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Learning how to drive is an expression of freedom. Mobility is vital, especially in the United States where the majority of mass transit systems are wanting. However, motorists driving on every highway in the country make common mistakes that slow down traffic and endanger lives. Don’t be like them. 

Whether it’s driving too slowly or taking your eyes off the road, you could be making common highway driving mistakes

If you do any commuting, you’ve likely noticed inconsistencies among drivers. Some are reckless. Others are dangerously hesitant. Either way, many drivers commit these highway driving mistakes every day. 

  • Driving in the passing lane too slowly or for too long
  • Merging too hesitantly
  • Thinking that open space ahead is an invitation to check a smartphone

It’s a common complaint among left-lane hogs. “Why won’t they get out of the left lane?” Well, despite their own incorrect highway driving etiquette, there’s some truth to it. No, the left lane isn’t the “fast lane.” It is, however, a passing lane, for drivers to overtake slower-moving traffic from another lane. Consequently, camping in the passing lane, especially when driving too slowly, is a jerk move. 

Moreover, merging onto a crowded highway is an inherently dangerous maneuver. However, you can do yourself and everyone else a favor by moving with urgency as you merge. Get up to speed when merging and identify a safe place to merge. Additionally, drivers should never cut off a semi-truck. Large tractor-trailer trucks require long distances to stop from 55 mph. 

Even if you think you’re okay to drop your gaze to your smartphone for a moment, you might be wrong. Highway driving conditions can change without warning and drivers can panic stop ahead of you, dropping from 60 mph to 0 in as little as 120 feet. Every moment you’re looking down at your phone, you’re slowing your reaction time to an obstacle ahead. 

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving is a leading cause of death among American motorists. In 2022, 3,308 people died from distracted driving crashes. On the highway at speeds between 65 and 80 mph, a moment of distraction can be deadly.   

See? You may have been committing some of the most hated faux pas highway driving maneuvers without realizing it. But now that you do, kindly stop. America thanks you.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).