Pittsburgh, with its rolling hills, steep inclines, and iconic three rivers, presents unique driving challenges. Combine those with its maze-like intersections and tunnels, and navigating the city can be tricky even for seasoned drivers. On top of that, new rules and regulations in 2025 have added even more complexity to road safety and compliance. Here are five road rules that are commonly misunderstood or overlooked by drivers in Pittsburgh, and why understanding them is critical for everyone’s safety.
Turning Left at the “Pittsburgh Left” Intersections
The infamous “Pittsburgh Left” is a long-standing unofficial rule where the first left-turning car at an intersection quickly proceeds before the oncoming traffic starts moving. While this tradition has been widely understood locally, laws in 2025 enforce stricter penalties for drivers executing unprotected left turns without signaling or yielding first.
Failing to understand the updated right-of-way rules could lead to accidents or hefty fines. Remember that yielding to opposing traffic before turning is not optional. On busy streets like Fifth Avenue or Penn Avenue, intersection cameras are quick to spot violations, so stick to the proper protocol for left turns.
Right Turns on Red Aren’t Always Allowed
Pennsylvania law allows drivers to turn right on red lights after coming to a complete stop, but this isn’t always the case in Pittsburgh. Some intersections have clear “No Turn on Red” signs, especially in school zones or high-traffic areas. However, many drivers either assume turning is always allowed or fail to spot the signage.
Busy intersections, such as those in the Strip District or near Heinz Field, often experience heavy pedestrian traffic, making these rules even more critical. Always look for signs and ensure the crosswalk is clear before proceeding.
Navigating Multi-Lane Roundabouts
Roundabouts may be less common in Pittsburgh than in other cities, but their presence is slowly increasing to improve traffic flow. Unfortunately, many drivers remain confused about proper lane use and yielding rules within these traffic circles.
For instance, if you’re exiting on the first or second exit, you should typically stay in the right-hand lane; for third exits or U-turns, use the left lane. Not yielding to cars already circulating within the roundabout is another common mistake. Areas like Bakery Square have seen the introduction of these roundabouts, and misuse often leads to near misses and honking horns.
Stopping for Pedestrians at Crosswalks
Many Pittsburgh drivers misunderstand pedestrian right-of-way laws, especially at crosswalks without traffic signals. Whether marked or unmarked, pedestrians crossing at intersections have the legal right-of-way. Drivers must stop and yield, yet many fail to do so, leading to dangerous situations on busy streets like Liberty Avenue.
Additionally, Pennsylvania law has revisited pedestrian safety in 2025, increasing fines for failing to properly yield to anyone in a crosswalk. Awareness and patience can drastically improve safety for everyone sharing Pittsburgh’s roads.
Parking on Hills Without Proper Wheel Positioning
Pittsburgh’s hilly terrain adds another layer of complexity to parking. Many drivers don’t realize that Pennsylvania law requires angled wheel positioning when parking on a hill. If you’re facing uphill, your wheels should be turned away from the curb; facing downhill, they should point toward the curb.
Improper parking isn’t just a minor mistake; it can result in fines or accidents if the car rolls out of place. Areas like Mount Washington or the South Side Slopes are prime locations where this rule is frequently ignored. Avoid unnecessary risks by always double-checking your parked car’s wheel alignment.
Final Thoughts
Driving through Pittsburgh in 2025 comes with its share of challenges, from unique terrain to evolving regulations. These five road rules are all-too-easy to misunderstand but critical for ensuring everyone’s safety and compliance. By staying informed, vigilant, and aware of local driving laws, you can confidently handle the city’s roads, whether you’re weaving through Point State Park or navigating the bridges over the Monongahela. Stay informed, and keep Pittsburgh a safer place to drive.
