Highway Driving (Chapter 6)

TL;DR

Match traffic speed on entry, pass decisively, and expand time gaps—higher speeds magnify stopping distance and hazard exposure.

Scope

Higher-speed driving strategies: merging, lane discipline, passing, speed & space management, hazard anticipation. Verify numeric speed advisories and any state-specific lane usage rules.

Learning Objectives

• Execute safe merges and exits with proper speed matching.
• Maintain lane discipline and appropriate passing etiquette.
• Adjust following distance for higher speeds.
• Anticipate hazards earlier via extended scanning.

1. Merging & Entry

• Accelerate in ramp lane to match main traffic speed (when safe).
• Signal early; check mirrors & shoulder.
• Select an appropriate gap—avoid forcing merges or stopping at ramp end unless necessary.

2. Lane Discipline

• Keep right except when passing (verify local rule enforcement).
• Avoid frequent lane changes; they increase conflict points.
• Use center and right lanes for steady travel; left lane primarily for passing.

3. Passing Strategy

• Signal, check blind spots, pass promptly without exceeding safe speed.
• Re-enter lane only when you see the vehicle's front in your mirror.
• Avoid passing in limited visibility or near ramps/exits.

4. Speed & Space Management

• Increase time gap as speed rises; higher speed = longer stopping distance.
• Maintain a cushion ahead and to sides for escape routes.
• Adjust speed smoothly; avoid abrupt braking in dense traffic.

5. Extended Scanning

Lane change steps reinforce deliberate, predictable movement.

• Look farther ahead than city driving (multiple seconds of travel distance).
• Identify slowdowns early (brake lights, congestion patterns).
• Monitor entry ramps for merging conflicts.

Quick Self-Check

• Why match speed when merging?
• When is a pass complete safely?
• Why expand following gap at highway speeds?

Proceed to quiz.

3 things to remember

• Merge by matching speed and selecting a clear gap; avoid stopping at ramp ends.
• Finish a pass when you see the passed vehicle’s front in your mirror before returning.
• Increase following distance as speed rises; smooth inputs prevent chain reactions.

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Quick Flashcards

Quick Review

How do you merge safely?

Match traffic speed, signal, check mirrors and shoulder, and choose a clear gap.

When is it safe to move back after passing?

When you can see the passed vehicle's front in your mirror.

Why increase following gap at higher speeds?

Stopping distance and exposure increase with speed.