What should I pay attention to when driving on the highway for the first time?
2 Answers
When driving on the highway, pay attention to the following points: 1. Overtaking: Drive in the appropriate lane according to road signs. If you need to overtake, always signal in advance, check the rearview mirror, and then merge into the overtaking lane. 2. Watch for signs: Since highway speeds are high, road signs pass by almost instantly, so you must pay close attention to them or your navigation. If you miss a highway exit, don’t panic or attempt to brake suddenly or make a U-turn. Instead, continue driving at the same speed and look for the next exit to get back on track. 3. Fatigue driving: If you feel drowsy, be sure to rest at a service area. Never drive while fatigued, as the consequences can be severe. 4. Maintain distance: New drivers with limited experience may misjudge situations easily. It’s important to control your speed and keep a safe distance from the car ahead. If you follow too closely, you may not have enough time to brake if the car in front suddenly stops. 5. Always grip the steering wheel firmly at high speeds: When changing lanes or overtaking, avoid turning the wheel too sharply to prevent the car from drifting due to high speed. When braking, it’s best to brake in several stages rather than slamming on the brakes, to prevent the car from veering off course.
First time on the highway, I genuinely believe preparation should start from the basics. Before setting off, it's essential to check the car: tire pressure should be sufficient, fuel level shouldn't be too low, all lights must be working, and critical components like brakes and wipers should be in good condition. Once on the highway, maintain your speed within the limit—beginners should neither speed nor drive too slowly. I recommend following the navigation. Keeping a safe distance is crucial; I usually leave at least a three-second gap from the car ahead, which means maintaining at least 100 meters when driving at 100 km/h. When changing lanes, always use your turn signal first, check the mirrors to ensure it's safe, and then proceed, avoiding sudden turns. Additionally, long drives can be tiring, so take a break at a service area every two hours or so to eat and hydrate. In emergencies like a flat tire or breakdown, turn on your hazard lights, pull over to the shoulder, and ideally, place a warning triangle. These are the points I always emphasize to make the first experience more reassuring.
