Many people get confused between freeways and expressways. Both are fast roads, but they work in different ways. As a responsible driver or traffic safety official, you must be aware of why freeways & expressways are not the same.
Today, you will learn the main comparison of freeway vs expressway and their speed limits. We will also share important driving tips for both. So, you can drive safely and avoid fines.
What is a Freeway Road?
A freeway is a high-speed road that is designed for long-distance travel. Hence, you do not need to stop on a freeway. This keeps traffic movement smooth and safe. They have two parallel roads separated by a barrier or median. You can use freeways to save your time and travel safely over long distances.
How are freeways built? Freeways are built with safety and speed in mind. Engineers avoid sharp turns and steep slopes. Workers build wide lanes and strong road surfaces. Also, safety signs are placed to guide you clearly.
Example of Freeway
Some popular freeways include Interstate 5 in California and the German Autobahn. Another freeway example is highways like the 101 or 405 in Los Angeles. These roads allow smooth and nonstop travel.
Longest Freeway in the World
The long high speed road system is Australia’s Highway 1. This road is around 14500 kilometers long. This length makes it the world’s longest national freeway. This route links major cities across the country.
What is an Expressway?
Expressways are divided roads with limited access. These are also high speed routes. That means, you can travel faster on the expressway as compared to normal roads.
They may have interchanges for smooth traffic flow. Expressways are generally built on new routes. You may or may not find medians on these routes. They pass near cities but do not cut across them.
Expressway Examples
Common expressway examples include Germany’s Autobahn and the U.S. Interstate 95. These roads support higher speeds and fewer entry points as compared to regular highways.
Where is Longest Expressway?
China has the world’s longest expressway network. It extends over 131000 kilometers. A major project is the Tianshan Shengli Tunnel on the Urumqi Yuli Expressway in Xinjiang.
Difference Between Freeway and Expressway
Freeways and expressways both are fast roads, but they have some major differences. Below you can explore comparison of freeway vs expressway including how each road works and when to use them.
Access Points/Entry and Exit Control
Freeways are divided by roadways with full access control. To enter or exit on this path, you can only use ramps. You cannot enter or leave from side streets.
On expressways, you have limited access. Therefore, you cannot enter your car directly from nearby properties. Some expressways have interchanges, but access is not as tightly controlled as on freeways.
Traffic Signals
You will see no traffic signals, stop signs or road markings at freeways at all. The flow of traffic is uninterrupted because freeways are fully controlled access roads.
In contrast, expressways may have traffic signals in some cases. Although these roads are designed to let vehicles move smoothly, sometimes you have to stop at traffic lights.
Function/Driving Experience
Freeways are made in a way that drivers can cover long distances and fast travel. So, you can maintain high speed safely. Expressways are faster as compared to city streets. But they may have some stops. Furthermore, slow moving vehicles and pedestrians are not allowed. Expressways are good for your shorter fast trips plus large scale transportation systems.
Intersections & Crossings
On freeways, you will not observe intersections and pedestrian crossings. There is no need to stop for other traffic. Further, they do not connect directly to local streets or footpaths. It always has at least two lanes in each direction and a maximum of 3 lanes.
Expressways may have a few intersections. You also need to watch for crossing traffic. Commonly, this path has 2 to 8 lanes. They also allow points where roads cross or meet. This is generally managed by traffic signals or interchanges.
Speed Limits
Freeway Speed Limit: Average speed for freeway is 65 to 75 mph.
Expressway Speed Limit: Maximum speed limit for expressway is 70 mph (112 km/h).
Upgrade Potential
Freeways can be widened or upgraded more easily. For example: you can add lanes or ramps without much disruption. However, expressways are harder to expand if they have intersections or nearby buildings. Hence, you may face construction delays. In short, freeways are better for future growth.
Why Bikes Are Not Allowed on Expressways?
Well, bikes are generally not allowed on expressways for safety reasons. Because, many motorcycles are not strong or stable enough for high speeds. So, you may have a risk of crashes or dangerous collisions due to strong winds and fast moving cars. For that reason, authorities ban bikes to protect riders and drivers.
Freeway Lane Rules
You can read the instructions below to know how to drive on the freeway.
- You must stay in the right lane unless you are passing.
- Always use the left lane only to pass other vehicles.
- The right lanes of freeway are for slower traffic including big trucks.
- You should move over if you are driving slower than vehicles on your right.
- Never stay in the left lane after passing because faster vehicles may travel behind you.
- You should never block the left lane. The reason is, it can cause traffic jams and accidents.
Freeway Lane Numbers
If we talk about the freeway numbering system, it usually starts from left to right. For example: lanes are numbered 1, 2, 3 and so on from left side to right. Traffic responders can use these numbers to identify lanes on roads with three or more lanes marked the same way. Well, shoulders are not given lane numbers. They are called the left (inside) or right (outside) shoulder.
Expressway Lane Rules
- You should always stay within your lane. Never try to drive over lane markings, so you can avoid accidents.
- The leftmost lane is designed for fast moving traffic and overtaking. Remember, it is for cars only.
- The rightmost lane can be used by slow moving and heavy vehicles as well as for entering and exiting the road.
- Plus, the middle lanes are for normal traffic such as cars and light commercial vehicles.
- The hard shoulder is for emergency use only and you can be fined $7.20 (₹2000) if you misuse it.
Freeway Signs Meaning
Majorly, you will find three types of signs on freeways. These include regulatory, guide and warning signs. Regulatory signs tell you the rules and warning signs alert you to dangers.
Moreover, guide signs give directions. Other common signs guide you about speed limits, merging traffic, exits and lane use. Apart from that, freeway sound barriers are placed to reduce traffic noise.
Expressway Signs Meaning & Freeway Barriers
Signs on expressways are installed to control high speed vehicles and enforce road rules. They also guide you, warn you and show rules. Most signs are large and reflective. Traffic authorities use standard colors such as green for directions and red for prohibitions.
There are also safety barriers and guardrails used on freeways to keep vehicles on the road. As a result, you can prevent crashes and reduce the damage in case of an accident.
To Conclude
So, now you are able to differentiate freeways and expressways. You can drive safely and follow the right rules for both. Also, you see how each road works and which lanes you can use to avoid confusion and reduce risks.
If you have questions about freeways vs expressways or want to buy road safety products, JACKWIN’s team is ready to serve you. You can contact us for a quick quote.
FAQs
How To Avoid Freeways on Google Maps?
If you want to avoid freeways on Google Maps, you should enter your destination. Then, tap the three dot menu on the directions screen and choose Options. Now, turn on Avoid highways. After that, Google Maps will then give you a new route.
What States Have Freeways?
All 50 states and Puerto Rico have freeways. Well, most are part of the Dwight D. The 48 connected states share this network. Further, Alaska and Hawaii have designated interstate routes. These roads have no level crossings and exist in every state for safe & high speed travel.
Why Do Expressways Have Tolls?
Expressways mostly charge you tolls to pay for building, maintenance and keep roads functional. Tolls provide money directly for these projects without depending only on taxes. This way, you can keep the roads safe and in good condition for everyone who uses them.
Is Freeway Free?
Freeways have no toll booths. Hence, they are generally free to use and paid for with taxes, not tolls. However, you may need to pay tolls on some modern roads with freeway style design.
