Motorways

**Graham M** · 03-01-2007, 15:32

Right, I've NEVER set foot (or wheel) on the Motorway before yet I am due to be driving to Norfolk in just over a month's time (I might chicken out and get the train - but I'd rather drive)

Anyway, what do I need to know?

Thankyou kindly

**Russ** · 03-01-2007, 15:35

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zeph

Anyway, what do I need to know?

The speed limit

**Graham M** · 03-01-2007, 15:38

Quote:

Originally Posted by Russ B

The speed limit

Obviously

I beleive it's 80? (only joking :p)

Anyway any more helpful hints?

**Russ** · 03-01-2007, 15:43

Yes, you'll be needing to use your mirrors a lot more when you change lanes and instead of watching the road about 6 meters in front of you, you'll need to be watching a lot further ahead.

Apparently statistic prove motorway driving is a lot safer and urban driving, although I don't have anything to back it up with.

TheDaddy · 03-01-2007, 15:43

Don't be intimidated by it, they are far easier to drive on than most other roads

Knobbly · 03-01-2007, 15:44

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zeph

Obviously

I beleive it's 80? (only joking :p)

Anyway any more helpful hints?

They might seem intimidating but they're not, apart from the bungholes who believe they own the overtaking lane.

**Russ** · 03-01-2007, 15:45

You mean BMW drivers

**Graham M** · 03-01-2007, 15:46

Can you ring the AA on the Motorway (I'm covered) or do you have to use the Police phones if something goes wrong with the car?

Paul · 03-01-2007, 15:46

Do you know anyone who can take you out for a drive and act as co-pilot while you get used to the motorway driving?

**Graham M** · 03-01-2007, 15:47

My mum's boyfriend has offered to help, so hopefully, yes. I think the nearest bit of Motorway is about a 45 min drive which is a bit of a pain.

**Russ** · 03-01-2007, 15:48

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zeph

Can you ring the AA on the Motorway (I'm covered) or do you have to use the Police phones if something goes wrong with the car?

You can use the phones to ring an emergency operator and if the police are needed, they'll contact them.

Also if you do find yourself on the hard shoulder, exit the car by the passenger door and make sure your wheels are pointing to the near side (ie the inside).

Aragorn · 03-01-2007, 15:49

Learning the route in advance might help, eg A31, M27, M3, M25, M11, A11, etc.
Give yourself plenty of time - 4hrs+ from Poole.
Try driving to Soton on the M27 to practice beforehand.
Give lorries (and BMW's

) plenty of space when overtaking, esp foreign registered lorries.
If poss, avoid 'three in a bed' - having all three (or more) lanes with cars side by side (gives you no room for maneuver in an emergency).
Don't 'fight' for that gap - just relax and get there safe!

Probably more, but that should help some.

Knobbly · 03-01-2007, 15:50

Quote:

Originally Posted by Russ B

You mean BMW drivers

Them's the ones, you can almost hear them shouting "OMG! GET OUT OF THE WAY!"

TheDaddy · 03-01-2007, 15:52

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zeph

Can you ring the AA on the Motorway (I'm covered) or do you have to use the Police phones if something goes wrong with the car?

You can, if your car breaks down, don't sit in it on the hard shoulder, try and get yourself and passengers as far up the verge as possible.

superbiatch · 03-01-2007, 15:54

I built up the courage to do it myself on a quiet night, just give yourself a break if you cock up and learn from your mistakes.

If you miss your junction, carry on to the next one - its no big deal. And always remember your blind spot.

Good luck