What should a novice pay attention to when driving on the highway for the first time?
3 Answers
Novices should pay attention to the following when driving on the highway for the first time: 1. Maintain a safe distance: Keeping a proper distance is the most important factor for driving safety. Due to lack of driving experience, novice drivers often misjudge the distance. If you follow too closely, you won't have enough time to brake in case of an emergency. 2. Speed limits: The minimum speed on the highway should not be less than 60 km/h, and the maximum speed should not exceed 120 km/h. 3. Avoid sudden steering: Always keep a firm grip on the steering wheel when driving at high speeds. When changing lanes or overtaking, avoid making sharp turns to prevent the car from drifting due to high speed. When braking, apply the brakes gradually instead of slamming them to prevent the car from veering off course.
As a long-term driver, I believe that the most important thing for beginners to focus on when driving on the highway for the first time is safety details. The speed on the highway can be nerve-wracking for first-timers, so it's essential to get used to maintaining a steady speed: keep it between 100-120 km/h—not too slow to block traffic, nor too fast to risk a ticket. Maintaining a safe distance is crucial; I recommend beginners leave at least 150 meters of space between their car and the vehicles ahead and behind, giving them enough time to react in case of emergencies. Stay focused on the road—avoid using your phone or fiddling with the radio, as distractions can lead to accidents. Also, pay attention to light signals: use your turn signals in advance when changing lanes or overtaking to communicate your intentions to others. Prepare to change lanes at least 1 kilometer before exiting the highway to avoid sudden braking, which can disrupt traffic flow. Beginners should try to familiarize themselves with the route beforehand or use GPS navigation to reduce anxiety and ensure a smooth journey. Additionally, avoid driving while fatigued—get enough rest, start your trip well-rested, and arrive home safely.
I pay close attention to vehicle maintenance and always thoroughly inspect my car before its first highway trip. Novice drivers can easily be affected by the fast pace on highways, but the car itself must be reliable: adjust tire pressure to the standard value—too low and it risks a blowout, too high and it increases fuel consumption; ensure engine oil and brake fluid levels are above the minimum marks, as running low on oil during long drives can cause serious damage; fully functional lights are especially crucial—headlights and turn signals must work properly, or driving at night on the highway can become dangerously unclear. I also carry emergency tools like reflective warning triangles and a jack to set up alerts if issues arise. Fill up the fuel tank to avoid the hassle of running low and triggering the fuel warning light mid-journey. Beginners often forget to test windshield wipers—sudden rain on the highway with poor visibility can cause panic. Finally, test the brakes on a short trip before departure to ensure they function correctly. Though these preparations may seem minor, they are essential for a safe arrival at your destination.