Getting Used to the Motorway as a New Driver

For many new drivers, one of the most daunting things that you can do when you have passed your driving test is to drive on your own on the motorway. These fast paced roads were built throughout the 1950s, 60s and 70s in the UK, as more and more people owned cars, and city centre roads became busier, a new way was needed to get people from A to B fast.

Nowadays the motorways are often busy and this can be intimidating for a new driver. Add into this the need to look out for all of the signs and markings on a motorway, from the vehicle chevron kits like this www.vehiclechevrons.com/ on certain vehicles to navigating the areas of smart motorways and you can see why it can be anxiety inducing for a new driver to gain the confidence to get onto the motorway for the first time.

However, statistically, the motorway is the safest type of road in the UK. Despite the fast speeds, there are fewer accidents on motorways overall, and you are far more likely to have a crash on a winding country lane or in the town than when you are travelling on the motorway. As long as you pay attention, and you are aware of the rules of motorway driving you have much more chance of making it down the motorway with no problems than having an accident.

When you first enter the motorway, as long as the traffic is moving and there is not a hold up, it will be travelling at 70 miles per hour. Merge safely, matching your speed to the traffic on the motorway and check your mirrors as you join, looking for a clear gap.

Drive in the left-hand lane at all times, unless you are overtaking a slower vehicle in front such as a lorry or a car pulling a caravan for example, as these tend to be limited to 60 miles per hour.

You should also make sure that you are keeping a good distance from the vehicle in front. This is particularly important if the weather is bad, and the road surface is slippery, or visibility is poor.

Make sure that you take a break at a service station if you feel tired or are losing concentration.

It is a good idea to practice using the motorway at quieter times of the day, or at night to help you build your confidence.