Final answer:
Always obey traffic signs and signals, maintain a safe following distance, and stay aware of your surroundings when driving on major roadways. These practices help prevent accidents and ensure a safer driving experience for everyone on the road, including other motorists, pedestrians, and emergency vehicles.
Step-by-step explanation:
When driving on major roadways, there are three key practices you should always adhere to ensuring safety and compliance with traffic laws:
- Obey traffic signs and signals: Understanding and following all roadway signs and traffic signals is essential for maintaining order and safety on the roads. For instance, knowing how to interpret a stop sign or a traffic light enables drivers to navigate intersections properly.
- Maintain a safe following distance: Keeping a safe distance between your vehicle and the one ahead allows adequate time for braking and can help prevent rear-end collisions. This is crucial when other drivers make sudden stops or if road conditions are poor.
- Stay aware of your surroundings: Be vigilant of pedestrians, cyclists, animals, and other road users, such as when you see a woman pushing a baby stroller or a dog running out into the street. Additionally, you should be mindful of emergency vehicles and know how to safely respond, such as pulling over or stopping when an ambulance is approaching.
It's important to plan your route in advance and be prepared for any unexpected events. For instance, if an ambulance is approaching, the correct action would be to stop moving and become stationary till it passes by. When faced with various distractions or scenarios on the road, these safe driving practices become even more critical to follow.