How to Choose the Correct Lane as a Beginner Driver?
2 Answers
On a one-way single-lane road, there's no choice but to follow the traffic flow. For two-lane one-way national highways and urban roads, prioritize using the left lane. If it's a large road with three or more one-way lanes, it's advisable to stay in the middle lane—not only does this avoid criticism from faster drivers, but it also minimizes interference from pedestrians and bicycles. Additionally, the middle lane offers better visibility and easier lane changes. Here are some extended tips for beginners: Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. Whether on busy or lightly trafficked roads, always keep a proper following distance. This distance should be determined by your current speed: at around 40 km/h, maintain at least 30 meters; at 60 km/h, no less than 50 meters. In rainy or wet conditions, the distance should match the absolute value of your speed—for example, at 40 km/h, keep at least 40 meters apart, and so on.
When I first started learning to drive, I was also worried about going into the wrong lane, especially the first time I got on the main road—my palms were sweating. The trick is to start practicing on simple roads, like around the neighborhood, where the lanes are wider and straighter. First, learn to follow the white or yellow road markings—they’re your guide; stay centered when going straight. Always remember to signal for at least three seconds before changing lanes, and make sure there are no cars in your rearview or side mirrors before moving. Don’t rush your speed—beginners should aim for 40-50 km/h, as going too slow or too fast can easily cause drifting. I also found that in congested areas, it’s best to just follow the car in front and avoid frequent lane changes, which are high-risk. At night or in the rain, turn on your headlights to see the reflective road markings clearly, and slow down in the rain to prevent skidding. After a few days of short-distance driving, muscle memory kicks in, and now I stay steady in my lane with few mistakes. The key during the beginner phase is to stay calm, not fear trying, and you’ll get the hang of it gradually.
