Home » Cheyenne Office » Driving And Car Accident Laws In Cheyenne, Wyoming
Speed Limits
Setting speed limits reduces the possibility and severity of crashes. Violating a Wyoming speed limit in Cheyenne can result in hefty fines. Therefore, follow the posted speed limits. Typically, the limits you are likely to see are:
- 75 mph on interstate highways (80 mph on specified segments)
- 70 mph on secondary highways
- 30 mph in residential areas
- 30 mph in business areas
- 20 mph in school zones
- 55 mph on unpaved roads
- 70 mph on paved roads
These maximum speed limits can change in certain instances. For example, if a licensed engineer conducts a study that proves the speed limit of a particular interstate highway should be changed, you will see different numbers.
Cheyenne and other areas in Wyoming have electronic variable speed limit signs installed on highways susceptible to weather conditions. The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) can adjust speed limits on such roads by 5 mph to a speed that is deemed safe based on the information provided by Highway Patrol troopers and snow plow drivers examining the conditions on the roads.
The department also announced the introduction of semi-automated variable speed limit signs, which use the information they obtain from the department’s sensors to change speed limits automatically. This innovation ensures safety is maintained on all roads, even when employees are unavailable to initiate the change.
A speed limit change prompted automatically can be adjusted by a trooper or any other employee if they have a valid reason for their adjustment.
Lane Changing
Before changing lanes on any road in Cheyenne, WY, you need to confirm it’s safe to move. Look in your rearview and side mirrors and then over your left and right shoulder to determine if there is a car in your blind spot. You should also look around to see if any other driver is moving into the same lane. Once you are certain it’s safe to move, signal your intention and change lanes.
Do not change lanes when on a solid white line and before/while in an intersection.
If someone fails to take safety measures when changing lanes, causing you to sustain an injury, contact us for a free case evaluation.
Seat Belt Laws
Occupants of a vehicle, including the driver, must properly wear seat belts at all times unless someone is legally exempt from this law. Additionally, children must be placed in appropriate restraint systems. It’s a driver’s responsibility to ensure everyone is buckled up.
Road Closures
In some instances, your car may not be allowed to use certain roads. For example, in hazardous conditions, only vehicles equipped with tire chains, all-wheel-drive cars, and those with adequate snow tires may be allowed to travel (chain law).
Besides, a road may be open, but traveling on it may not be recommended because of hazardous driving conditions. You will see advisory posts. If you are unfamiliar with the route or lack an urgent situation, it will be best to avoid traveling on it.
Roads in locations with high-speed winds have closure laws that limit the travel of vehicles with specific weights.
You may find yourself paying high fines if you violate a road closure.
The Use Of Cell Phones
Drivers should pay attention to driving. Using a cell phone is a distraction. In Wyoming, it’s unlawful to read or send a text message using a cell phone. In Cheyenne, using a cell phone while driving is prohibited. You will see signs with this information when you enter the city limits.
Loss Of Driving Privilege
Anyone who “abuses” their privilege of driving in Wyoming may lose it. Firstly, violating a traffic law may result in a suspension of a driver’s license — for example, when one is convicted of driving while under the influence (DWU) of alcohol or other drugs. The period of the suspension will depend on the frequency of the offense. A first offense may attract a suspension of up to 90 days, whereas a second one may result in a one-year suspension of a driver’s license.
Arrears in child support payments may also lead to losing driving privileges. It’s unlawful for someone to drive with a suspended driver’s license.
Car Accident Laws In Cheyenne, Wyoming
If you are involved in an accident in Cheyenne, be cautious about what you do next. Cheyenne authorities require drivers involved in an accident that results in injuries, death, or damage to property equaling or exceeding $1,500 to report the accident to the Department of Transportation (DOT) within 10 days unless the accident was investigated by a peace officer.
This report will be filled in two parts. Part I provides all the needed information about the accident to the DOT, and Part II discloses details required by the Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) regarding financial responsibility.
An accident report can be filled out and submitted online or printed and mailed.
Cheyenne Car Accident Lawyer
Road users in Cheyenne owe each other a duty of care — one needs to take reasonable care to ensure their actions don’t cause injury to another road user or property damage. If a driver violates the above-discussed laws, causing an accident that injures you or damages your property, you may be eligible for compensation.
Sources:
Motor Vehicle Accidents. (n.d.).
WYDOT: Definitions. (n.d.).
WYDOT: Quick Facts: SPEED LIMITS. (2016).
WYDOT to roll out speed limit signs that automatically change due to weather. (2022).
Wyoming Distracted Driving. (2021).
Wyoming: Rules of the Road. (2021).
