Driving on the highway is its own fun. As the car speeds past 80 as soon as it gets out of the city traffic, the ride becomes pleasant. But, on open highways long trucks, buses and sometimes vehicles coming from the wrong direction can be a big hazard. Even a little carelessness can prove costly. According to the Road Ministry report, most of the major accidents in the country occur only on the National Highway. Always keep these things in mind if you want to complete your journey safely and stress-free.
Check the car before traveling
Check your car’s tire pressure, brakes, wipers and steps before leaving home. Keep coolant and water levels correct. Apart from this keep all the necessary documents of the vehicle (RC, License, Insurance and PUC) with you.
Follow lane rules strictly
Always drive in your designated lane on the highway. The left lane is for normal speed and the right lane is for overtaking only. Avoid sudden lane changes. If the vehicle in front does not yield, use the horn or headlight dipper lightly.
Keep a safe distance
Always maintain a distance of at least 3 seconds from the vehicle in front. If it is night time or it is raining, increase this distance to 4 to 5 seconds, so that sudden braking does not cause any collision.
Keep pace with the weather
The speed limit posted on the road is for clear weather. During rain, fog or night, reduce vehicle speed by 15-20 kmph and turn on fog lights in fog.
Keep a safe distance from large vehicles
Trucks and buses have large blind spots (ie areas where they cannot see the vehicle). When overtaking them, always make your presence felt by honking or honking.
Use the dipper properly at night
Turn on the lights before it gets dark. Always use low beam (dipper) when approaching a vehicle from the front so that the bright light does not hit the driver’s eyes from the front.
Plan petrol and rest in advance
Keep an eye out for petrol pumps and dhabas before embarking on long journeys, as shops are sometimes found closed at night on deserted roads.
What to do if the car breaks down?
If the vehicle ever breaks down while traveling, take it off the road completely and park it on the side (shoulder lane). Switch on all four indicators (hazard lights) and place the reflective triangle 50 meters behind the vehicle. Remove all passengers from the vehicle and park in a safe place off the road.
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