Safe driving on the highway
- Always observe highway speed limits.
- Activate your turning signal well in advance before changing lanes.
- Avoid sudden or erratic steering or you may lose control of your car and roll over.
- Take regular breaks. Don't drive while tired.
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FAQ
Read our Frequently Asked Questions.
Observe speed limits and adjust for conditions—posted limits assume dry roads and full visibility
Signal well in advance of lane changes and check blind spots carefully, particularly for motorcycles and cyclists
Avoid sudden or erratic steering inputs at highway speeds—stability is much harder to recover once lost at 100+ km/h
Take regular breaks on long drives: driver fatigue is a major contributor to highway collisions, especially on monotonous rural highways
Keep a consistent following distance: the two-second rule in ideal conditions; double or triple in rain, fog, or snow
Be prepared for changed conditions: Canadian highway weather can shift quickly—from sun to sudden snow squalls
Significantly. Highway driving at sustained speeds puts more thermal load on tires—tires that are underinflated heat up faster and wear unevenly, increasing the risk of failure. Tire type matters too: touring all-season tires are optimized for highway comfort, longevity, and lower noise levels, while performance tires provide sharper handling but may increase road noise at speed. Before a long highway trip, always check tire pressure (cold), inspect for any visible damage, and confirm tread depth is adequate for the conditions you'll encounter along the route.
No—not above your vehicle manufacturer's recommended cold inflation pressure. Overinflated tires have a smaller contact patch, which reduces grip and increases the risk of damage from road hazards. Some drivers think higher pressure = safer on the highway, but the correct pressure is always the one on your door jamb placard, not the maximum listed on the sidewall. If you're carrying a full load or towing on the highway, check your owner's manual—some vehicles specify a higher pressure for loaded conditions, and that recommendation should be followed.
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Fog Driving
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Fatigue Driving
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In Canada, a vehicle is only as safe as its tires. Even the best winter tires won’t perform optimally if they're installed too late or if they are under-inflated in cold weather. Understanding how temperature changes affect tire pressure and knowing the right time to make the seasonal swap are critical for safe driving all season long.View more