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  • USA Measurement System

    USA Measurement System

    Navigating the Measurement Maze in the USA

    So, you’re planning a trip to the United States, and here’s what you might encounter. Picture this: the thermometer displays a balmy 75°F, you grab a couple of pounds of veggies and 2 gallons of OJ at the store, the GPS chirps about a right turn in 500 feet, and the city’s speed limit is a modest 25 mph. Feeling confused? Let’s demystify it. The USA measurement system has its English roots in the good ol’ imperial system. Feet, gallons, miles – all imported from across the pond.

    While much of the world embraced the metric system, even the UK, the US held its ground. Attempts to convert were thwarted by hefty costs and a dash of American conservatism.

    Adapting to most measures is a breeze, yet some require a bit of memorization or a trusty calculator. To make things easier, here’s a handy cheat sheet:

    Money: The $ sign precedes the number, whereas the cent sign follows: $500, 25c.

    Additionally, coins go by distinct names:

    • Penny – 1c
    • Nickel – 5c
    • Dime – 10c
    • Quarter – 25c

    Length:

    • 1 mile = 1.6 km
    • 1 foot = 0.304 meters
    • 1 inch = 2.54 cm

    Area: Apartment sizes are often given in square feet. For example:

    • 1 ft² = 0.09 m²
    • 100 ft² = 9 m²
    • 1 acre = 0.405 hectares

    Weight:

    1 pound (lb) = 454 grams

    1 ounce (oz) = 28.3 grams

    Liquid:

    • 1 gallon (gal) = 3.78 liters
    • 1 pint (pt) = 0.47 liters
    • 1 fluid ounce (fl oz) = 29.5 ml

    Notably, gallons are the go-to for water, juices, and milk due to their cost-effectiveness.

    Temperature: To convert Fahrenheit ( °F) to Celsius ( °C), use the formula: ( °F – 32) x 5/9 = °C. Conversely, to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit: (9/5 x °C) + 32 = °F.

    For quick reference, memorize these benchmarks:

    32°C = 90°F

    21°C = 70°F

    10°C = 50°F

    0°C = 32°F

    -10°C = 14°F

    -20°C = -4°F

    -30°C = -22°F

    -40°C = -40°F

    Dates:

    Unlike many other countries, Americans write dates with the month first, followed by the day and then the year. Furthermore, for single-digit days, omit the leading zero. For instance, 4/11/2019 translates to April 11, 2019.

    Author: Iryna Horbacheva

    Want to learn more about how to find proper accommodation? Read our article, Finding Accommodation for Travel Newbies.

    Optimize your airline ticket costs with our recommendations: Smart Strategies for Buying Airline Tickets.

    We have also prepared some helpful articles for those who plan to visit the USA: Traffic Rules in the United States.

  • Traffic Rules in the United States

    Traffic Rules in the United States

    Exploring the highways and byways of the USA? Before you hit the road, it’s essential to understand the key traffic rules in the United States, especially if you’re from Ukraine. Buckle up for some important differences, with a focus on California.

    Essential Traffic Rules in the United States: What You Need to Know

    Distances measure in miles: 1 mile = 1.6 km, and 100 mph = 160 km/h.

    Most road signs use text rather than symbols. They clearly state what drivers can or cannot do in a particular situation. Even with basic English, most signs are easy to understand.

    A yellow line always separates oncoming lanes.

      Right-of-Way and Traffic Light Rules

      At unregulated intersections, the first car to arrive has the right of way. If two cars arrive at the same time, the vehicle on the right goes first. Forget about the typical right-of-way rule used in other countries.

      Drivers can turn right at a red light unless a sign prohibits it or the turn has its own traffic light section. Before turning, they must yield to all vehicles and pedestrians.

      Traffic lights sit behind the intersection rather than in front. This setup may feel unusual at first.

      A double solid line only prohibits overtaking. Drivers can safely cross it when turning left into a yard, gas station, or driveway—just ensure the turn doesn’t disrupt traffic. However, never cross two double solid lines.

      Passing a stopped school bus with flashing signals is one of the most serious violations. Even if you’re driving in the opposite direction, you must stop. Fines start at about $700.

        Speed Limits and Road Regulations

        On highways, a special Carpool or HOV lane serves vehicles with two or more passengers. Driving alone in this lane results in a fine unless you have a hybrid or electric car (California’s exception).

        City speed limits range from 25–35 mph, while highways allow 75–85 mph. Speeding by 5–10 mph on highways or intercity roads rarely results in a fine, but penalties start at $150. Near schools, kindergartens, and construction zones, fines double.

        Drivers must keep open alcohol containers in the trunk or sealed and far from the driver. Passengers cannot drink alcohol inside the car. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers over 21 is 0.8 ppm.

        Everyone in the car must wear seat belts. If a passenger doesn’t buckle up, they receive a fine.

        If police signal you to stop, pull over immediately and stay inside. Do not exit unless instructed.

          Approximate fines for reference:

          • Running a red light — from $70
          • Traffic block at the intersection — from $500
          • Not wearing seat belts — from $70
          • Drunk driving — depends on the ppm (fine from $1000 to a prison term or correctional labor up to 6 months)

          If you want to learn more about the specialties of the United States, read our article about Measurement Maze in the USA. Understanding the traffic rules in the United States will make your driving experience safer and more predictable.

          Author: Iryna Horbacheva

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