question about slowing down for an exit on the highway

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by snowbird_89, Sep 3, 2009.

  1. GasHauler

    GasHauler Master FMCSA Interpreter

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    Oct 23, 2005
    Vegas/Jersey
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    That question can not be answered since there's so many variables involved. Just remember that most speed limits on the off ramps are for trucks unless you're driving a truck where the load may shift then you'll need to go slower. Be in the right gear before you're in the turn and don't apply power until you're out of the turn.
     
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  3. Darkschneidr

    Darkschneidr Light Load Member

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    Jan 31, 2009
    Phoenix, AZ
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    I Agree, If I know I'm coming up on a short ramp I'll gradually drop my speed a bit before the exit, not unreasonably so, but enough to where I can stop or drop my road speed in a hurry if needed. I also make sure I have my turn signal on. I figure if anything, that should let the guy behind me know my intentions and why I'm slowing down.
     
  4. Roadmedic

    Roadmedic Road Train Member

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    Apr 4, 2007
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    Sorry, I have to disagree.

    Turn the blinker on way before the exit. Slow down before you enter the exit. Misjudging the exit is one of the reasons that trucks end up on their side.

    It is better to be safe than be sorry.
     
  5. LesVegas

    LesVegas Bobtail Member

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    1
    Sep 4, 2009
    Fairbanks, AK
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    I was told to keep highway speed until you exit... then when you get to the posted mph sign to slow down to that speed. Very scary when the exit ramp is short!
     
  6. 25(2)+2

    25(2)+2 Trucker Forum STAFF Staff Member

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    Sep 18, 2006
    the road less travelled
    0
    It was back when I was first driving truck that I heard this, slowing down over 10 miles per hour below the speed you had been traveling is called impeding traffic. Schools were teaching to slow down sooner and more smoothly, while law enforcement was pushing for the ramp deceleration method. The schools did inform that the law wanted the speed kept up out in the travel lanes.

    I watch what is behind me, tailgaters get plenty of warning that I'm going to leave the highway on a ramp, if there is no traffic, I coast down a long way.

    You might want to maintain the minimum speed if traffic is heavy and moving well to avoid that talk with the law.

    The speeds on ramps are guides, I will admit to having some advantage from running the same routes often. The trailers I pull are like a brake; you slow down pretty fast on upgrades or the flat if you get off the gas.
     
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