A freeway is a type of highway where access to the roadway is controlled, and drivers can only enter it by ramps. Traffic traveling in opposite directions is usually separated by a median, and vehicles wanting to cross a freeway must use an overpass or underpass. Freeways are usually in an urban setting and have higher speed limits.
On the other hand, a highway is a general term used for roads that typically dont have traffic lights and have a higher speed limit relative to streets in residential and commercial zones. Highways will also have cross-traffic, traffic signals, and sometimes pedestrian crossings. They can usually be found in rural areas and often have lower speed limits than freeways. There will be no exit or entrance ramps on a highway that is not a freeway.
In summary, the main differences between a freeway and a highway are:
- Access: Freeways have controlled access, while highways have at-grade crossings and intersections or traffic signals.
- Speed limits: Freeways have higher speed limits than highways.
- Location: Freeways are usually in an urban setting, while highways are more prevalent in rural areas.
Its important to note that all freeways are highways, but not all highways are freeways.