New York DMV Permit Written TestSafe Driving PracticesHard
A driver is traveling on a multi-lane highway and needs to exit using a deceleration lane. What is the correct procedure for entering and using a deceleration lane?
- ASlow down significantly on the main highway before entering the deceleration lane.
- BSignal after entering the deceleration lane and then brake hard.
- CEnter the deceleration lane at highway speed and then begin to slow down.
- DCross solid white lines to enter the deceleration lane as late as possible.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Enter the deceleration lane at highway speed and then begin to slow down.
Deceleration lanes are designed for drivers to slow down OFF the main flow of traffic. The correct procedure is to enter the deceleration lane at or near highway speed and then gradually reduce speed within the lane itself. Slowing on the main highway creates a hazard.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Slowing down on the main highway before entering the deceleration lane is dangerous and can cause rear-end collisions.
- B. Signaling after entering is too late. Braking hard is unsafe and can cause a skid or loss of control.
- D. Crossing solid white lines is illegal and dangerous, indicating you should not merge there.
Using Deceleration Lanes
Enter deceleration lanes at highway speed, then slow down gradually within the lane to exit safely without impeding highway traffic.
- Purpose: slow down off the main highway.
- Enter at highway speed.
- Slow down gradually within the lane.
Memory trick: Deceleration lane: speed in, slow down within.