MergingUnited States
Traffic rules
United States
1. Merging
Merging is the process of joining a stream of traffic from another lane or road, such as when an entry lane joins a motorway or when two traffic lanes become one. The merging driver must observe surrounding traffic, signal when required and enter an appropriate gap safely.
Drivers already in the continuing traffic lane should remain alert to merging vehicles and avoid unnecessarily preventing them from joining. Special zipper-merging rules may apply when traffic is heavily congested and a lane ends.
Who has priority when you enter a California highway?
Traffic already on the highway. Merge only into a safe gap.
Should you normally stop on a California highway entrance ramp?
No. DMV advises against stopping unless absolutely necessary.
How should you cross several lanes after joining a California highway?
Signal and cross one lane at a time, checking blind spots each time.
