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Road

The motorway (interstate and freeway) network, in America is very good. The general rule for numbering on US freeways and interstates is that the odd numbers go north-south and the even numbers go east-west over their whole length, although at any single, localised point it may seem different.

Driving is on the right. The speed limits on the different motorways can vary. The general maximum is 90kph (55mph), but some rural interstates allow limits of 110kph (70mph). Town residential areas can be as slow as 30kph (20mph), with specifically posted limits near schools. It is also illegal to pass a yellow 'School Bus' when it is stationary with its lights flashing. It is possible to turn right on a red light, after stopping to check that it is clear. Seat belts are obligatory for front-seat passengers. The minimum driving age is 16 years. Prosecution for drink-driving is severe; the maximum legal alcohol to blood ratio is 0.10%. A British driving licence is valid, but a temporary International Driving Permit is also a good idea because it carries a photograph. Petrol ('gas') is four to five times cheaper than in Europe. Virtually all 'gas stations' are open 24 hours a day on main roads and operate a pre-pay system at the pumps using a credit card; otherwise, it is necessary to make yourself known to the cashier.

The American Automobile Association (AAA; tel: (800) 222 1333) can provide information, and may offer reciprocal benefits to members of automobile clubs in other countries. It is necessary to report a serious accident to the authorities: Accident Report (tel: (214) 670 4455) and Accident Investigation (Follow-up) (tel: (214) 670 6954).

Emergency breakdown service:
AAA (800) AAA HELP or 222 4357

Routes to the city: Dallas is encircled by a motorway link road, which to the north and east is the I-635 (the LBJ Freeway), to the south it is the I-20 and to the west it is the L-12 (north part) and S-20 (south part). Various interstates meet this beltway and pass on towards the city centre. The ones that go right across the city are: the north-south I-35; the east-west I-30, which goes to Fort Worth in the west. The other major ones are I-75 (the Central Expressway) from the north; the I-80 from the east; the I-175 and the I-45 from the southeast; and the I-67 from the southwest.

Driving times to Dallas: From Austin - 4 hours; from Houston - 4 hours; from San Antonio - 6 hours away (all in Texas).

Coach services: Greyhound Buses (tel: (800) 231 2222, toll free in the US and Canada; website: www.greyhound.com) operate out of the bus station at 205 South Lamar Street (tel: (214) 655 7082). The facilities are limited to cafÉ, ATMs, vending machines and toilets with disabled acces. Greyhound operates coaches throughout America.



Copyright © 2001 Columbus Publishing
    
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