If you’re a new driver, highway driving can be one of the most intimidating parts of getting behind the wheel. Not only do highways require faster speeds than urban and rural roads; there are also many more vehicles to contend with, including tractor trailers and other large trucks that have blind spots. Despite the risks of highway driving, it’s possible to keep yourself safe on these roads with just a little preparation. Get started by keeping these five tips in mind.

5 Tips for Safe Highway Driving

1. Pick A Day When Traffic Is Light

Research the busiest traffic times on your selected highway, such as rush hour, and avoid them. Schedule your inaugural drive when traffic is relatively light so you can get used to highway driving without feeling overwhelmed by speeding cars flying by you. Drive during the day for optimal visibility.

2. Keep Up With Traffic

Avoid speeding or driving too slow, as both chooses pose serious dangers to yourself and other drivers. Instead, keep up with the flow of traffic while noting the speed limit. Highway speed limits typically range from 50 miles per hour to 85 miles per hour.

3. Maintain a Safe Distance

As important as it is to keep up with traffic, it’s equally important to maintain a safe following distance. Adhere to the three-second rule — keep at least three seconds’ worth of distance behind the car in front of you — so you have time to react if the driver slams on his brakes. If snow, ice, or rain are factors when you’re driving, increase this distance accordingly.

4. Stay in the Right Lane

Keep to the right lane, since the left lane is for passing only. Be aware of your blind spots; turn on your blinker and look behind you before switching lanes to pass. Leave four to six seconds of space between your vehicle and the one in front of you before changing lanes.

5. Never, Ever Back Up

Under no circumstances should you back up — or even come to a stop — while driving on a highway. It could lead to a serious, multi-car accident. If you miss your exit, simply proceed to the next one and drive back so you can re-enter the highway and make the correct exit choice. While circling around will cost you extra minutes, the consequences of trying to back up to the exit you just passed could be far more devastating.
 

Strengthen your highway driving skills by working with the instructors at Eaton Driving School in Rochester, NY. The school customizes lessons so drivers can work at their own pace and learn everything they need to know to stay safe and smart on the road. Call (585) 227-4800 today to schedule your first lesson, or learn more about classes online. Follow their Facebook page for additional road navigation tips.