How to Park on the Highway?
4 Answers
On highways, the only places where you can park are service areas and emergency lanes. Choose service areas for normal parking and emergency lanes for urgent stops. Do not park on highway ramps, acceleration lanes, or deceleration lanes, as this not only disrupts normal traffic but also increases the risk of accidents. Here are some driving taboos on highways: 1. Not slowing down and turning on lights before entering a tunnel. 2. Changing two lanes consecutively. 3. Not signaling before overtaking. 4. Occupying the emergency lane without an emergency. 5. Reversing after missing an exit. 6. Not driving at the required speed. 7. Failing to check tires in advance.
I've been driving for decades and am particularly sensitive about stopping on the highway because vehicles move at such high speeds that sudden stops are extremely dangerous. If an accident occurs, it's likely to be severe. Highways generally prohibit arbitrary stops; you can only pull over on the right shoulder for emergencies, such as car breakdowns or sudden illnesses. When stopping, first turn on your hazard lights to alert vehicles behind you, then slowly pull over to the right, come to a complete stop, engage the handbrake, and turn off the engine. After exiting the vehicle, immediately place a warning triangle at least 50 meters away to alert others to steer clear. Stay put in a safe location and wait for assistance—it's best to call 122 for help. I recommend regular maintenance, such as checking tires and oil levels, to minimize breakdowns. If you must stop, prioritize driving to a service area or exiting the highway to handle the situation safely. The longer you stay on the highway, the higher the risk, especially at night.
I often enjoy self-driving trips and drive on highways frequently, so I pay extra attention to parking. In case of emergencies like smoke coming from the car or sensing something wrong, I quickly steer to the roadside without hesitation to avoid rear-end collisions. After stopping, I immediately turn on the hazard lights, place the warning triangle, and remember to wear a reflective vest while standing outside the guardrail in a safe area. Never linger inside the car—vehicles on highways move fast, and encountering a drunk driver could spell trouble. I usually contact my insurance company or use a roadside assistance app for help. Regular car maintenance, such as checking tire pressure and brake pads, can prevent major issues. Parking on the highway should be a last resort—it’s best to plan trips to avoid peak hours and use rest stops for safety and cost savings.
As an experienced driver, I know the rules for highway parking: it's illegal to stop arbitrarily, only allowed on the shoulder in case of vehicle failure or life-threatening emergencies, otherwise you'll face penalty points and fines. The parking procedure must be strictly followed: pull over to the right, turn on hazard lights, place a warning triangle, then wait at a safe spot for official assistance. Illegal parking can cause rear-end collisions with potentially fatal consequences, especially in curves or tunnel zones where risks are higher. I emphasize preventive maintenance - checking engine oil and electrical systems to avoid being stranded on highways. Remember, service areas are safer and more economical.
