Texas Driver's License Knowledge TestSafe Driving PracticesHard
A driver is merging onto a highway. The acceleration lane is short, and traffic on the highway is heavy but moving at the posted speed limit. What is the most important action for the driver to take?
- AForce their way into a gap, assuming other drivers will yield.
- BMatch the speed of highway traffic and look for a safe gap to merge.
- CAccelerate slowly to conserve fuel while looking for an opening.
- DStop at the end of the acceleration lane and wait for a large gap.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Match the speed of highway traffic and look for a safe gap to merge.
When merging, the primary goal is to match the speed of highway traffic to blend in seamlessly. While a short acceleration lane and heavy traffic make this challenging, the driver must still accelerate to highway speed and actively look for a safe gap. Forcing entry or stopping can create dangerous situations.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Forcing entry is aggressive and highly dangerous, leading to potential collisions.
- C. Accelerating slowly is dangerous as it prevents matching highway speed, making it difficult and unsafe to merge.
- D. Stopping at the end of an acceleration lane is extremely dangerous, especially with heavy traffic, as it creates a stationary obstacle.
Highway Merging (Short Lane)
When merging with a short acceleration lane and heavy traffic, match highway speed and actively look for a safe gap; never stop or force entry.
- Speed matching is critical for safe merging.
- Stopping on an acceleration lane is extremely hazardous.
- Requires quick decision-making and awareness of surroundings.
Memory trick: Speed match, gap watch, smoothly merge, no lurch.