【Car Knowledge】Freeway Driving Safety Tips
Hong Kong Expressway Driving Safety Tips
──Editor’s personal experience + practical tips──
1. Preparation before getting on the highway
1. Check the vehicle condition
- Fuel level : Make sure the tank is fully fueled. There are usually no gas stations on Hong Kong's expressways (such as the Lantau Link), so don't run out of gas.
- Tires : Check tire pressure, tread, and signs of abnormal wear or blowout.
- Lights : Headlights, brake lights, and turn signals must all be functioning properly, which is especially important at night/in rainy days.
- Water paddle/windshield washer fluid : There is often heavy rain during the rainy season, so make sure the water paddle is not aged and there is enough windshield washer fluid.
2. Plan your route
- Familiarize yourself with the map or GPS to anticipate exit and turn locations and reduce temporary route changes.
- Keep an eye on traffic news (such as traffic accidents, road maintenance, and road closures) in advance using apps such as the Hong Kong Transport Department, Google Maps, and Waze.
3. Mental preparation
- Don't drive while tired - highways require extreme concentration.
- Stay calm and patient, and don't be impatient when encountering traffic jams or slow traffic.
Editor's Tips:
The "three-minute check" before driving has become a habit for me. Prevention is better than cure, especially when taking long trips on holidays or driving late at night!
2. Highway Driving Safety Rules
1. Strictly observe speed limits and safe distances
- The speed limit on Hong Kong's expressways is generally 80-110km/h . Do not exceed the speed limit.
- Maintain the **two-second rule** (i.e. maintain a distance of at least two seconds from the vehicle in front), and increase the distance in rainy days or at night.
- Never tailgate or urge others to do so. This is dangerous and may lead to charges of dangerous driving.
2. Use lanes correctly
- Drive on the left , and use the middle/fast lane only for overtaking. Return to the left lane after use.
- Do not occupy the center lane or fast lane for a long time (commonly known as "center lane king" or "fast lane king"), which may hinder other vehicles.
- Always turn on the indicator light when changing lanes, turn on the indicator light in advance, and observe blind spots.
3. Tips for safe overtaking
- You must overtake on the right . The left lane is for moving/slow vehicles only and should not be used for overtaking.
- Turn on your lights and make sure it is safe before changing lanes. Do not "snake" or weave in and out frequently.
- Return to the original lane as soon as possible after overtaking and do not occupy the fast lane for a long time.
4. Maintain a steady speed and stable operation
- Do not speed up or slow down suddenly, keep the flow smooth and pay attention to the speed changes of the vehicles ahead.
- Beware of "ghost cuts" - if a driver suddenly slows down or makes an urgent entrance or exit, anticipate them in advance.
- Try to avoid sudden braking without reason to prevent the car behind you from rear-ending you.
5. Be aware of blind spots and blind spots
- Always check your blind spots using your rearview mirror, side mirrors, and by looking over your shoulder before changing lanes.
- Pay special attention to trucks, buses, and motorcycles, as they have larger blind spots.
6. Be careful with large vehicles and special road sections
- When encountering large vehicles such as trucks and tourist buses, avoid staying on the side or rear of them for a long time as they can easily enter their blind spots.
- Mountain expressways (such as Tai Lam Tunnel and Tseung Kwan O Tunnel) have many bends and narrow roads, so you should drive slowly.
- Pay special attention to slow vehicles and cutting vehicles at entrance and exit curves, diversion points, and confluences.
7. Severe Weather Response
- In rainy days, you need to slow down and keep a safe distance from the vehicle you are following , as highways are prone to water accumulation and slipping.
- Turn on the fog lights in heavy fog and avoid driving with double yellow lights.
- In strong winds, hold the steering wheel tightly with both hands to prevent sudden deviation.
8. Night driving precautions
- Maintain your speed and don't slack off just because the road is smooth.
- Avoid looking directly at oncoming headlights for extended periods of time. You can also fine-tune your sight to reduce glare.
- Driving while tired at night is particularly dangerous. If you feel sleepy, you should stop and rest immediately.
3. What should I do in case of an emergency?
1. Vehicle breakdown/flat tire
- Turn on the double yellow lights and drive as slowly as possible toward the shoulder of the road or the emergency lane.
- Passengers should remain in their vehicles and not linger in the lane.
- Pick up a reflective triangle and place it at least 50 metres behind your vehicle (Hong Kong law) as a reminder.
- Immediately call the tow line or the police (999).
2. Traffic accident
- First confirm the safety of the personnel and call the police if necessary.
- If the vehicle can be moved, it should be moved to a safe location.
- Take photos, collect evidence, and never argue with the other party or block traffic.
3. Encountering traffic jams/slow traffic
- Be patient and avoid changing lines too frequently, as this will only increase the risk of accidents.
- Listen to traffic radio (FM 97.6/106.8/99.7) for the latest traffic conditions.
4. Special regulations for Hong Kong expressways you need to know
- Pedestrians, bicycles and motorcycles under 50cc are prohibited from entering the expressway .
- Stopping/parking in any non-designated emergency lane is strictly prohibited and offenders may be prosecuted.
- Reversing, turning around, and driving in the opposite direction are strictly prohibited .
- Violations of safe driving regulations may result in dangerous driving charges, license revocation, and even imprisonment .
5. The editor sincerely shares × practical experience
- Hong Kong's expressways are not actually very long, but they have many intersections and complex exits, so it is absolutely important to prepare in advance and change lanes in advance .
- During rush hours in the morning and evening, traffic is extremely dense. Be patient and don't rush or cut lanes randomly , as this can easily lead to a chain reaction.
- During the rainy season (May-September), there is a lot of water that is difficult to clear and the roads are flooded. When it rains heavily, it is better to go slowly . Safety is the most important thing.
- When driving at night, if you encounter a vehicle suspected of being drunk, driving at high speed, or having its lights malfunction, try to avoid it and change lanes early to stay away .
- Sometimes when you encounter out-of-town drivers or novice drivers who are hesitant on the highway, don't honk your horn to rush them. Give them space and time .
Summary:
Highways may appear safe on the surface, but they're actually fraught with danger, relying entirely on the discipline and cooperation of every driver. Hong Kong is a compact place, and accidents can lead to massive traffic jams. Stay safe, and protect other road users too!
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can a novice driver drive on the highway?
A: New drivers with a formal driver's license can do this, but it is recommended that you first gain experience driving in the city and then choose a time when there are fewer cars to gradually adapt.
Q2: What if the exit is missed?
A: Do not rush or reverse, go straight to the next exit and then turn around, safety is the most important thing.
Q3: Is there CCTV/police enforcement on highways?
A: Most major roads and tunnels are equipped with CCTV and mobile police patrols. Violations are easily prosecuted, so do not take chances.
Q4: Where is the most likely area for traffic jams on Hong Kong’s expressways?
A: Traffic jams are common during rush hour at places like the Hung Hom Cross-Harbour Tunnel, Lion Rock Tunnel, Tuen Mun Road, and Lantau Link. Plan ahead and avoid rush hour.
Summary × Editor's Advice
The highway is fast but not chaotic, stable but not rough.
Every time you drive on the highway, you should practice "forewarning, preparation, and prevention." Safe driving not only protects yourself, but also everyone in the car and on the road. Hong Kong's transportation may be convenient, but sometimes a single car or a single detail can affect a whole group of people.
Remember: a moment of pleasure may lead to a lifetime of regret!
If you have any other driving questions, please leave a message or private message the editor to discuss driving safety tips! I wish you all a safe trip and a smooth journey!
