TrafficMedium risk
Merging traffic
Join flowing traffic smoothly and safely
Merging onto highways is one of the most demanding driving tasks, requiring speed matching, gap assessment, and coordinated timing. Proper technique makes this safer for everyone.
Why this matters
Failed merges cause dangerous speed differentials and force sudden braking. Matching speed to traffic and choosing appropriate gaps is critical for safe highway driving.
Key actions to take
- Use the full length of acceleration lane
- Build speed to match traffic flow
- Check mirrors and blind spots
- Select a suitable gap early
- Merge smoothly without hesitation
Do
- Signal your intention early
- Adjust speed to fit the gap
- Make eye contact with other drivers when possible
- Thank drivers who make space with a wave
Don't
- Stop on the acceleration lane
- Merge at slow speed into fast traffic
- Force your way into gaps
- Wait for a "perfect" gap: adjust speed
Important warning
Never stop on an acceleration lane except in emergencies. If traffic is too heavy to merge, continue to the shoulder and wait for a safe gap.
Pro tips
- Existing traffic should maintain speed: do not slow for mergers
- Zipper merge (alternating) is most efficient at lane drops
- Practice judging gaps at different speeds