11.1 Signaling, Lane Use & Highway Driving

"You are expected to drive straight ahead, unless you show otherwise." That sentence from the Manual explains why signaling is required for every move in traffic. This section also covers how to use lanes and how to drive on Massachusetts highways.

Signaling

You must use signals whatever vehicle you drive, every time you stop or make a move in traffic. If your electric signals don't work, use the three hand signals (left turn, right turn, slow or stop), made through the driver's side window. You must know them to pass the road test. Bicyclists may signal with either arm.

When a signal is required

• changing lanes;
• turning at an intersection or into a driveway;
• pulling away from a curb;
• pulling over to the side of the road;
• entering or exiting an expressway or freeway.

Turn the signal off after the move.

The three-step routine

Any time you turn, merge, join traffic from a stop or change lanes:

1. Check your mirrors for traffic behind you, and check the blind spot on the side you are moving toward.
2. Signal your intent.
3. Make your move.

On the highway the Manual shortens this to "(1) look, (2) signal, (3) move."

Using Lanes

Use lanes as signs and markings define them, including special turn lanes, restricted lanes for buses, carpools and bicycles, and breakdown lanes on highway shoulders.

On roads with two or more lanes in your direction, use the right lane unless:

• you are passing;
• you are turning left;
• the right lane is blocked.

General rules:

• Never change lanes in the middle of an intersection. It is illegal and dangerous.
• Breakdown lanes are generally not for travel or passing. Some highways allow travel in them during specific posted hours, and that use is very restricted.
• On a curve where you can't see ahead, keep right and slow down.
• Restricted lanes (HOV, bus, bicycle) may not be used except when preparing for a turn.

Motorcycle lane rules

• Don't ride along the pavement lines between lanes.
• Ride no more than two abreast.
• Stay off highways and expressways unless the motorcycle can safely reach posted minimum speeds.

Highway Driving

A divided highway has separate roadways for opposite directions, often with several lanes each. Highway limits are usually 45 to 65 mph. Controlled-access highways, also called expressways or freeways, have no signals or intersections; you enter and exit by ramps at interchanges. Massachusetts examples are I-90, I-495 and Route 128.

Entering and exiting

On the highway

• Make sure your vehicle can operate safely at highway speeds.
• Stay right; use the left lane for passing. With three or more lanes: far right for slower driving, middle for faster driving, far left for passing.
• Drive in the middle of your lane.
• Use the mirrors, check blind spots and signal for every lane change: look, signal, move.
• Don't linger in another driver's blind spot. If you are in one, drive through it safely and promptly.
• Large vehicles have big blind spots on the right, left, front and rear. Don't follow a truck or bus closely, and stay out of the space around it.
• Watch for vehicles entering and for vehicles or people in the breakdown lane.
• Don't weave in and out of traffic.
• Watch for construction signs, crews and reduced-speed or lane-change signs.
• Avoid "highway hypnosis." If you feel tired after long driving, leave at the next exit, rest stop or service area.
• On long trips, stop and stretch every two hours or every 100 miles.

Breakdowns on the highway

Move the vehicle to the breakdown lane or shoulder, as far from traffic as possible, and stay in the vehicle. Don't stand near the travel lane or in the breakdown lane; many people have been killed that way. Section 14.3 covers warning devices and when to leave the vehicle.

MassDOT's 511 service gives real-time traffic and construction information.

Highway Lesson Checklist