Highway Driving Tips
Written by Interstate Hyundai
Driving on the freeway can be a daunting task even for the most experienced of drivers, especially when you are going through the freeway ramp. You need to watch out for so many things when you are on the highway, including merging into fast-moving traffic, driving at 65 mph and above, or having to deal with fast-moving and huge semi-trailer trucks. All of this can be very scary and challenging, but fortunately, we here at Interstate Hyundai are here to help. If you follow some of our safety rules, you will be a safe and effective driver every time you get on the freeway.
Avoid Driving on Freeways in Bad Circumstances
Try your best to avoid driving on the turnpike during bad weather. This includes fog, rain or snow, and wet, slippery, or icy road conditions. You might also want to avoid the turnpike when there is heavy or congested traffic or a major holiday such as New Year's Eve and when it's a Friday or Saturday night. If there is no choice and you have to get on the freeway, be sure to slow down to a safe speed close to the flow of traffic. Be sure to leave plenty of space between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead of you. Also, make sure to keep an eye on the traffic that might be slowing or stopping, so you have enough time to stop suddenly.
Stay in a Safe Lane and at the Right Speed
When you're on the turnpike, you need to make sure that you drive safely according to the speed limit, flow of traffic, weather, and road conditions. Be sure that you're never driving faster or slower than the flow of traffic. The far left lanes on the turnpike are normally used for faster traffic, while the far right lanes are used for slower traffic, so be sure to select the lane that is best for you and stay in it. You should also note that the very right lane is used for entering and exiting the freeway, while the very left lane is used for passing, so try to avoid those lanes unless necessary. It's best to simply stay in the middle lane.
When Passing Other Vehicles
If you must pass other vehicles, be sure to do so on the left and never pass on the right side of a vehicle. While passing, be sure to turn on your turn signal to communicate to others that you are changing lanes. Also, make sure that you're always using your mirrors and look over your shoulder to make sure it's safe to change lanes before doing so.
Leave Plenty of Room
Never tailgate! Ensure that you are at a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you and the cars to your left and right side. Seeing as how you are traveling at a fast speed, you're going to need to make sure you have enough time to react to a traffic hazard and have the ability to stop before you strike the vehicle in front of you. You're also going to need to provide plenty of space for other cars to get around you if needed.
Enter the Freeway Safely
When you're getting on the freeway, make sure to flip on your turn signal, accelerate to a safe speed close to the flow of traffic, and then look over your shoulder and use your mirrors to make sure that you have a safe distance and opening. Once all of this has been executed, then merge safely onto the freeway. Another good rule of thumb when you're merging onto the freeway is to ensure that you are not in anyone's blind spot by not driving parallel to other cars.
Make Sure your Vehicle is Highway Ready at Interstate Hyundai
Before you set foot on the highway, you're going to want to make sure that your Hyundai is safe for highway travel by heading down to Interstate Hyundai and having your vehicle looked at by our experts! Our technicians specialize in everything from oil changes and tire rotations to complete transmission repair. We look forward to working on your Hyundai, and you can make an appointment right here at our dealership or by filling out our form here on our website. We can't wait to see you here at Interstate Hyundai!
