Safer Highway Driving - Tips for Teens

Safe Highway Driving Teen
Your teenager feels ready to take the car out on the highway. However, this new experience is very different from riding around your neighborhood. That’s why we’re sharing seven practical tips for highway driving for new drivers.
If you and your teenager follow these tips, we’re certain their first experience will be a safe one and get them on the right path to become a better driver:

Consider the right time & the perfect place

It’s only natural to feel nervous the first time a new driver takes a car out on the highway. Consider choosing a route that is less busy before you venture out.
It’s also important to check the weather conditions before getting on the highway as driving on a rainy day could put a damper on this first experience. Postpone your highway drive if the weather forecast doesn't look promising and wait for a sunny day.

Highway lanes & precautionary measures

This is one of the most important tips for driving on the highway. Not only does this make your teen a better driver, but it also ensures the safety of everyone on the road. Always maintain enough distance between you and the car in front of you to avoid an accident if they suddenly hit the breaks.
More and more cars have backup cameras, but that doesn't mean you should rely solely on the screen when reversing. Be sure to check your rearview and side mirrors before backing out of the driveway. Not only do you need to have a clear view of your surroundings while driving, but having clean mirrors also helps you to safely switch lanes or give way to another vehicle coming from behind.

Use the right lane

This tip is a must for young drivers who are taking their first drive on the highway. Always remember that the left lane is for passing only.
You’re bound to encounter drivers traveling faster than you and your teenage driver. Therefore, encourage them to start off in the right lane. This helps maintain the speed of your car and also saves the trouble of having to switch lanes over and over again if another car is overtaking your vehicle.

Don’t forget the turn signals

Help your new driver form good habits. Insist that they always signal when switching lanes, even when they think no other cars are around. Point out that things can change very quickly at highway speeds and not signaling is a dangerous practice that can lead to a crash.

Keep your eyes looking both ways

It’s a common habit for new drivers to keep looking forward. It may seem difficult to check behind using a rearview mirror, but it becomes second nature after some practice.
Highways are unpredictable. That’s why it’s always better to use the rearview mirror as your eyes-in-the-back-of-your-head so you know what’s in front of you while you remain aware of oncoming vehicles.

Don’t let aggressive drivers get inside your head

You’re bound to find people driving aggressively or dangerously while driving on the highway. Instead of taking it as a challenge and doing the same, respect the laws and speed limits at all times.
Driving faster won’t necessarily get you to your destination quicker. It’s not a competition and it’s always important to keep a cool head on the road.

Maintain your focus

Last in our list of tips for teens driving on the highway is some practical advice on keeping focused. There may be cases where new drivers might get distracted, and everyone gets sleepy sometimes.
If you want to make sure that your new driver's run on the highway is a safe one, he or she needs to be as focused as possible. Everything from loud music to rowdy friends can temp young drivers' attention away from the road.
We hope you and your new motorist found these tips useful. It’s also important to have your auto insurance up-to-date to ensure a safe and pleasant driving experience.
Infinity Insurance provides plans that fit your budget and needs. Call one of our friendly agents today at 1-800-INFINITY or visit our website to receive a free quote within minutes.

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