As a fresh driver in the province of Ontario, you may be keen about the conditions that come with your G2 license especially about driving on certain highways such as the 401. You’ve probably heard of the 401. Also, when you talk about highways, Highway 401 is one of the busiest stretches in the country traversing the province and linking various key cities in one place. It is significant to understand how the law treats you on the highway while holding this license and that is safety and legality of traffic rules. The purposes of this work are to outline what ought to concern an individual who possesses a G2 driving license when operating a vehicle on the 401.
How the G2 License Works
The G2 is the second proceeding stage in the process of inviting for the driving test in Ontario. This explains why there are license classes and why after receiving your G1, there is a prerequisite waiting time of one year before one can attempt the G2 test. This gradually increases the level of confidence as the G2 license allows independent driving however it is still subject to a few limitations which aim at assisting new drivers with experience on the road.
Limitations of G2 License
As G2 driving permit holder, you can be able to drive without an erstwhile licensed driver in the vehicle. Even though this is the case, a few things with restrictions should be observed.
- Passenger Restrictions: In the first 6 months of receiving a G2 cellphone license, only 1 passenger who is 19 years of age or less is allowed, provided there is no qualified driver, within the first 6 months. Thereafter, 3 passengers can be seated in the said vehicle under the same age conditions.
- No Blood Alcohol Concentration: G2 holders are not allowed to drive after consuming any measure of alcohol. This clearly is to protect the driver and other road users as well.
- Driving Hours: There are no number of hours however people say no driving at night is however no such claim. Night time driving for new drivers should be minimized until they are more sure of themselves.
- Highway Driving: With all the inclusiveness however, the G2 is quite unique still- the holder of G2 is permitted to drive on all set roads including highways that are like 401.
Driving on the 401 with a G2 License
Yes, a G2 driver is allowed to drive on 401 highway. There are no particular provisions that restrict G2 drivers from using the 401 or other major arterial roads. In fact, highway practices would probably be one of the best practices to undertake, as there is quite a change in the driving environment with more speed and faster cars.
Tips for Driving on the 401 as a G2 Driver
Even though driving on the 401 is allowed, there are some important things which need to be done so that both the driver and others on the road remain safe:
- Driving on the 401 has a speed limit: The 401 has speed restrictions that vary according to the area of operation. In metropolitan locations, the limit is about 100 km/h, whereas on the highway, it can be more in the countryside area. Bear in mind the velocity limit signs and reduce the speed in compliance.
- Always Cut in After Merging 401: Merging onto the highway is one of the areas that creates problems for a number of new drivers and the case on the highway is not different. Some symptoms to include are mirror checks, indicators and up to the same speed as a car goes when the subject car goes onto 401.
- Keep a Safe Following Distance: In all activities, there is always a reasonable distance that should be maintained when doing an activity. In this case, there must be some distance that should exist between one’s vehicle and the vehicle in front of them. This is also helpful in giving you an adequate response to sudden stops and slow motion.
- Make Good Use of Your Signals: Use turn signals whenever you make maneuvers like a lane change or a merger. This action is very simple but can be very effective in avoiding traffic accidents and making roads safer.
- Remain Poised: Driving on the highways is generally a tedious activity but one needs to remain alert. Do not text while driving and refrain from taking the wheel until one feels fresh again.
- Prepare Yourself for the Journey: Assess the planned route in detail right before leaving for the journey. Enable maximum use of a GPS or a map app to ensure the exit points can be identified and followed accordingly.
Handling Highway Emergencies
Talk of aggressiveness and anxiety for emergencies and the very belle of emergencies comes to most drivers attention, the ultimate nightmare of every driver, and that is highway emergencies. Here are some of the best guidelines, whether you are on your own or with someone, to apply in case a difficult situation arises:
- If You Have a Flat Tire: If you happen to be traveling along the 401 and suddenly get a flat tire, there is no need to panic. Reach for your indicators and with care drive towards the shoulder. Switch on the hazard lights and sit inside the vehicle till help comes.
- If You Run Out of Gas: If you run out of gas, make sure to indicate and carefully pull your car to the shoulder. Call assistance from a friend or the roadside to get you back on the road.
- If You Experience a Breakdown: If you encounter technical difficulties especially with flat tires; if the trouble is serious, safely stop the vehicle away from the edge. Turn your hazard lights on. Stay inside the vehicle until help comes.
Practice Makes Perfect
Highway driving on the 401 can be tiresome for new learners. But, practice is indeed the answer. If possible, take short practice rides during the off-peak traffic giving you the added mileage to develop confidence on your way.
The Role of Driving Schools
You may also want to take the path of semi-automatic instructors driving school to improve yourself. Trained instructors teach you defensive driving and help you deal with challenging driving situations.
Raven Driving School covers professional lessons in driving for beginners level giving you maximum training possible.
Conclusion
The 401 may be approached with a G2 license, which is commendable as one can get to practice driving on one of Ontario’s busiest highways. In the event that you have abided by the advice shared in this article, you can undertake personal driving without any fear or safety worry. But remember that everybody requires practice, which is why if driving is doubtful, professional help should be accepted without any discomfort.
When you know the restrictions and the obligations behind being a G2 driver, driving restrictions may still remain but the freedom to do something which is quite super can also be abused and so very dangerous hence everyone’s safety when driving.