Smooth roads, top speed and a sense of freedom make the exuberance of driving on a highway undeniable. However, to avail of the freedom, drivers are required to cater to some safety precautions whether you are a professional or a beginner. Driving on the highway is completely different from manoeuvring around the city, obligating drivers to be more cautious. By implementing some simple precautionary measures, drivers can avoid any unlikely situation during the journey.
For your convenience, here we have mentioned some highway driving safety tips that can help you during the journey.
Tips for Driving on the Highway Safely
While driving on the major highways in the UAE, drivers are required to follow certain rules and regulations. Amidst these regulations, following safety regulations secures a paramount position.
The tips mentioned below will elaborate further on how to drive on the highway safely.
Wear Seatbelts
Wearing seatbelts while driving is necessary whether you are in the city or on a highway. Failure to do so is an offence that can cost drivers up to a fine of AED 400 and 4 black points. That said, before starting the journey, check the working conditions of seatbelts. Moreover, ensure that every passenger is wearing a seatbelt during the journey, regardless of the journey time.
Adhere to Speed Limits
Road speed limits in the UAE vary from road to road and type of vehicle. The general speed limit is between 60 km/h to 120 km/h for cars on the highway. Adhering to this speed limit is not only essential to avoid traffic fines but also to ensure the safety of others on the road.
Start from the Right Lane
Always start your highway journey from the right lane, also known as the merger lane. It is a slow traffic lane, allowing drivers to adjust to the traffic flow. Also, try to remain in your lane and use indicators while overtaking vehicles. Avail of the lane mitigation system, also known as road departure mitigation system if present. Gradually, switch to the middle lane and then to the fast lane. Make sure to adhere to the rules of driving in the fast lane.
Be Cautious While Switching Lane
Switching lanes is one of the major causes of accidents on the highways. Therefore, it is recommended to use safety features like blind spot monitoring systems in cars. If not, then follow these steps to switch lanes manually.
Step 1: Adjust the Rearview Mirror
Adjust your rearview mirror in a way that provides an unobstructed view of the vehicles behind your car. Here is how to adjust the rearview mirror for maximum visibility.
Step 2: Set Side Mirrors
Adjust the right and left side mirrors. Lean your head towards the right side and open the side mirror until your car’s body disappears. Now, lean your head towards the centre console and repeat the same process for the left side mirror.
Step 3: Observe the Traffic Flow
Carefully observe the vehicles marching from behind. Once no vehicles are in the mirror, switch on the turn signals, wait for a few seconds, and gradually switch lanes.
Maintain a Safe Distance
Tailgating is a serious threat, especially while driving on the highways. Since the speed limit is high, vehicles are more prone to the domino effect, even if one vehicle stops or slows down. The rule of thumb for safe distance is to maintain a gap of at least 3 seconds or 264 feet.
For detailed information, read through our safe distance following guide.
Stay Alert
Fatigue and distractions are normal while driving on the long-stretched highways. However, it is not recommended to drive in this condition. Rest for at least 8 hours before hitting the highways. Moreover, take short breaks after every 90 minutes, do some stretching, walk, eat and use the restroom during the break. Furthermore, set up and use cruise control frequently to avoid fatigue.
To avoid distracted driving, set your infotainment system and other entertainment options that will be required on the way. It is recommended to sync the phone with the infotainment system to avoid any kind of distraction. You can also use car Bluetooth to ensure road safety.
Avoid Rush Hours
Avoiding rush hours tops the list of tips for driving on the highway for the first time. Highways in the UAE can get crowded during rush hours, especially the Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road (E311). That said, it gets difficult to drive in this condition, and also it increases the journey time.
Check Weather Reports
Prior to planning your road trip, it is necessary to check for the weather forecast. Although the weather in the UAE is generally safe for driving, rain and dust storms can trouble drivers. For other road trip planning tips and tricks, read through our blog on how to get ready for a road trip.
Be Aware of Motorcycles
Motorcycles are not an uncommon sight in the UAE, whether it is in the city or on the highways. Although motorcyclists follow strict rules and regulations, maintaining a safe distance from them is necessary. Also, there are certain motorcycle hand signals that you should know; these signals are used for communicating with other vehicles on the road.
These are all the highway driving safety tips that you must follow for a hassle-free journey. Driving on highways can become more convenient with the use of modern car safety features. These features are advanced and assist in avoiding accidents while being on the road. If you are also interested in availing yourself of these features, browse through these used cars for sale in the UAE and buy a car equipped with advanced features.
Besides you can also use defensive driving techniques to avoid accidents.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s auto blog for more information on tyre pressure for highway driving.
Related Posts
