I am a new driver, and this is going to sound weird, but on the highway, I am having trouble changing lanes to the right. I have no problems doing it to the left though. I look in the mirrors, and I see both headlights, but the cars seem so close and I am scared to get over. Im also a little of afraid of looking over because I am scared I will lose slight control of my car. Any suggestions??? Please help!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
2006-10-23 13:48:27 · 11 answers · asked by Mary Rashelle 2 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Commuting
Yes, and the doggone mirrors that they put on vehicles do not allow you to see the actual size of the car to the right. It's something you have to get used to. I always take a direct look (very quickly of course) to confirm that the lane is clear. You might try to add a good direct mirror on the passenger side to help out. You will eventually get used to it, but keep being cautious either way.
2006-10-23 13:56:05 · answer #1 · answered by Doug R 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Get some more road skills first if highway driving makes you nervous. The cars seem close because they ARE close. Plus, most passenger side mirrors distort the image slightly for a better field of view. Before changing lanes you should check your mirrors to get an idea of what is around you, then SIGNAL your intent to change lanes (some people then peek over the shoulder to SEE if the space is clear - option available to most passenger cars and "window" vans), then change lanes smoothly (within 5 to 7 car lengths, there is no need to squeeze between the lane marks). You may need to click your signal off as you take another look in your mirrors to get a new picture of the traffic and continue to drive forward.
Changing lanes "Ninja style", no signal, just moving where you want to be is rude, discourteous and and dangerous. A vehicle without signals is assumed to be traveling in a forward motion and there is a reasonable expectation that they should continue to do so. If you keep your eyes open, you will see these drivers, typically traveling 75+mph in 60mph traffic.
Please refrain from using the passing lane as a travel lane during peak road use hours. I believe the concept is known as driving "right". (Staying to the right - as opposed to "correctness".)
2006-10-23 14:29:43 · answer #2 · answered by Horndog 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
AS you get more experience, learn to judge the speed of the car in the other lane. Sometimes, they are going much FASTER than you are, and a lane change would be dangerous. You should do this with short glances, so you can also keep an eye on traffic in FRONT of you.
2006-10-24 01:52:47 · answer #3 · answered by Trump 2020 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I first check my rear view mirror, then my side mirrors, and blind spot. When changing lanes I was taught that in the daytime if you can see most of the car behind you, you have enough clearance to change lanes. At nite time I was taught that if you can see both of the rear cars headlights in your mirror, you have enough clearance to change lanes. I've been driving for 12 years, and highway driving still makes me a tad nervous.
2006-10-23 17:56:17 · answer #4 · answered by twiigss 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Pain is a strange thing. Burning a finger or stubbing a toe can hurt all night, but when I shattered my wrist into 20 pieces (bones sticking out), I didn't feel anything at all. I guess I was just into "operation mode," and I realized that pain would be a disability in getting necessary medical help. I do not think the worst physical pain can come close to the mental anguish many of us have suffered. Merry Christmas, and all the best to you and your loved ones. And be careful!
2016-05-22 02:56:03 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
They do sell wide angle "parabolic" rear-view mirrors that slip over your existing rear view mirror. It extends your field of view behind you so you can see better. Auto parts stores should carry them otherwise try the 'net, or even E-bay. A friend of mine has one and they work very well. Only downside is if you have one of those electronic auto-dimming mirrors or the ones that have the compass & temp built into them, then they become useless. :)
2006-10-23 16:58:47 · answer #6 · answered by seamless1 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Unless you are driving a vehicle with no windows. you are allowed to physically turn and look as many times as you need b4 you make your move ,so long as you keep your vehicle within the lines.
2006-10-25 08:41:12 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
experience!stay off the highway if possible at times of heavy traffic.remember,,you didn't learn how to walk in a day!
2006-10-23 18:34:32 · answer #8 · answered by jgmafb 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You'll get used to it. It's tricky at first. If you have a trusted passenger, you could have them confirm when it's clear to go. After a while you'll be switchin' lanes like my once-scard wife.
2006-10-23 14:02:03 · answer #9 · answered by Wil T 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Yes, Go back to school. (im not saying it in a mean way)
2006-10-23 13:57:57 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋