What is the standard procedure for merging onto a highway?

The standard procedure for merging onto a highway emphasizes the importance of matching the speed of existing traffic to ensure a smooth and safe integration into the flow of vehicles. When merging onto a highway, drivers should accelerate in the on-ramp lane to reach a velocity that is comparable to that of the vehicles already traveling on the highway. This practice helps to minimize potential hazards and reduces the risk of accidents that can occur when vehicles are moving at significantly different speeds.

Merging safely involves being aware of the traffic around you and using mirrors to check for gaps in traffic, thus allowing for a smooth entry without forcing other drivers to brake or make sudden adjustments. This method prioritizes safety for everyone on the road and helps maintain the overall efficiency of the highway traffic flow.

Other options do not sufficiently address the importance of speed matching and safe merging practices. Reducing speed, for instance, could create dangerous situations by contributing to a significant speed differential with highway traffic, while merging without adjusting speed can lead to collisions as it disrupts the flow. Using turn signals only when necessary undermines the critical communication aspect with other drivers, which is crucial when changing lanes or merging. Therefore, the approach of accelerating to match the speed of traffic is vital for ensuring effective and safe highway