DRIVING THE FREEWAYS ALABAMA DRIVER MANUAL CHAPTER 8

Characteristics of Freeways Freeways –are multi-lane, controlled access, divided highways that permit you to drive a long distance without interruption, with minimum fatigue and maximum safety. Also known as interstate highways, controlled-access highways, turnpikes, toll roads, and beltways. There are no stops signs are cross traffic on Freeways. If you know how to use them properly you can get where you’re going sooner and have a better chance to arrive safely.

Characteristics of Freeways 1. It requires that you keep up with the traffic and stay alert 2. Slower moving vehicle, those traveling at less than the normal speed of traffic at that time, must keep to the right. 3. Cutting from one lane to another is a dangerous practice. Choose a lane in which traffic is flowing and stay in it. If you must change lanes to pass or exit the freeway, check the traffic carefully and signal well in advance.

Characteristics of Freeways There is a median or barrier between opposing lanes of traffic. They have wide shoulders and signs are designed to help you anticipate what is ahead. Pedestrians and slow moving vehicles are not permitted on expressways. Safe use of the freeway demands knowledge of special types of hazards. Vehicles can only enter and exit on interchanges.

Emergencies In case of emergencies, such as mechanical breakdowns: 1. Park entirely off the traveled portion and stay with your vehicle if at all possible. 2. Open the trunk, raise the hood if weather permits and tie a white cloth to the door handle or antenna. 3. Theses are signals, and any law enforcement officer can see them and give you assistance. (Distress Signal)

Emergencies Other than in cases of emergencies parking is not permitted. For highway emergencies, to report accidents and drunk drivers, dial *HP or (*47) on your cell phone to contact the Alabama State Troopers.

Freeway Entrances Entrance Ramps are provided for entering the freeways – These are short one way ramps that permit safe and easy entry onto the expressway. This will take you to the Acceleration Lane. Acceleration Lanes – As you approach this lane increase your speed to match that of the vehicles on the freeway. Watch for an opening, activate your turn signal, and merge smoothly with other traffic. Drivers on the freeway should allow room for those entering, but you must yield to them if they do not. DO NOT come to a stop in the acceleration lane unless absolutely necessary.

Steps for Entering the Freeway 1. Make sure that you have the proper entrance, look for signs that say “Wrong Way.” 2. Once on the entrance ramp, put on your turn signal, check to the rear through the mirrors and check to the front. 3. When you think that it is clear give a quick look over your left shoulder into your blind spot. 4. Keep accelerating and merge into traffic. 5. Once on the freeway, cancel you turn signal and adjust to traffic. 6. Drivers on the freeway should allow you room to merge, but you must yield to them if they do not.

Yielding When Yield sign is in place at an entrance ramp with no acceleration lane, entering traffic must obey the Yield sign and stop if necessary rather than force their way into the traffic stream.

Interchanges The intersection of two highways at different levels (over and under) with separate connecting roads for the transfer of traffic from one highway to the other is called an interchange. This design feature enables vehicles to cross, enter, or leave either highway without interfering with vehicles.

INTERCHANGES The four most common types Of interchanges are called : 1.Directional 2.Cloverleaf 3.Diamond 4.Trumpet

Interchanges Directional Interchange This type is used in complicated intersections where a high volume of traffic desires to transfer between only two legs of the interchange. Traffic is channeled in many directions.

Expressway Interchanges Cloverleaf Interchange Looks like a four-leaf clover and is designed to allow turning movements off or onto the freeway from four directions, using loop type connections. It eliminates left turn and cross traffic conflicts for all movements.

Diamond Interchange Diamond Interchange Diamond Interchanges are used when the cross street is not as busy as the freeway. This is the most basic of the interchanges. It is characterized by four ramps, allowing vehicles to enter or leave the main highway while flowing with the traffic. Left turns are made AFTER leaving the freeway.

Interchanges Interchanges Trumpet Interchange provides access to the freeway when another roadway connects, forming a “T” intersection. It is a variation of directional or diamond type interchanges to permit turning movements on and off the freeway.

Trumpet Interchange Trumpet Interchange The trumpet is the most traditional way of separating a three way junction. The trumpet is a cost effective way of getting all traffic in one place for toll booths. Example: Tuscaloosa/Northport Bypass

Exiting the Freeway Exiting the Freeway Exiting the freeway requires skill and advance planning. Never stop or back up if you go past your exit. Proceed to the next exit and come back to the one you missed. It's important to signal to the to indicate leaving the freeway. However, many drivers neglect that use of the turn signals and just assume that other drivers will know they are exiting.

EXITING Watch for and follow your exit signs Move into the proper lane well in advance Signal Move into the deceleration lane, then reduce speed as you prepare to enter the exit ramp. NEVER REDUCE SPEED SUDDENLY ON THE FREEWAY In the exit ramp be prepared to yield or stop at the intersecting roadway. If you miss your exit you must not stop, back up, or attempt to turn around; proceed to the next exit and come back to the one you missed.

Exiting Freeway Problems Exiting Freeway Problems Weaving Lane–This lane is used for both and entrance and an exit. Ramp Overflow – traffic backed up from exit ramp onto the freeway. Short Deceleration Lane – slow more quickly, identify ramp speed, and check rear zones.

Safe Freeway Driving Travel about the same speed as other drivers on the road. Know the name of roads, route numbers, and entrances/exits you will use. Plan stops for food, fuel, and rest when driving long distances. Keep vehicle in top condition to guard against mechanical failure on freeways.

Freeway Driving Build experience gradually, choose times when traffic is light. Never lose sight of the fact that high speed driving can present a high degree of danger. React cautiously if someone cuts you off. Be smooth with reactions at high speeds.

Freeway Traffic Safety Three key factors contribute to safe traffic safety on freeways: 1. Cooperation among drivers. 2. Concentration on the driving task. 3. Use of the SIPDE process.