How To Stop Safely On The Highway
Sometimes, you may need to pull over to the shoulder of the highway. When a driver parks on the shoulder of the highway, it ensures that they do not block traffic flow. Stopping on the shoulder of the highway is always better than pulling over in a lane. However, this does not mean that stopping on the shoulder of the highway is not dangerous. Pulling over on the highway shoulder can be extremely dangerous for both the driver pulling over and other road users. For example, stopping at the highway shoulder puts pedestrians at risk. Also, stopping at the shoulder of the highway creates an increased risk of side-swipe accidents. For these and many other reasons, it is vital that you understand how to stop safely on the highway.
How To Stop Safely on the Shoulder of the Highway
The most crucial thing to know as a driver is to avoid stopping at the highway shoulder at all costs. This means that before heading out, you should check the condition of your vehicle. For example, ensure your vehicle’s tires are properly inflated. If your car has an issue, avoid driving it until a mechanic fixes it.
If you do not have any other option but to stop at the shoulder of the highway, the following are some things you should do to ensure your safety and that of other road users;
Stop on the Right Side if You Can
The right side of the road is generally the safest side to stop a vehicle. Pulling over to the right side will get you out of traffic much quicker. When you pull over to the left side, you put yourself between two opposing sides of traffic. This can be dangerous. Also, there is more room on the right side to get away from traffic than on the left side.
If it is an extreme emergency, you may not have a choice as to where you would like to stop on the side of the highway. But if you can choose where you would like to stop, it is best that you choose to stop on the right side.
Do Not Slam on the Brakes
When stopping on the shoulder of the highway, do not slam on the brakes. The other drivers may not be paying attention to you. Instead of slamming on the brakes, ease off the accelerator slowly as you gradually drift off the highway and onto the shoulder.
Signal To Other Drivers
Use your turn signals before stopping on the shoulder of the highway. When you use your turn signals, you warn other drivers of your intention and allow them to adjust their driving accordingly.
Remain in Your Car if You Can
Unless your vehicle has experienced an issue you can fix, it is best to stay inside your car after stopping on the highway shoulder. If you must get out of your vehicle, be extremely cautious.
Legal Help Is Available
After being involved in a Florida car accident because of another party’s negligence, you may be eligible to recover compensation. Our Miami personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm can help in such an event.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the West Palm Beach, Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Jacksonville, Ocala, Orlando, Daytona Beach, and Bradenton areas.
