Texas Driver's License Knowledge TestSafe Driving PracticesMedium
A driver is preparing to exit a multi-lane highway. To safely navigate the exit ramp, what is the best practice regarding speed?
- ADecelerate only after entering the deceleration lane or ramp.
- BMaintain highway speed until on the exit ramp, then brake sharply.
- CBegin to slow down gradually while still on the main highway.
- DIncrease speed slightly to quickly clear the highway traffic.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Decelerate only after entering the deceleration lane or ramp.
Deceleration lanes and exit ramps are designed for drivers to slow down safely. Braking sharply on the main highway can create a hazard for following traffic, while maintaining highway speed on the ramp can lead to loss of control. The best practice is to enter the deceleration lane or ramp at highway speed, and then begin to slow down.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Braking sharply on the ramp after maintaining highway speed is dangerous and can lead to loss of control.
- C. Slowing down on the main highway before entering the deceleration lane can impede traffic flow and increase collision risk.
- D. Increasing speed when exiting is incorrect and highly dangerous, as ramps often have lower speed limits and sharp curves.
Highway Exiting Speed
When exiting a highway, enter the deceleration lane or ramp at highway speed, then gradually reduce speed to match the ramp's advisory speed.
- Prevents traffic disruption on the main highway.
- Allows for smooth transition to lower speeds.
- Reduces risk of loss of control on curves.
Memory trick: Decelerate on the ramp, not on the main highway camp.