Tips for Driving on the Highway

By Kevin Quinn and the Mercury Team

Highway driving is a part of everyday life for many of us, whether you’re commuting to work, heading out on a road trip, or just running errands across town. But unlike local streets, highways usually come with higher speeds, heavier traffic, and less room for error. That’s why safety should always be your top priority when you hit the open road.

In this post, we’ll cover essential highway driving tips and touch on how safe driving habits can help reduce your risk of accidents and may even lead to lower car insurance costs.

Driving on the Highway: The Basics

Before you hit the highway, make sure your car is up to the task. Check your tire pressure, oil level, and other essential fluids like coolant and windshield washer fluid. If anything looks off, take care of it before you drive. Highway speeds can magnify small issues into big problems. Following basic automotive maintenance tips helps prevent mechanical failures and can minimize the risk of insurance-related incidents.

It’s also a good idea to take a moment to review your auto insurance policy. Do you have the coverage you need if something unexpected happens on the road? Knowing you’re properly insured can give you peace of mind and help you handle different types of auto accidents, from fender benders to more serious collisions.

Highway Driving Tips

Staying safe on the highway means being consistent, alert, and prepared. Here are a few key tips to help make every trip smoother and safer.

Lane Discipline and Speed Control

• Keep a steady speed: It makes your driving more predictable and keeps traffic flowing smoothly.
• Follow posted speed limits: They’re set for your safety and designed to reflect current road conditions and traffic patterns.
• Avoid frequent lane changes: Jumping between lanes increases risk and tension.
• Use your turn signal early: If you do need to change lanes, use your turn signal early to give other drivers plenty of notice.

Defensive Driving

• Leave space between you and the car ahead: A three-second gap is a good rule of thumb. Increase the following distance in inclement weather.
• Stay alert: Keep your eyes moving and watch for brake lights, merging cars, or debris.
• Expect the unexpected: Being mentally prepared helps you stay calm and drive defensively.

Merging and Exiting

• Match the speed of traffic when merging: Use the on-ramp to blend in safely.
• Don’t slow down too much: It can confuse other drivers and make merging more difficult.
• Plan exits in advance: Signal early, check your mirrors and blind spots, and ease into the exit lane.

How to Drive on a Highway Efficiently

When it comes to driving on the highway, a few simple habits can help you save fuel, reduce wear and tear, and even lower your overall driving costs. Here’s how:

Maintain a Steady Speed

Keeping a consistent speed helps your car use fuel more efficiently and reduces wear on your engine. When traffic allows, using cruise control is a great way to avoid unnecessary speed fluctuations and conserve gas during longer trips.

Plan Ahead

It also helps to plan your route ahead of time. Knowing your exits and any major interchanges in advance means you won’t have to make quick lane changes or last-minute decisions. That kind of preparedness leads to smoother, safer driving overall.

Fuel and Cost Savings

Smooth driving reduces the strain on your engine, brakes, and tires. Over time, this can mean fewer repairs, better gas mileage, and even fewer car insurance claims, especially if you’re avoiding hard stops or erratic driving.

How Do I Overcome Driving Anxiety on the Highway?

If the thought of highway driving makes you nervous, you’re definitely not alone. Luckily, a few simple strategies can help you build confidence and feel more in control behind the wheel.

Start Small

Begin by driving on the highway during quieter times, like mid-morning or early afternoon on weekdays. Choose shorter routes with less traffic so you can ease into the experience without feeling overwhelmed. The more you practice, the more natural it will start to feel.

Stay Focused and Calm

Limit distractions by keeping your phone out of reach and turning down loud music or chatter. If you feel anxious, try deep breathing or calming techniques before and during your drive.

Know Your Coverage

Sometimes, just knowing you’re covered can ease stress. Make sure your auto insurance policy gives you the protection you need by reviewing all the different types of car insurance coverage.

What Is Most Important When Driving on a Highway?

Safety should always come first. That means sticking to the speed limit, staying in your lane, and keeping your full attention on the road. Avoid distractions, give yourself plenty of space from other vehicles, and always use your signals.

It’s also smart to be prepared for the unexpected. Keep an emergency kit in your car, like a flashlight, first-aid kit, jumper cables, and water. You never know when a flat tire or sudden weather change might leave you needing a little extra help.

And don’t forget about your insurance coverage. “Insurance might not be the first thing you think about when you get on the highway, but it really matters. If something goes wrong out there—a flat tire, an accident, anything—you want to know you’re covered. It just takes one less worry off your plate so you can focus on driving safely.”

- Kevin Quinn, VP of Claims

Conclusion

Whenever you get onto the highway, remember to stick to safe speeds, stay alert, drive defensively, and keep up with regular maintenance to avoid unnecessary risks on the road. It’s also a good idea to review your current auto insurance policy, especially if you’re spending more time on the highway.

Looking for cheap car insurance that doesn’t cut corners on coverage? Reach out to Mercury Insurance and see how much you could save.

Contact us today for a fast, free quote!