Safe Driving on Highway Tips Every Driver Needs

Posted on: Jan 23, 2023 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Safe Driving on Highway Tips Every Driver Needs

Highways connect cities and towns, making long-distance travel faster and more efficient. However, with high speeds, heavy vehicles, and unpredictable traffic conditions, driving on these roads requires special attention and discipline. Following the right practices can make your journey safer and more enjoyable while helping you avoid accidents, penalties, and unnecessary stress.

In this blog, we’ll discuss eight practical driving tips on the highway to ensure a safe drive and the role of car insurance in ensuring your peace of mind.

8 Rules to Follow While Driving on the Highway

Whether you are an experienced driver or new to highways, these tips will help you maintain control and travel safely.

1. Maintain a constant speed

Unpredictability is a major reason behind accidents on the highway. So, when you’re cruising down the road, stick to a certain speed (below the speed limit). Constant acceleration and deceleration will result in an uncomfortable ride and will also put other vehicles around you at risk. Lower your speed at night and during wet road conditions to make it easier to take preventive action, if needed.

2. Keep your distance

At high speeds, stopping the car requires more aggressive braking and faster reaction time, while the consequences are also more severe. Keep a minimum of 3 seconds’ worth of distance from the car in front of you. Pick a stationary item on the road as a marker. Pass that marker three seconds after the car in front of you has passed it. In rainy conditions, you can increase that gap to at least 5 seconds.

3. Overtaking

Follow the car you intend to overtake at their speed. Find a straight line as the point of overtake, so that there’s clear visibility of incoming traffic. Switch to the overtaking lane with your indicator on. Switch to a lower gear and accelerate. Build a car’s length distance with the overtaken car and switch back to the driving lane.

4. Use indicators properly

Indicators are a simple yet essential communication tool on the road. Whenever you change lanes, overtake, or make a turn, using indicators informs other drivers of your intentions. This helps them adjust their speed or position accordingly, preventing confusion and accidents. Skipping indicators may cause sudden moves that catch others off guard and lead to collisions.

5. Avoid distractions

Using mobile phones, eating, or adjusting music while driving may seem harmless, but it can take your eyes off the road for crucial seconds. At highway speeds, even a short distraction can cover a large distance and cause accidents. Staying fully focused ensures you can respond quickly to sudden changes in traffic or road conditions.

6. Take breaks during long drives

Driving for long hours without rest can cause fatigue, which slows your reaction time and decision-making. To stay alert, take short breaks every two to three hours. Use this time to stretch, hydrate, and refresh your mind. If you feel drowsy, it is always better to rest before continuing rather than risk driving in a tired state.

7. Keep headlights on when needed

Visibility is key to safe driving. During night, fog, rain, or any low-light conditions, keeping your headlights and fog lamps on improves your ability to see clearly and also makes your vehicle more visible to others. Proper use of lights reduces the risk of accidents caused by poor visibility.

8. Be patient and courteous

Highways can often test your patience due to heavy traffic or slow-moving vehicles. Aggressive driving, honking unnecessarily, or cutting lanes only increases risks. Staying calm and respectful towards other motorists ensures smoother traffic flow. Courteous driving not only makes highways safer but also creates a better driving experience for everyone.

Car Insurance and Highway Safety: Why it Matters

While following safe driving rules and tips reduces risks, accidents may still occur due to unforeseen factors. This is where a valid car insurance policy plays a vital role. It offers the following:

• Financial protection:

Covers theft and damages to your vehicle and third-party liabilities.

• Medical expenses:

Helps cover treatment costs in case of injuries.

• Legal compliance:

Having at least third-party insurance is mandatory under Indian law.

• Peace of mind:

Ensures you can travel confidently knowing that support is available in emergencies.

Highway travel exposes you to more unpredictable situations, and having comprehensive coverage can protect against both financial loss and stress.

Conclusion

Highway journeys can be smooth and enjoyable if you stay alert and disciplined. By following safe practices while driving on highways, you can make your drives much safer. Equally important is securing your travel with a valid car insurance policy, which not only meets legal requirements but also provides essential financial protection in case of an accident.

Whether you are going on a short road trip or a long-distance drive, a combination of safe driving practices and proper insurance coverage will give you the confidence to enjoy the journey.

FAQs

1. Why is highway driving riskier than city driving?

Due to the higher speeds and heavy vehicle presence on highways, even minor errors can lead to severe mishaps.

2. How often should I take breaks during a long highway drive?

It is recommended to take breaks every 2-3 hours to avoid fatigue and maintain focus.

3. Can I use hazard lights while driving in heavy rain on highways?

No. Hazard lights should only be used when the vehicle is stationary. Instead, use fog lamps and headlights.

4. What should I do if my car breaks down on the highway?

If your car breaks down on the highway, move to the emergency lane, switch on hazard lights, place a reflective triangle behind your car, and call for roadside assistance.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

Why You Should Avoid Triple Riding on A Bike in India?

Top Helmet Brands in India for Safe Bike Riding

How to be a good biker? Follow these 7 simple tips!

Tips For Riding A Two-Wheeler Safely On Indian Roads!

10 Driving Guidelines That Can Save Your Life