Driving Differences: Bahamas vs. Panama Safety Tips
When it comes to driving in the Bahamas and Panama, understanding the nuances can significantly enhance your safety on the road. Key distinctions include driving on the left in the Bahamas versus the right in Panama, as well as variations in speed limits and vehicle regulations. Familiarizing yourself with these contrasts ensures a smoother, safer experience while navigating these vibrant destinations.
Driving Side
The driving side in bahamas is the Left Side of the road
Driving Safety Score
The driving Driving Safety Score in bahamas is 52
Gas Price in USD
The driving Driving Safety Score for bahamas is 1.417 US Dollars
While the driving side of a country remains the same, the driving safety score is updated annually based on each countries car accident fatality rate. Lastly, the gas price is only an estimate. Due to frequent fluctuations, it serves as a general reference rather than an exact figure for each country.
Lanes
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| Bahamas | Panama | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving Side | Left | Right | |
| Overtaking: On Right | Not allowed. | Allowed on multi-lane roads or when the vehicle ahead is turning left. | |
| Lane Usage: Slow Vehicles | Use leftmost lane. | Use rightmost lane. | |
| Bus Lanes: Presence | Not common. | Yes | |
| Bus Lanes: Usage | N/A | Reserved for buses and sometimes taxis. | |
| Bus Lanes: Markings | N/A | Labeled 'BUS' or 'BUS ONLY'; often with road signs. | |
| Cycle Lanes: Presence | No | Yes, in some urban areas | |
| Cycle Lanes: Usage | N/A | Exclusive for bicycles. | |
| Cycle Lanes: Markings | N/A | Bicycle symbols and often separated by barriers. |
Speeds Limits
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| Bahamas | Panama | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Urban Areas: Standard | 25 mph | 40-60 km/h | |
| Urban Areas: Residential Zones | 25 mph | 25-30 km/h | |
| Rural Areas: Cars And Motorcycles | 45 mph | 80-100 km/h | |
| Rural Areas: Buses And Vans | 45 mph | 80-100 km/h | |
| Rural Areas: Trucks And Trailers | 45 mph | 70-80 km/h | |
| Highways: Cars And Motorcycles | No highways | 100-120 km/h | |
| Highways: Buses And Vans | No highways | 80-100 km/h | |
| Highways: Trucks And Trailers | No highways | 70-90 km/h | |
| Speed Units | mph | km/h | |
| Enforcement: On-the- Spot Fines | Yes | Common |
Signals
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| Bahamas | Panama | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Traffic Lights: Red And Amber Together | Not used | Not used in Panama | |
| Horn Usage: Prohibited Times | Unnecessary use discouraged; local ordinances may apply | Unnecessary use discouraged, especially in urban areas | |
| Traffic Signs: Language | English; symbols are standard | Spanish; symbols are standard |
Turns
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| Bahamas | Panama | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Right Turn On Red | Prohibited | Generally not allowed |
Documentation
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| Bahamas | Panama | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Driver's License: Foreign: E U/ E E A | Accepted for short visits; International Driving Permit recommended | International Driving Permit recommended; national license accepted for short stays | |
| Driver's License: Foreign: Non- E U | Accepted for short visits; International Driving Permit recommended | International Driving Permit recommended; national license accepted for short stays | |
| Vehicle Inspection: Requirement | Yes, annual inspections required for all vehicles | Mandatory every two years for new cars | |
| Vehicle Inspection: Sticker | Displayed on license plate or windshield | Displayed on windshield | |
| Emergency Equipment: Warning Triangles | Not mandatory | Mandatory | |
| Emergency Equipment: Reflective Vest | Not mandatory | Recommended |
Road Etiquette
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| Bahamas | Panama | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Use Of Horn: Cultural Norm | Less frequent use compared to some countries | Frequent use, especially in urban areas | |
| Emergency Vehicles: Protocol | Pull over to the left and stop if necessary | Pull over to the right and stop if necessary |
When it comes to driving in the Bahamas and Panama, understanding the nuances can significantly enhance your safety on the road. Key distinctions include driving on the left in the Bahamas versus the right in Panama, as well as variations in speed limits and vehicle regulations. Familiarizing yourself with these contrasts ensures a smoother, safer experience while navigating these vibrant destinations.
Alcohol
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| Bahamas | Panama | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Limits: Professional Drivers | 0.05% | 0.04% | |
| Limits: Underage Drivers | 0.00%; zero tolerance | 0.00% (zero tolerance) | |
| Enforcement: Random Checks | Less common; checkpoints used in some areas | Common, especially during weekends |
Roundabouts
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| Bahamas | Panama | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Signaling: Exiting | Signal left when preparing to exit | Signal right when preparing to exit |
Emergency Services
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| Bahamas | Panama | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Contact: General Emergency | 919 | 911 | |
| Contact: Traffic Police | 911 | 104 | |
| Contact: Roadside Assistance | Check with your insurance provider | Contact insurance provider or services like Autorama | |
| Emergency Equipment: Warning Triangles | Not mandatory, but recommended | Mandatory | |
| Emergency Equipment: Reflective Vest | Not mandatory, but recommended | Recommended |
Penalties And Fines
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| Bahamas | Panama | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Common Fines: Speeding | Varies; $50 to $500, points on license | Varies; $50 to $150, points on license | |
| Common Fines: Seat Belts | $25 to $200, points may apply | $25 to $75 | |
| Common Fines: Phone Use | $50 to $300, points may apply | Varies; fines and points on license | |
| Common Fines: Traffic Light Violation | $100 to $500, points on license | $50 to $150, points on license | |
| Payment: On The Spot | Yes; can also be paid online or by mail | Rare; fines usually paid at designated locations |