Driving on motorway for first time

Hi All

So I passed my test last month and would like to start driving on the motorway soon. I'm going to be moving to Navan early next year so it will be the M3 that I'll mainly be using and leaving at the Blanch exit. While the weather conditions are good,I would like to practice the journey a few times. I can start off at off peak times and eventually try rush hour as confidence builds.

As you know, Motorway driving is not part of your lessons or the driving test and L plates are not allowed so I have never driven on a motorway yet. Fastest speed I have drove is about 90.

Like many others I'm sure, I am slightly nervous about merging onto the motorway.

Did other people take motorway lessons? Or go with a friend the first times? Or go it alone? Was it nerve wracking or was it easier than expected when you got to the end of the slip road?
What would be the best quiet times to just do a practise run?

I have a feeling it won't be too difficult but obviously the fear is that I'll reach the end of the slip road and have a bunch of cars approaching with no space to move on.

troyzer

Deleted User wrote: »

Hi All

So I passed my test last month and would like to start driving on the motorway soon. I'm going to be moving to Navan early next year so it will be the M3 that I'll mainly be using and leaving at the Blanch exit. While the weather conditions are good,I would like to practice the journey a few times. I can start off at off peak times and eventually try rush hour as confidence builds.

As you know, Motorway driving is not part of your lessons or the driving test and L plates are not allowed so I have never driven on a motorway yet. Fastest speed I have drove is about 90.

Like many others I'm sure, I am slightly nervous about merging onto the motorway.

Did other people take motorway lessons? Or go with a friend the first times? Or go it alone? Was it nerve wracking or was it easier than expected when you got to the end of the slip road?
What would be the best quiet times to just do a practise run?

I have a feeling it won't be too difficult but obviously the fear is that I'll reach the end of the slip road and have a bunch of cars approaching with no space to move on.

I went with my Mam the first time on the M50. It's not really a headwreck at all. The speed at which people merge and change lanes is slightly intimidating at first but it only takes a few attempts before it becomes natural.

If you really are that nervous then go with someone for a few times. But go during the shoulder hours, that's when they're at their worst.

spurious

I took an hour and a half lesson on motorways after I passed. Merging, overtaking, more merging, more merging. Best money I ever spent.

Thanks both

Think I will definitely go with some kind of supervision whether its a friend or instructor.

Reati

It's pretty easy based on how others here drive. On 3 lane motorways drive in middle lane at a speed no more than 80. On 2 lanes always drive in the right lane, no matter what. In heavy traffic ensure you close gaps tighter than a nuns F*nny (just in case someone get's into that gap). If you see a gap open, get into it. Someone else will if you dont. Don't ever let anyone into a gap in front of you though... oh and when merging, don't try to merge at the speed of the traffic. It's always best to merge into a 120 zone at about 60 for example.

Now, if you want to be a good driver on the motor do the opposite of what I say and don't learn from the rest of the "amnesty" drivers on the road!

spurious

You forgot when merging, get up to speed, get into the desired lane, then inexplicably whack on the brakes.

punisher5112

Drive across hatched markings and straight into lane 3 it's the only way.....

Please please use whatever power you have and do your best to merge at a similar speed if not matching those around you.

Check your blind spot for motorbikes.