Tips for Driving on the Freeway for Teens
Get a highway ready Hyundai at Pearson Hyundai
Driving on the highway can be a challenge for most young drivers. This is especially true when they need to get on the freeway ramp. Merging into a group of traffic while going at high speed or having to deal with other traffic and semi-trucks can be challenging and scary, especially if you're not used to it. Here at Pearson Hyundai, we want to help all young drivers achieve some proficiency every time they set foot on the turnpike, which is why we have come up with some tips that teens can use that should help them ease their minds.
Avoid Driving While Tired
Research has shown that driving while you're tired can lead to accidents which means it's unsafe to drive on freeways when you are half asleep. So don't ever get behind the wheel if you haven't gotten a good night's sleep or if you are impaired. If you absolutely have to get somewhere, make sure you have a designated driver or that you call a taxi or get public transportation. Traveling while you're impaired is dangerous and remember that your safety should be the number one priority.
Avoid Freeways in Adverse Conditions
Try to avoid driving on the turnpike if there is bad weather such as fog, rain, or snow, leading to slippery road conditions, which can lead to accidents. If there is busy or bumper-to-bumper traffic, it might not be a good time to travel on the freeway if you're not experienced. It's best to practice when freeways are clearer as you can move easier. If you don't have a choice and have to take the freeway, be sure to slow down to a safe speed that is close to the flow of traffic and leave enough room between your car and the traffic in front of you. Make sure that you keep looking ahead to recognize traffic that is slowing and stopping, so you give yourself time to stop. You might need to cover your brakes while traffic is congested and there is tons of traffic.
Stay in a Safe Lane
Always drive at a safe speed according to the posted speed limit, weather and road conditions, and traffic flow. When you're on the freeway, keep in mind that the left lanes are used for faster traffic, and the far-right lanes are for slower traffic. So, when you first get on the turnpike, make sure that you choose a lane and stay in it. Please also note that the far right lane is used for entering and exiting the highway, and the far left lane should be used for passing, so do not travel in these lanes unless you have no other choice. The best option should be to stay in the middle lane.
When Passing Other Vehicles....
If you find yourself in a situation when you need to pass other vehicles, make sure you pass them on the left. Never pass on the right of other vehicles as it can lead to accidents. Make sure that you are using your turn signal to let other drivers know that you will be changing lanes. Also, make sure that you use your mirrors and look over your shoulder to make sure it's safe to change lanes before you do so. In addition, make sure you never tailgate! Keep yourself at a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you as well as the cars to your left and right. Because you are traveling fast, you should have enough time to react to any hazards ahead of you and stop in time. Also, make sure that you provide enough space for cars to maneuver around you if needed.
Don't Park on the Side of the Highway
Never stop on the shoulders, pavement, or freeway ramps unless you are in an emergency. If your car brakes down on the turnpike, make sure you turn on your hazard lights and try to pull as far off the freeway as possible. Remember that your safety is the number one priority when you're on the freeway, make sure you don't do anything to jeopardize it!
Get a your Vehicle Ready for Highway Travel at Pearson Hyundai
Is your Hyundai in need of an oil change, tire rotation, or topping off of fluids! Even if you need a more extensive repair, our experts here at Pearson Hyundai will go over every inch of your vehicle to make sure it's running in peak condition and ready for highway travel. Even if you need a new vehicle, we have a large Hyundai inventory that you can check out at our dealership or on our website! You can make an appointment for service by heading down to our dealership or by filling out a form on our website. We look forward to seeing you and working on your vehicle here at Pearson Hyundai!
