Tips For Driving On A Highway

Nothing scares most drivers especially newbies like driving on busy highways. The thought of dealing with huge vehicles at high speeds, merging with moving traffic, missing exits or safely changing lanes at 100 km/h is what scares most drivers. Though these fears are legit, they can be overcome through a few tips for driving on a highway. These tips are your best shot at getting rid of the fear you have for the highway and they will ensure you arrive safely.

Check Your Car

Prior to driving out on a long trip on the highway, it is crucial that you check your car for safety. Ensure that all tires are properly inflated, the headlights and tail lamps are working properly and that the oil level and status is good for a long drive. Simple checks will eliminate any incidents that might create some complications on the highway.

Merging Into The Highway

Entering the highway is probably your biggest fear but this fear is founded and you can easily deal with it. The only thing that you need to keep in mind is moving at the same speed as the traffic and you will be alright. Modern highways have quite long acceleration lanes which give you enough distance to match the speed of the traffic and merge into it efficiently.

Track the Vehicles Near and Around You

It is important that you keep tabs of the vehicles around you, not forgetting to look behind you. Make it a habit to glance at all your mirrors after a few seconds and take note of the vehicles near you. This way, you will notice all approaching vehicles and you will be in a better position to drive without the fear that comes with vehicles suddenly appearing on your side. Don’t drive too close to other vehicles as this might deny you the time you need for breaking.

Dealing With A Break Down

Your car breaking down on the highway is another one of the many nightmares associated with driving on highways. Great maintenance and good driving will keep your car in a good condition but some mechanical problems are simply unavoidable. If your car develops some mechanical problem, ensure that you take it as far away to the side of the road as possible. Put your hazard lights on and get out of the car to a safe distance. Don’t forget to put up the reflective life saving triangles to warn other drivers especially at night. Call for a rescue team.

Exiting Out Of The Highway

When you want to exit, you should always plan ahead not only to exit safely but to be on the lookout for that convenient exit. You should be in the proper exit lane in advance to avoid any rush that might cause confusion leading to an accident. In case you miss your exit, do not panic as this might interfere with your driving, simply more to the ext exit and find your way back. NEVER stop on a lane and try to back up to an exit you just missed, this is the kind of driving that leads to an accident.