What is the proper way to merge onto a freeway?

The proper way to merge onto a freeway involves accelerating to match the speed of traffic while yielding to vehicles that are already on the freeway. This approach ensures that you can blend smoothly into the flow of traffic, minimizing disruptions for both yourself and other drivers. By matching speeds, you reduce the risk of accidents that can occur if a driver enters the freeway at a significantly slower pace than surrounding vehicles.

Yielding is critical because vehicles already on the freeway have the right of way. This means that you should adjust your speed and position based on the traffic conditions, allowing for a safe merging process. The merging lane is designed to help drivers appropriately increase their speed before entering the main lanes of the freeway, ensuring a safer and more efficient transition.

In contrast, stopping or slowing dramatically before entering the freeway can create hazardous situations, as it might surprise other drivers who are traveling at higher speeds. Waiting for a clear space without checking mirrors can lead to dangerous blind spots and make merging unsafe. Similarly, merging without regard to other vehicles ignores the basic principle of safe driving, which emphasizes awareness and consideration for other road users.