What to Pay Attention to When Driving on the Highway for the First Time?
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For first-time drivers on the highway, it's important not to drive too fast. Maintaining a speed of around 70-80 mph is sufficient, and it's best to avoid overtaking. When passing through toll booths or checkpoints, there will be signs indicating the driving requirements, such as speed limits. On the highway, the leftmost lane is the overtaking lane, with speeds typically ranging from 100 to 120 km/h. The middle lane is the travel lane, with speeds around 60 to 100 km/h. The right lane is the emergency stopping lane, where driving is prohibited, and violators may be fined 200 yuan. When passing through checkpoints, signs will inform you of the driving requirements, such as speed limits. There are many road signs to pay attention to, including those indicating road conditions, exits, and speed limits. If you are a new driver, it's crucial to follow traffic laws. First-time drivers must display a "novice driver" sign (commonly known as the "newbie sticker") on the rear of the vehicle. This alerts other drivers to be cautious and may lead to more leniency toward you. However, don't push your luck—driving recklessly could still provoke criticism. Additionally, note that the first year after obtaining your driver's license is considered the probationary period. During this time, if you drive on the highway, you must be accompanied by a driver who has held a valid license for the same or a higher vehicle category for at least three years. This is particularly important because, in case of an accident, insurance claims may be affected.
Before my first highway drive, I specifically consulted several experienced drivers and summarized a few key points: You must check the car's condition in advance—tire pressure, lights, brake fluid, these can't be neglected. On the highway, control your speed—don't exceed 120 km/h but also avoid going below 80 km/h, especially don't hog the overtaking lane for long periods. When changing lanes, check the rearview mirror first, then quickly glance at the blind spot, signal, and confirm it's safe before steering. Maintain at least a 100-meter distance from the car ahead, and be ready to brake as soon as you see its brake lights. New drivers shouldn't push themselves too hard—take a break at a service area every two hours. Also, set up your phone navigation in advance to avoid looking down while driving on the highway.
