10 Highway Driving Tips Every Beginner in India Should Know

Indian highways might seem like a totally different experience of driving than in a city. The unpredictable conditions, the high speed of the open roads and the heavy trucks require an alternative level of awareness and skills. In case you are intending to take your first highway journey, then the following are 10 tips that you should consider to allow you to drive safely and with confidence.

1. Plan Your Route Before You Start

Always leave highways without any idea of where to go. To verify the distance, the time taken, the toll booths, the fuel stations and the rest areas along the way, use Google Maps or other such applications. Get offline maps so that you do not lose your mobile network in far-off stretches. Being aware of what you would have to do ahead would assist you in making wiser judgements on the road.

2. Check Your Car Thoroughly Before Leaving

A simple road test can help you to avoid numerous troubles on the highway. When you are about to drive away, have a look:

• Tyre pressure is right, and the spare tyre is in good condition.
• The engine oil, brake fluid and coolant levels are in good condition.
• Brake lights, indicators and headlights are operating.
• Wipers are operational.
• The tank is full or at least has enough fuel up to the next stretch.

When renting a car, ensure that you check it first and report all the existing damage.

3. Maintain a Safe Speed

The usual speed limit of cars on the Indian national highways is 100 km/h, but this varies according to state and type of road. As a novice, it is better not to drive at the top speed. A comfortable speed of 80–90 km/h provides you with sufficient time to respond to any sudden events such as animals crossing, potholes or a slow-moving vehicle that could pop up in the middle of the road.

Speed kills, but it is also a thrill. This is particularly so on the Indian highways, where road conditions may experience varying changes without any notice.

4. Maintain an Adequate Following Distance

When driving too close to the vehicle in front, it is one of the biggest errors that beginners commit. On the highways, there is a lot of speed, and you must have a good space to brake. One of the general rules is to leave at least 3 seconds between your car and that of the other vehicle. When it is raining or foggy, make it 5-6 seconds. This is an easy practice that can be used to avoid rear-end accidents.

5. Use Lanes Properly

Highways in India are becoming relatively better organised, though there are still a number of road users who lack lane discipline. You should, as a responsible driver:

• Unless you are passing, drive in the left lane.
• Only pass on the right lane and go back to the left.
• Always avoid driving in between two lanes.
• Do not drive back and forth on lanes.

Effective use of lanes minimises the chances of accidents and keeps the traffic moving in good flow.

6. Be Extra Careful with Trucks and Buses

Heavy automobiles such as trucks, tankers and buses do not behave as cars do. They are slower to halt; they possess huge blind spots and frequently load huge loads. When driving near them:

• Do not loiter in their blind places (by their side or a little behind them).
• Closely surpass them, and without drag.
• Allow them more room during turning or passing over.
• Wait when a truck is not moving very fast on a slope.

The consideration of heavy vehicles will get you out of trouble.

7. Avoid Night Driving If You Are a Beginner

The issue of driving at night on the Indian highways is much riskier. Night driving is hazardous because of poor lighting, overspeeding traffic, intoxicated motorists, fogged-down trucks parked on the road, and wandering animals, among other things that even the experienced drivers cannot avoid. In case it is your first trip on the highway, avoid making a journey that you expect to cover mostly at night. In case you have to drive during the night, slow down and remain more vigilant.

8. Do Not Drive When Tired

Highway accidents in India are caused by fatigue among the top reasons. Long commutes are also a psychological drain, although not necessarily physically exhausting. As a rule:

• Rest every 2 hours or 150–200 km, whichever is earlier.
• Pull over at the dhaba, petrol pump or rest place to stretch and freshen up.
• You should never drive when you are sleepy. It is preferable to take a break and have a rest rather than to work hard.
• One should not drive immediately after a heavy meal because this may make one drowsy.

9. Know What to Do in Case of an Emergency

Accidents and breakdowns may occur to anyone. Be prepared:

• Store the number of the highway helpline (National Highway helpline: 1033).
• Bring a first-aid kit and a reflective triangle or flares.
• Should there happen to be a breakdown in your car, pull over to the shoulder of the road and turn on hazard lights.
• In case of an accident, dial 112 (emergency) and help the injured unless there is any danger in doing so.
• Report to your insurance company and make photos of the situation.

10. Stay Off Your Phone While Driving

In India, it is unlawful to use a phone while driving; it is outrageously unsafe at 50 miles per hour. A 2-second distraction at 80 km/h is enough to have your car travel more than 44 metres without your complete attention. In case you have to drive somewhere, you can put your phone on a holder and choose the route before taking off. For calls, pull over safely. The life of a message or call is not worth your life.

Final Thoughts

It is actually a fun experience to drive on highways in India after gaining confidence and good practices. It is essential to be a great observer, be patient, and not risk anything without any need. These practices will ensure your safety along with that of your passengers whether you are going to the hills, taking a road trip to a new city or even just exploring the countryside.

In case you need to be on the highway without the obligation of owning a motor vehicle, Rentrip provides self-drive car rentals in India. You have a variety of properly maintained vehicles that can travel long distances on the highway, and you have the freedom to drive on your own terms.

Drive safe and drive smart.