Lesson 3 · Sharing the road
Who has the right of way when merging onto a highway?
Short answer
Traffic already on the highway. Use the on-ramp to match their speed, signal, and slide into a gap.
Watch it play out
How to do it
- Look at highway traffic early, while you are still on the ramp.
- Speed up to match the flow.
- Signal, check your mirror and blind spot.
- Merge into a gap without forcing anyone to brake.
Why the rule works this way
Highway traffic is moving fast and cannot stop suddenly. A smooth merge at matching speed is the safest way in. Highway drivers should also make room when they can.
Common mistakes
- Merging too slowly, which forces highway cars to brake hard.
- Stopping at the end of the ramp when traffic is moving.
Questions people ask
Should highway drivers move over for me?
They should make space if it is safe, but they are not required to. The merging driver must yield.