feet due to atmospheric conditions (fog, dust, snow, etc.), and when visibility is reduced due to smoke or any other condition.