Highway Driving Tips
Get your vehicle ready for highway driving at Pearson Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram
There are very few of us out there who want to admit that we are distracted drivers. However, we have all texted, talked, and even eaten when we are behind the wheel. Unfortunately, it doesn't take much for our driving to be distracted, and according to some studies, our attention spans can be shorter than that of a goldfish. Combining a short attention span with distracted driving is a recipe for disaster, so we here at Pearson Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram have compiled some tips that you can use so that you're not distracted when you're behind the wheel of your Jeep, Dodge, or Ram vehicle!
Put down your cell phone
We know that it is tempting to reach for your cell phone when you hear the ping, but it is hazardous and often illegal to be on your phone while driving down the interstate. Sending or reading texts while flying 55 mph down the turnpike for five seconds at a time is equivalent to driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed. If you have an iPhone, you can use the Do Not Disturb While Driving feature that will send contacts an automated message so you can stay focused on the road. Try not to reach for your cell phone while driving to keep yourself, riders, and other drivers safe. Instead, wait until you are pulled over or reach your destination to return texts.
Pass in the left lane
Try to be considerate of other drivers by driving in the right lane and then using the left lane for passing. Certain states have laws that will fine or give tickets to drivers who travel in the left lane without intending to pass other vehicles. If you stay in the left lane and other vehicles want to get by you, they might make a dangerous move and try to pass you on the right. Causing traffic to build up behind you can also be a hazard if you don't pass a driver. Be considerate and allow other drivers to pass you on the left.
Get up to speed quick
When you first get onto the interstate, use the acceleration ramp to get up to speed as quickly as possible. It helps prevent other drivers from slamming on their brakes or changing lanes to allow you on the interstate. When you get up to speed, you can avoid unnecessary traffic movement and even prevent accidents from other drivers braking abruptly. You don't have to push the pedal down, but use the acceleration lane to help you merge more safely.
Don't drive too close to other vehicles
Do your best not to drive too close to the vehicle in front of you while on the highway. While you might be tempted to pressure someone to drive a little faster, you might be putting the safety of yourself and others at risk. If the person traveling in front of you suddenly slams on their brakes, you might not have time to react and will end up rear-ending them. Leave extra room, especially when traveling on the highway between you and the next vehicle, so that other drivers can stay safe. As a general rule, consider the type of vehicle ahead of you and leave yourself enough room, so you have three or more seconds to stop.
Let things go
Road rage is a real issue, especially when you're on the turnpike. It's always better to overlook other drivers' mistakes or negligent behavior and let it go rather than react to it. Many accidents happen on the interstate caused by aggressive driving, and while it might not be easy to ignore another driver's mistakes, it's certainly a necessity. Rather than getting upset and driving aggressively after another driver makes a mistake, please take a deep breath, and let it go!
Make sure your vehicle is highway ready at Pearson Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram
Before you set foot on the highway, you want to ensure that your vehicle is safe enough for highway travel. Here at Pearson Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, we specialize in everything from providing you with an oil change to a complete transmission repair. We have highly trained technicians on staff who will jump at the chance to work on your vehicle! You can make an appointment at our dealership or on our website. Don't delay in getting your oil changed or your fluids replenished! Head down to Pearson Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram today!