Driving in Wyoming can be easy and safe if you know the basic traffic laws and follow them. Whether you are new to driving, visiting the state, or living there, understanding the rules helps you avoid accidents and fines. This guide explains important traffic rules in simple English, so even a teenager can understand them. It also tells you what to avoid so you don’t get into trouble or have to pay expensive tickets.
Speed Limits and Driving Carefully
In Wyoming, the speed limit on interstate highways is 80 miles per hour, but that doesn’t mean you should always drive that fast. You must also avoid driving too slowly if it blocks other cars. If you stay in the left lane without passing, you can get fined. On other roads like city streets, highways, school zones, or private roads, the speed limits will be different. Always check road signs for the correct speed.
It is important to keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. A good rule is to keep a space of two seconds for every 20 feet of your car’s length. If you hit the car in front, usually you are at fault.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Rules
Driving after drinking alcohol or using drugs is very serious in Wyoming. If your blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% or higher, you can be charged with DUI. Police may ask for a breath, blood, or urine test. Refusing these tests can lead to further action, like a warrant for your blood sample.
For the first DUI offense, penalties may include:
- A 90-day license suspension
- Up to 6 months in jail
- A fine of up to $750
If you repeat the offense, punishments get harsher, including higher fines and longer suspensions.
Important Traffic Rules to Remember
Passing on the Left: You can drive 10 mph over the speed limit to pass another car on the left, but only if it’s safe and allowed. You must return to the right lane and slow down after passing. Passing is not allowed in no-passing zones.
Using Your Phone: Using your phone while driving is illegal in Wyoming unless you use hands-free devices. You can only use your phone when parked or in emergencies. If caught texting or holding the phone, you may have to pay up to $75.
Stopping for School Buses: You must stop whenever a school bus has flashing red lights, no matter which way you are driving. You can move only after the bus turns off its lights or starts moving.
Pedestrian Safety: Always stop for pedestrians, even if there is no traffic signal. Treat every crossing as a place where people might walk.
Major Traffic Violations and Laws
Some important laws in Wyoming cover serious traffic violations like drinking and driving, driving without a license, no insurance, expired vehicle registration, illegal U-turns, hit-and-run accidents, reckless driving, running red lights, seat belt violations, and speeding. These laws are part of Wyoming’s Statutes, Title 31, which keeps roads safe.
What To Do If You Get a Ticket
If you receive a traffic ticket in Wyoming, don’t ignore it. You can talk to a traffic ticket lawyer who knows Wyoming law. They may help reduce your fines or fight the ticket in court. Acting quickly is important to protect your rights and your driving record.
Knowing Wyoming’s traffic laws and following them helps you avoid fines, license problems, and jail time. Respect speed limits, avoid using phones while driving, stop for pedestrians and school buses, and keep a safe distance on the road. Driving safely is not just about following rules—it’s about protecting yourself, your passengers, and others on the road. Remember these tips to enjoy safe and stress-free driving in Wyoming.
