Freeway Driving & Towing

Freeway Driving

Freeways have several lanes in each direction, and speeds are higher than on other roads. Traffic usually moves more efficiently because access is controlled, there are few sharp curves, no railroad crossings, and no traffic signals.

Drive at a steady speed so you have less need to change lanes. Weaving through traffic increases the risk of a collision and seldom saves time. Try to keep pace with traffic, but do not exceed the posted speed to stay with the flow. If you drive below the flow of traffic, use the right lane. Watch for traffic entering the freeway and adjust your speed for a safe merge.

Entering a Freeway

In most driving situations, you slow down or stop before entering a busy road, but entering a freeway is the opposite: use the on-ramp to speed up and merge with fast-moving traffic already on the road. You must yield to traffic already on the freeway. Use your mirrors and check your blind spots before merging. Keep moving if at all possible. Drivers behind you expect you to speed up, not slow down.

If you enter a freeway the wrong way, a DO NOT ENTER or WRONG WAY sign will warn you. Immediately pull off to the side of the ramp and stop. Turn on your hazard lights, then cautiously turn around or back off the ramp.

Ramp meters: These look like traffic signals but only operate at certain times. Only one vehicle can proceed each time the light turns green. When your light turns green, speed up to merge with freeway traffic. Do not stop at a dark ramp meter.

Leaving a Freeway

Turn on your signal well ahead of time. Maintain your speed until you are off the freeway, then begin slowing to the posted advisory speed once on the exit ramp. Most freeway exits are numbered to help you spot the exit you want. If you miss your exit, go to the next one. Never stop or back up on a freeway. The shoulder should only be used in an emergency.

Vehicle Trouble

If you have vehicle trouble on a freeway, move to the right shoulder or an emergency stopping area. Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers. If possible, it is safer to stay in or near your vehicle, on the side away from traffic. Walking along a freeway is dangerous.

Driving a Large Vehicle or Towing

Large vehicles or vehicles towing a trailer are longer, higher, and wider than other passenger vehicles. They take longer to accelerate and stop, and require more room to turn.

When driving a pickup with a camper, a motor home, or towing a trailer, check your speed and the traffic behind you often. If traffic is stacking up, pull off at the first safe turnout to let it pass. Use the right lane on multi-lane roads.