Freeway driving
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Introduction to Freeways
A freeway (or expressway) is a high-speed, multi-lane road with separated traffic and controlled ramps for entering/exiting.
Freeways do not allow pedestrians or bicycles, and have no intersections, making them safer for experienced drivers despite higher speeds.
New drivers should gain experience at lower speeds before attempting freeway driving; G1 drivers may only drive on freeways with a licensed driving instructor.
Entering a Freeway
Most freeway entrances have two parts: an entrance ramp and an acceleration lane.
While on the entrance ramp, check mirrors and blind spots to see where you can merge.
Use the acceleration lane to match the speed of freeway traffic, signal, and merge smoothly.
If an entrance ramp is on the left, you enter the fastest lane first—accelerate quickly to match the speed of that lane.
Drivers already on the freeway should move over if it is safe, leaving room for merging vehicles.
Driving along a Freeway
Maintain a steady speed and keep a lookout far ahead (15–20 seconds) to anticipate road conditions.
Stay in the right lane unless you need to pass; use the left lane for passing slower vehicles.
Continuously scan your surroundings, including mirrors, to stay aware of vehicles around you.
Avoid cutting in front of larger vehicles; leave ample space since they block your view more than smaller cars.
On multi-lane freeways, large trucks may be restricted from using the far-left lane; get used to driving in the right lane.
Leaving a Freeway
Freeway exits typically have three parts: a deceleration lane, an exit ramp, and an intersection (often with a traffic light or sign).
Signal before moving into the deceleration lane, but do not slow down until you enter it.
Gradually reduce speed in the deceleration lane to match the posted exit-ramp speed.
Be mindful of speed adaptation (velocitization)—freeway speeds can make it harder to accurately sense your slower speed.
If you miss your exit, never stop or reverse on the freeway; take the next exit instead.
High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes
HOV lanes are reserved for vehicles with at least two occupants (driver plus one passenger).
They encourage carpooling and improve traffic flow by moving more people in fewer vehicles.
It is illegal and unsafe to cross the striped buffer zone separating the HOV lane from general traffic lanes.
Certain vehicles (e.g., buses, emergency vehicles) are exempt; single-occupant 'Green' plate vehicles are also allowed.
If you use HOV lanes improperly, you can be ticketed and must re-enter the general lanes at the next entry/exit zone.