What is the proper way to merge onto a highway?

Merging onto a highway safely requires understanding the dynamics of highway traffic. The correct approach is to increase your speed to match that of the vehicles already on the highway. This is crucial because highway traffic typically moves faster than surface street traffic, and merging at a similar speed allows for a smoother and safer entry into the flow of vehicles.

Finding an appropriate gap in traffic is also essential. This means assessing the speed and distance of approaching vehicles to ensure you can enter the lane without causing disruptions or forcing other drivers to brake unexpectedly. When drivers take these steps, they contribute to overall roadway safety and efficiency.

Other choices present less effective strategies. For example, using brakes before merging can create unnecessary confusion and could lead to collisions, as it may cause trailing vehicles to react unpredictably. Merging at a right angle is dangerous and impractical for highways, where traffic flows in a straight line and at higher speeds. Relying on a police officer for assistance is not standard protocol unless there is an unusual situation that truly warrants it. Safe merging requires individual responsibility and awareness of surrounding traffic conditions.