Driving on a highway can be intimidating, particularly, if you’re only used to driving on city or small neighborhood streets. There are more cars traveling at even higher speeds. This can lead to more serious car accidents. Use these tips to stay safe while driving on the highway.
Stay on the Right
If you’re uncomfortable speeding with other cars on the highway, it’s okay to stay in the slow lane on the right. Just make sure that you’re driving the speed limit and don’t impede traffic by going too slow. If you don’t feel comfortable driving the posted speed limits (or speed minimums) on the highway, it might be a good idea to drive an alternative route that skips the highway all together.
Take Turns
If you need to merge, let the other car go and then go after them. Take turns with other drivers on the road whenever possible. If there seems to be traffic ahead, avoid honking your horn. Cars usually slow down for a reason, there might be a car accident or a disabled car off to the side of the road. Be patient and eventually the traffic will clear up. There’s no reason to frustrate yourself or to develop road rage toward the other drivers. They’re in the same situation that you are.
Avoid Highway Traffic
There are certain times of the day when there’s a higher chance of encountering highway traffic. For instance, rush hour getting to and from work can be a predictable source of traffic. If at all possible, try to avoid driving on the highway during this time. Even leaving thirty minutes before or after these times can help you stay safer on the highway just due to the fewer number of cars on the road.
Turn Off Distractions
Driving with your cell phone is extremely dangerous. Some automotive manufacturers have even toyed with the idea that cell phones would become non-operational when the car is set to drive. Do what you can to not use your cell phone while driving. Even a few seconds to check out a text message or an email is long enough to put you and the other drivers on the highway in danger. If you have to use your cell phone, pull over to a safe place and use it.
Use Your Mirrors
When driving on the highway, it is especially important to use your rear view and side mirrors before switching into a lane. Because of the higher density of cars on the road, the fast speeds, and the poor driving habits of others, it’s critical to make sure that it’s safe to merge or switch into a different lane before you do. Using your mirrors is a great way to ensure that it’s safe to go.
Driving on highways is a great way to save time and to travel anywhere you want to go. Many of the major highways systems in the United States even have rest stops you can use along the way. Use these tips to make your highway travels even safer.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/primejunta/83753072/sizes/o/
Image via Flickr by Petteri Sulonen
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