Driving on Freeways: What You Need to Know

So, you can skip traffic and take the freeway home from work. Like always though, you decide not to out of fear. Speeding semi-trailer trucks moving at 65 mph can be intimidating for anybody. However, you’re only hesitant to get on freeways because you don’t know how to go about it.

Follow this guide to master driving on freeways.

Avoid Freeways When Circumstances are Unfavorable

Certain circumstances call for prudent action. Fog, rain, hail, or snow can all dangerously impair driving ability. On average, there are nearly 5,000 people killed and more than 418,000 people injured in weather-related crashes every year—more so, when vehicles move at the high speeds that they do on freeways.

Similarly, avoid the freeway when it’s congested with traffic. Moreover, it’s best to use your usual route and avoid the freeway on weekend nights and New Year’s Eve when drunk drivers are all too common.

Drowsy Driving: Don’t Do It

Drowsy driving is implicated in 100,000 police-reported crashes each year. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, on the other hand, estimates that 328,000 crashes occur due to drowsy driving every year.

According to the National Safety Council, if you are fatigued, you are three times more likely to be in a car crash. Simply put, don’t drive when drowsy. That goes double for driving on freeways.

Pick a Safe Lane and Stay in It

On freeways, faster traffic moves on the far-left lanes. Slower traffic moves on the far-right lanes. Knowing this should prompt you to select a lane suited to the speed you’re driving at and more importantly, to stay in it.

The very left lane on a freeway is used for a passing. The very right lane is used for entering and exiting. Avoid staying in any of these lanes other if you aren’t using them for these purposes.

Always Pass on the Left of Other Vehicles

On the freeway, when passing other vehicles, pass on the left. When you intend to change lanes, be sure to use your turn signals. Your mirrors are there for a reason. Use them and look over your shoulder before switching lanes.

There Should Be Enough Space Between Your Vehicle and Other Vehicles

Make sure to leave enough space between your vehicles and other vehicles. Don’t attempt to tailgate vehicles on a freeway. 23 percent of all motor vehicle crashes are rear-end collisions. Leaving enough room will allow you to maneuver safely if the situation calls for it.

Champions Driving School offers defensive driving classes in Houston and Pinehurst, TX. They are one of the most reputable driving schools in the state. They have been in the business for 20 years, offering some of the best teen and adult drivers education courses out there.

Get in touch today. Call (832)934-3077.