How to Merge onto a Freeway, Motorway, or Interstate

[@hkharryfunk]

I watched a bunch of your videos and they were super helpful. Passed my Class 5 road test today! Thanks for the great content!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi hsp - that is *_TREMENDOUS_* news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎 PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate? See this vid too my friend: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aGLLc31qbtiLY9U

[@Conmanthompson2]

@@smartdrivetest About that season of traffic

[@traceygregory7365]

Congratulations to all those beginner drivers who receive their license. Learning how to drive safely doesn't stop after you receive your license. I personally took about 10 more lessons after I received my license with a driving school. Of just highway driving learning how to keep proper distance between cars on the highway. Merging, changing lanes, sharing the interstate/highway with tracker trailers. Learning how to at high speeds with traffic it very intimidating at first and fear will creep in your head. My suggestion to that is just say a prayer before you get on the road and God will protect you. This tutorial by Rick August is great and it helps me out a lot. I hope this was helpful message for all the new drivers out there... Remember to say to yourself. YOU CAN DO THIS...

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Tracey Gregory - Thank you for your comment and encouragement for other learning drivers. And you are most welcome, and YES, you can do it! If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@neeoilacl.2683]

Thank you!!! Yes! God will protect!

[@Angel_Peg]

Amen

[@easilyoffended7772]

Not everyone can afford a car let alone lessons so when we drive on the highway its whenever we can...And that's the only way to learn for some.

[@jewelthompson4210]

I didn't know that driving schools offered lessons on highway driving.

[@bikup3]

I myself have stopped on an acceleration lane as I had no choice. I made the mistake of not adjusting my speed to highway limit early enough. And when I finally decided to speed up I found myself stuck on the acceleration lane parallel to a huge truck not to mention I had another person and two toddlers in the car with me. God was definitely with me on this one. I am a new driver and struggle with indecisiveness on the road which is dangerous. However watching these videos and taking extra driving lessons helps a lot. I am confident I will become an excellent driver.

[@atanner85]

I watch all your videos. I am still terrified of driving on highways. I'm 30 years old and have only done it twice. I map out back roads to every where I need to go. My husband says I need to face my fear and just go for it. I'm afraid of causing an accident :( I am so anxious about getting on and off the highways :(

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi atanner85 - thank you for your comment and query. First, I would like to you to stop...whatever you're doing...and smile. Next, I want you to say, "I am doing awesome." Just the fact that you are driving is courageous. Your fear is real, and the fact that you are working toward overcoming it is amazing - I applaud you. Now, know that you're not going to cause an accident. Crashes are not just one driver - there are a whole bunch of other motorists out there that will help you if you give them lots of notice and request that they help you - ask via your signals. As well, have a look at this video - it may help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fYO7aJyNaa-kmdU Remember to breath, and keep driving. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@Camarophobic]

To add to what Smart Drive Test said... I'd advise you to get exposed to driving on the highway in small, but progressive, steps. First, get on the highway with someone you trust by your side at a time of day when traffic is lightest and move up from there until you are able to drive alone on a congested highway. Hope this helps whoever is facing such a problem.

[@Calvaire1]

same 😭. I have to drive somewhere far this weekend and the backroad option is scary as well (narrow roads no lights)..... I have to take the highway. I might just cancel and not go 😅🤣

[@apachette07]

I totally understand. I'm 34 and have never driven in big cities. I'm scared to death. But after watching this video, I feel as though I can try it.

[@ryans413]

To be honest highways are safer then city driving cause everyone’s going the same way no and it’s easy to pass most slower drivers but I can understand some might not be comfortable but you must learn to drive on highways unless you never want to leave your city

[@SE45CX]

Some onramps have nostalgic value to me. Because many are still there from the time when I was a kid and my mom used to drive there with me in the car. And these onramps I still use when I drive there myself as an adult.

[@MichaelDavis-zu2ko]

Good explanation of normal acceleration lanes, but I'd like to see an explanation of how to merge in OTHER merging situations; lane closing, exit only, road work ahead, a very popular exit, etc: other situations where a lane may end, traffic is already at speed, and there is ample distance, maybe 2 or more miles to merge, and how that changes the merging situation...

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Michael Davis - Thank you for your comment and great suggestion. I have added that to the list of videos to make my friend. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@TheChubbyDoe]

My driving school lessons were terrible, I did all my learning here! Thanks so much for taking the time to help people like me- I have a license but am too inexperienced to feel comfortable driving!

[@connormouser4827]

I’m a new driver, and I must admit I have done stoped on an acceleration lane. I wanted to look up to help me out with this! Thank you!!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Connor Mouser - you are most welcome my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@eligibleemail640]

Thank you for your great videos! I passed my License test today with flying colors! While I wasn't tested on Freeways, I've been studying and watching for videos for a while now to prepare. I highly recommend your videos to anyone learning to drive! Many thanks!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Clock work - that is awesome news! Thanks so much for letting us know, and for your stellar endorsement. I’m sure you’re planning a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best with your newly earned freedom. If there’s anything further we can do drop us a note. All the best, Cheers Rick. PS - where in the world did you pass your test, & are you planning any road trips to celebrate?

[@dt3306]

i completed and passed g test thanks to following your tips, passed g2 in 2018 from ur vids as well and want to say thanks for the knowledge ur sharing. gives everyone the opportunity to learn as you would if u were to take driving school, and as someone who can’t really afford driving school people like you give us chance to learn. thank you.

[@ktmyamaha01]

What if there is no space, the lane you need to merge into is full and no one is letting you in, and the accelerating lane is ending with no shoulder? You'd have to stop then, right?

[@jnmaher]

ktmyamaha01 That is a great question and you bring up another issue with this scenario. No-one can say that you can't stop or slow down drastically in this situation based on the way many drivers drive. you may have to slow down or stop because "the flow of traffic" is not acting in a safe manner. One thing this video does not teach (no-one does, yet), is how to HELP others merge, because, you are right, a lot of times drivers that are in the lane being merged into are no help, and the last thing you want to do is jump in too close in front of another driver regardless of the disregard that they are treating you with. Remember, when you are merging and there are drivers in front of you that are merging as well, keep a 3-second following distance to them. This should not be about 'hurrying up" to get on to the roadway. It should be about keeping your distance and allowing others more than enough room" to do what they need to do. Our current driver training seems to cater to the impatient driver, but this doesn't mean that we have to be impatient as well. We have to teach that the drivers occupying the lane being merged into, if they can't move out of that lane, need to take more responsibility and stop thinking that it is NOT their responsibility to help other drivers merge. This requires forward thinking/awareness/patience. Be Safer. Jeff All Wheel Driving Academy

[@ktmyamaha01]

That is what I was thinking, but thought I'd ask anyways. A lot of drivers these days almost seem to not let you over on purpose. This does answer my question, though. Thank you

[@jnmaher]

You're very welcome.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi ktmyamaha01 - apologies for the late response. Do note that if you stop on an acceleration you increase the risk of being rear-ended exponentially. One of the major problems that drivers have with merging is that s/he fails to communicate effectively. Signalling early on the on-ramp and continuing to signal on the acceleration lane is the key to successful merging. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@jnmaher]

But you have to remember the times where you ARE doing everything correctly and still encounter this. I think this is what this person is asking. YES, KEEP YOUR SIGNAL ON ---- UNTIL YOU ARE ENTIRELY IN THE NEW LANE. GREAT POINT! The last thing you want to do is just jump in front of somebody who is not paying attention. Don't fear being rear ended, go in with the idea that the worst will happen and then put yourself in the position of a driver following another driver in the merge lane (keep your 3 seconds) and also as a driver in the lane being merged into ... how would you handle those positions? Don't allow yourself to feel rushed and pressured. This is the point we have to train drivers on. Don't close the following distance or do something risky just because of the possibility of being rear-ended. You will have less chance of being rear-ended if you leave room in front of you while you merge (if their is traffic ahead of you) and give yourself and any vehicle in the lane being merged into, some options. You want space to think. I would say we have a problem with, both, drivers not paying attention and not signaling properly. Be Safer Jeff All Wheel Driving Academy

[@jnmaher]

I like this video. It is well explained, clear and concise, however, it only explains this from one vantage point. The 'other' vantage point from which to view merging, is from the driver that is in the lane being merged into. In other words, drivers need to learn how to help other drivers merge in front of them. You cannot always move over to help a merging driver so you need to learn to adjust to them. You can talk all day about "getting up to speed". but not everyone can and we need to teach drivers, experienced and inexperienced, how to help these slower vehicles merge. Following distance should be your biggest concern. If there is a driver in front of you, that is your burden, if there is a driver behind you, you are their burden. Your following distance as you merge (if there is a vehicle in front of you), and your following distance you allow to the vehicle merging in front of you, is of the utmost importance as far as safety goes. Once again, it is not about getting up to speed to get out of the way of other drivers. When we talk like this, we make those "other" drivers sound as if they have no brain to make adjustments to the unexpected, or SLOWER vehicles. All drivers need to learn how to adjust to the unexpected. Because a driver "stops" in the acceleration lane is not a guarantee that a collision will occur UNLESS the driver behind is ill-equipped to handle this. In other words, what have they been told? THEY can't stop in the merge lane, therefore, noon we else will? When you stick to just one element, or one side of the story, you have bad habits that result from it. And in my estimation, experienced drivers who were trained that they have to "get up to speed" and that there are no two ways about it, they usually handle those who don't do that, in a dangerous way. They don't HELP them, they just bear down on them as they try to merge or make it very difficult.We need to teach drivers that it is okay to decelerate a little bit for safety to help someone else or to make a situation safer. I have seen enough people scratch their heads trying to figure how, with all of this training, we still have collisions that are ridiculous in nature. We have to cool it with the "go with the flow' nonsense and equip all drivers with a wider understanding of the possibilities, because all we have now are, mostly drivers, who do not know how to react to drivers who do something that THEY were told that drivers are not supposed to do. We can do so much better. Be Safer. Slow down for safety. Get put to speed, sure, but keep your following distance and remember if there is a driver merging or changing lanes in front of you, help them out. Give them "more than enough room". We need to be smarter drivers. Jeff All Wheel Driving Academy

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Jeff - apologies for the late response. Thank you for your detailed comment. A couple of videos that talk to you points that you raise: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gZvNf4eajcxmeMk and kzbin.info/www/bejne/gZ-slId_p7p4fZY. And thank you for giving me an idea for another video. I should have it up here in a day or two. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@jnmaher]

Thanks Rick. I wish I had the ability to record my own training videos. Soon, I hope.Yours are very professional looking. Great job. Looking forward to the new video! Jeff Maher All Wheel Driving Academy

[@crruan1142]

I wish I had met you when I was a learner. Great comment.

[@coolguypravara]

This is the best comment. The too agree with you and this is least common sense one should have. Always teaching the drivers to accelerate and merge but no point on how to allow the drivers who are trying to merge in. Today I faced a similar situation where I was not allowed to merge in by a rash driver and I got the total blame on me which made me confusing and terrify as I am a new driver. The same thing happens when we have to exit the highways when we have no gap to get a spot in right lane and exit is too close.

[@crruan1142]

Great videos, btw. Once, in ATL, I saw a driver trying to back up from an exit ramp onto the expressway. It was one of the most scariest moments as a driver in my life. Good thing I wasn't behind them...

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi CR Ruan - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. Yes, some drivers do some weird manoeuvres on freeways. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@jacobholgate4399]

2:16 "People are...going to assist you in merging onto the freeway." Ideally, yes. Maybe people will switch lanes to the center or left lane, but I don't think I've ever seen someone slow down to let someone in. I live in Portland, but even here, people are a-holes on the freeway. Basically you stomp on the gas and it's a drag race until there's an opening. I will say this (more in general about passing, but it applies to merging too): something I learned from truckers - If it looks like the person passing me or merging is hesitant to get over, or I want to signal to them that they are clear to get in front of me, I will turn off my headlights (so only the parking lights are on) for one second and then back on. This is not to be confused with someone flashing their high beams. That means something totally different.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Jacob Holgate - Thank you for your comment. And yes, some people are not able to get over. In my experience, if people can't get over, they will slow. Often slowing is only a couple of miles an hour and is not noticeable. If the person on the ramp in accelerating aggressively, and the person on the freeway lets of the throttle just slightly, it makes all the difference in the world. And yes, truck drivers and other professionals will turn off their lights momentarily to tell others that they can move back in front. I'm not sure I've seen that applied to merging, but it should work to communicate that intention. This video may help to my friend: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gZ-slId_p7p4fZY All the best, Cheers Rick

[@frehduhrik]

Thanks so much for your videos. They have helped with my anxiety the day before my test. Your videos gave me the confidence and I was able to pass. I subscribed and appreciate all the knowledge you've shared! You really make it easy to understand and show in great detail what to do to be a good driver!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Frederick Ortega - that is a awesome news. Thank you for letting us know and for your stellar compliment. I'm sure you had a big celebration, and it is well deserved. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. Enjoy your newly earned freedom. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@quela1551]

Frederick Ortega t

[@divyas6124]

Thanks a lot!! I got lot of confidence after seeing your videos. I was so afraid to drive on road. I waited 2 years to learn driving with that fear. After seeing your videos, really I got confidence and able to drive in traffic and learnt driving in 3 weeks :) 👍.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Divya S - Thank you for your fabulous comment. And you are most welcome. Congratulations to you for your determination and work that allowed you to learn how to drive and get behind the wheel with confidence. 🚗 If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@sanjeetkumar-oq1bp]

Divya S i have class 4 license for 3 years, but i always watch smart drive test videos just refresh and drive safely

[@abdikadirsodal3855]

I requested free way entering when i start accelerating it defeculty plz explain me again thanks my name is Abdikadir from niagara

[@alicemwamikazi8325]

Yes I stopped on acceleration lane today.fortunately was Sunday early morning with no traffic.i was checking to death.was my first time to drive by myself on high way

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Alice Mwamikazi - Thank you for your honesty. We're happy to hear that you're okay and nothing came of the incident other than a lesson learned. Drop us a note if we can help further. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@aesmaeilig]

I just got my license recently and came here after an incident merging two days ago. I was merging onto a three-lane highway that was a cloverleaf. It was rush hour and i couldnt see an opening to merge so i ended up stopping in a panic, not realizing i was blocking the exit - this was a cloverleaf ramp after all - and got honked at from the poor people behind me. I ended up driving past the exit onto the shoulder of the road then accelerated, pedal to the floor, from a dead stop to get in, and barely got in. I was so ashamed. I came here to see what I should have done. This and a nice reddit thread explained what i did wrong. I didn't have my turning signal on early enough (wow!) signaling i was coming in, and I really need to accelerate to the flow faster. That bit of communication was huge. I almost caused an accident. I will know now what to do so thank you for this video!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi aesmaeilig - Thank you for your story - it serves as a great information for other smart drivers. It's always good to hear that drivers get out of a tight spot without a crash and only a lesson learned. And you are most welcome for the video. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@MZy589]

People like you are the reasons you tube is awesome. You can search any random thing and here you have it!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi SweetnSavory - apologies for the late response. Thank you for the comment and compliment. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@djbanizza]

In my experience, if you don't merge in the first moment you feel it's safe to do so, cars in the acceleration lane behind you might merge before you and block your entry if they are faster.

[@alexsalvara9958]

I'm new here. It is a most simple and most understanding lesson of the freeway entry I saw on you tube and from my personal advisers. Thank you so much. Greeting from a new beginner from Australia.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Alex Salvara - you are most welcome my friend. And welcome to the smart driver community. If we can help further drop us a note. All the very best, Cheers Rick

[@sparklaodicea6885]

I saw a car one day got blocked by a truck on his left as he matched the speed of the truck, getting him trapped in the acceleration lane for quite some time. I gave him space behind and he figured out he must let the truck by before he could get in. My advise is if possible, slow down a little (just to see a gap) so the truck overtakes you and enter behind him as fast as possible to avoid getting trapped until the end of the acceleration lane. If you match the speed of the truck, it's almost like you're immobilized in that lane.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi CapturEmotion - Thank you for your comment. And you are absolutely correct. And you did the professional move and let off a bit to create a gap for the merging vehicle. One of the techniques I tell drivers is that they have to look for the gap from the time they get on the on-ramp. And as they approach the acceleration lane, be heading for that gap. You, no doubt, helped out the driver because you created a gap where one didn't exist simply by slowing slightly. You are definitely a smart driver my friend! All the best, Cheers Rick

[@9000wind]

Yesterday I had a pick up truck that speed up on purpose to block me from merging when it was my turn to merge in rush hour. He shows me a bat right after. This is a very helpful video but sometimes drivers will prevent you from merging on purpose.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi maria snyder - Thank you for your comment. And yes, that happens. But when that happens just let off the throttle and merge in behind the vehicle. Let the "knucklehead" go off and have his/her crash somewhere else. This video may help too: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fnKlgYN_is18f6c&index=12 We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@kittyfairy]

plz redo this video in realistic traffic situations. this is made way too easy with barely any traffic in your video

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi 畢凱蒂 - Thank you for your comment. And this video may help out my friend: kzbin.info/www/bejne/j6i6lWucgducnpI If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@mtk4279]

What country are you in?

[@maribelperez520]

@@mtk4279 canada

[@pureshot902]

Im watching this video out of frustration of "early mergers". I just go around them and casually merge at the end. I dont get whats so hard about it. People keep saying "in theory it works" it works for me everytime

[@MuzammilKhan-xx7kc]

Hey Man. This video really helps me today on passing my G test. Very briefly explain in this video every step to merge on a highway. Thanks

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Muzammil Khan - that is *_TERRIFIC_* news! Would you stop over at Smart Drive Test, register your success and enter the draw for the $100 Fuel Card - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you are having a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study & practice. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎 PS - where did you go for your first solo trip to celebrate there in Ontario? See this vid too my friend: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aGLLc31qbtiLY9U

[@Fianchetto2011]

Great clear instruction videos! Thx! Helped me to get my license back in the days. Unfortunately there is also some bad tendencies in traffic-culture. One of them is that people do not necessarily let you to the highway from the acceleration lane. This type of "shouldering" is obviously dangerous when they sometimes even speed up to create a blockade. Maybe you could give some instructions for those situations as well?

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Fianchetto2011 - you are most welcome my friend. Have a look at this vid: kzbin.info/www/bejne/m5-lepKkf52rp6c All the best, Cheers Rick

[@kempo_95]

Most importantly though, don't be scared when merging. Our when driving in general. No need to take risks but you shouldn't be scared while driving.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi kempo 95 - Thank you for your comment. And you are correct my friend. However, for some, driving at speed presents a real challenge. f there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@christineboutin4971]

Thank you Smart Driver. I have scheduled my first highway lesson for next Monday. You video made me better understand how merging works. Thank you!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Christine - thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're glad that the information proved useful. Good luck on your first highway lesson - it's going to be exciting. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@m3tasc0ut]

What if you live in Florida, and you *can't* find a gap because traffic is heavy, and people here are horrible and want to make sure they speed up just enough to know they will not be cut off? Because that's happened to me many times, and it really is almost like these people want to kill you.

[@chelseadefaz5962]

yes this happens in Vancouver, BC Canada sometimes. I'm going for my full license soon and feel nervous about merges because it seems like people just want to kill you!

[@smilingtulip8126]

I recently moved to Florida and I'm absolutely petrified to get on the expressway because it is so busy. Drivers on the expressway do not have the courtesy to move over like they did in my middle part of Illinois. It's now given me a fear of driving on the expressway and I I am super afraid to enter so I'm trying to go all the back roads as I can. I have many people coming to visit and I need to get on the expressway to pick them up from the airport so my poor husband has to drive. Kind of feel like I need to go to a driving school again because I'm literally shaking when I get behind my car. Traffic is so high in Tampa regardless of the expressway and I am in complete fear when I drive. I need to get over this, I used to drive to Chicago every day and park downtown and parallel park but now I'm a basket case.

[@DYLANJJK94]

FL people especially are like that Indeed.

[@ronfromthebk9681]

Hey Rick. got my license. But still learning how to merge. Still using my drivers instructor. Did a lesson. My driver. said one more lesson. Then I will be fine. 😊. Thanks for the videos. 🖒

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Ronald - that is a awesome news. Thank you for letting us know. I'm sure you had or are having big celebration, and it is well deserved. Have a look at this video too: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gqGomH2pj6iLbdk If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best with your newly earned freedom. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@zanebain]

I want to thank you for all of your videos. They helped me to pass my NY state road test. Keep up your excellent work!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Zanebrain - thank you for your great comment. And for sharing your news of your success - that is awesome. Be sure to take some time out to celebrate. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Enjoy your newly earned freedom. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@michaelangelo9240]

Hey. Great video. I remember an unpleasant situation happened once to me. I was accelerating and about to merge into the traffic on a three lanes highway. The driver on the right lane noticed me and slowed down to create a gap, but then another gentleman decided to change lanes from middle lane to the right one to take advantage of the same gap I was trying to use. He did that at the exact moment when I started to merge. He hardly even signaled while my signal was on for a while. He had to brake hard and pass in between my car and the car behind me, then he changed the lane to the right (to the acceleration lane), he had to brake hard again and merge, change lane to the middle lane, drive fast next to my car and give me the dirty look. Sigh.

[@patriciabrown8915]

Thanks for the video i am going for my G license soon , merging on the freeway always being a problem, but i have the confident i will get it this time.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Patricia Brown - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. With a bit of practice, we're certain you will master this driving skill. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@LiterallyDJ]

Thanks to your videos and some time on back roads, I comfortably got on the freeway for the first time today! It's only my fifth time out in a car today (not counting slow-maneuver-only drives), and I'm already out on freeways. So excited, your videos are such a great resource for new drivers! :)

[@smartdrivetest]

Hey DJ - that is awesome news!! Congratulations on your great progress. And thank you for your compliment & flattering words. Keep us informed as to your progress - you're doing awesome. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@nofavors]

What if there is traffic parallel to you on the left lane while you are trying to accelerate and merge? You still merge and crash ? What if they dont make room for you fast enough?

[@melodieandante3409]

Right! I have the same question...

[@JesseMgala]

@@melodieandante3409 I experienced that twice in the last 4 months. I had to stop at the end of the ramp/acceleration lane or else I would have created an accident.

[@Esyy69]

If you don't have room drive on the shoulder if there is one

[@billybob6604]

Jesus don’t stop driving

[@droneboy5415]

happens a lot to me with the semi trucks i just drive on the shoulder until its clear

[@jaykilborn2508]

It happened to me and it put me in a difficult situation where I had to go from zero to highway speed in heavy traffic. I floored it and hoped for the best.

[@areeeka8916]

so I recently turned 18, and with that comes new vehicle freedom that I didn’t have the year prior. Well, my friends and I organized a trip to tennessee, and I’m terrified of driving on interstate lol. So now I have to practice but the merging scares the crap out of me.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi leJINdary - Apologies for the late response. How's the merging going my friend? This video may help you too: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gV7Ih4N-bN2msKM If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@maryamoasis7632]

Thank you so much for your informative video, you encouraged me to to to highway today , and I was praying you all the time.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Maryam Oasis - Thank you for your comment. Congratulations my friend - you inspire other smart drivers when you take on those things in life that challenge you. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@imranurrehman7879]

Smart man and smart tips for merging lane; thanks

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Imran Ur Rehman - Thank you for your comment. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@Rizimar]

I've seen people stop in the acceleration lane on several occasions (I do a LOT of driving). In those cases, if there's time, I'd honk my horn until they'd go. But some times were close calls where the stops were so sudden that I'd swerve around and pass them. It really is unexpected. Thankfully, out of the thousands and thousands of times that I have entered a freeway, this happened probably fewer than 10 times

[@douglasghiz1287]

Any drivers that are safe drivers, Please make sure you are not the victim of an unsafe driver because there are people who drive dangerously reckless. Do drive around the speed limit & not too fast or too slow.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Douglas Ghiz - Thank you for your encouragement to other smart drivers my friend. And yes, I tell drivers to keep up with the traffic flow. And if you're driving slower than the traffic flow, stay in the slow lane on a multi-lane highway. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@jakeblack2439]

Even watching the video make me nervous! I used to slow down on the acceleration lane and there were times when the driver behind me did not like it 😂

[@strangebuds9603]

Thank you so much for this video! My towns driving test doesn't include merging and this was something I was wondering about. Have a great day!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi NightFlyer19 - thank you for your comment. You are most welcome. I'm glad the video was helpful. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@nguyenvietdung9281]

Great teaching. Thank you Dr.!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Nguyen Viet Dung - you are most welcome my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@claraebeh]

So I failed my G test yesterday and I can't help but feel bad because I have driven on that highway lot of times but didn't know I was doing it wrongly on the acceleration lane and that was my major fail😢😢 The MOT said I should have been on the acceleration lane till the end. Truth is that I never had to do that before unless there was major traffic, because normally I will just accelerate a little on the on ramp and just merge. Silly me!! She also said I slowed down a bit while merging, maybe because I was nervous. Ahh and she also said I didn't look left, right and left enough for her to pass me. I really feel bad about this.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Clara Ebeh - Thank you for your for letting us know. Sorry to hear about your unsuccessful attempt. We're confident that you'll get your license on the next attempt. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick Have a look at this vid first: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qYi1hIF4Zs6cq7M And then for merging see: kzbin.info/www/bejne/m5-lepKkf52rp6c

[@killking033]

ru red from that's 70 show?

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Kill King033 - that thinking is gaining momentum! I'll have to learn to say "a foot in your ass!" If there's anything further we can do, drop us a note. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@HotPepperLala]

lmao

[@XxBeyBladexX]

LOL!

[@gabrielamontenegro8090]

Semi’s scare me and finding a gap at times is difficult when cars don’t move or slow down.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Gabriela Montenegro - Thank you for your comment. I know that it's a bit scary with larger vehicles on the freeway. But know that you have to get your vehicle up to the speed of the traffic on the highway. And if there's a big vehicle, it's often best to pull in behind that larger vehicle in you're beside it on the acceleration lane. Drop us a note if we can help further. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@lukeshedid650]

I was the person who stopped in the acceleration lane because I had 3 semis to my right and none of them yielded or helped in any way so, my gap wasn’t big enough. I’d love to see a video made about what to do if there is no available gap on a congested freeway with unhelpful drivers.

[@smartdrivetest]

I'll put that video on the list for you. Always best to be picking the space that you're going to merge into before you get onto the acceleration lane. That way you can adjust your speed so that you get out onto the highway safely. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@mezykin]

you are driving into a spectacularly beautiful landscape. thank you for this video.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Mez Hossain - you are most welcome my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@madar805]

Excellent demonstration for merging to Hi-way. Thanks

[@shellataj1727]

Please give all info about yalow sign different time flashing or not flashing.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Shella taj - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your question. Do you have an intersection you could send me the address so I can give you specific information? All the best, Cheers Rick

[@lauragresham]

Yes, all the time. We deliver big truck all over the USA and it seams that no one knows how to do this. When you're in a big truck you need to accelerate to get in front of the truck. Please and thank you

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Laura Bartolomey - Thank you for your comment. Yes, it seems that a number of people have difficulty merging onto a freeway. I think some times that they are thinking they're going too fast, but that just a thought. I think in most cases, they just weren't taught properly. Stay safe, and all the best, Cheers Rick

[@brandon6541]

Great video, this will help very soon😁

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Brandon B - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@friencheetah]

Hi there, I just had my first highway lesson yesterday, and even though my instructor said I did a good job, I was terrified. It feels really scary going 100km/hr and merging at those speeds. I have another lesson tomorrow and I'm dreading it. How can I overcome this fear?

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Chicken Wings - You must really like pub specials when wings are on special!? 😀 How did the second lesson go? Look farther down the road and signal early. By looking farther down the road, you will be able to discern other road users, and road sign better. Pick your spot to merge into as you're coming out onto the acceleration lane, not when you're on the acceleration lane. If other traffic sees that you're up to speed, most often they will slow or change lanes to facilitate you moving out onto the highway. And the way you can overcome this fear is through visualization and practice. The more you do something successfully, the less fear you have. And visualize yourself doing it successfully. As well, practice lane merges in the city at lower speeds - that will help you with lane merges at higher speeds. Also, have a look at these videos: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gqGomH2pj6iLbdk and kzbin.info/www/bejne/gZ-slId_p7p4fZY If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@friencheetah]

Smart Drive Test thank you so much Rick! I will take this into consideration for sure, thanks for the advice!

[@ihackapple2525]

He said if you have to put it to the floor 🤣🤣

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi iHack Apple - Thank you for your comment. Yes my friend: "pedal to the metal" and "get er' goin'" so you can get up to road speed before hitting the freeway. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@rupamroy3931]

Quick question, what if you match the highway speed and there’s a car on the lane you’re about to merge? Like, the car on the left and you on the right are going both the same speed, thus no opening. I believe this would be a rare occasion, but let’s say it happened this one time...What do you do?

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Rupam Roy - Thank you for your comment and query. As you're coming out on the on-ramp you want to be looking for your spot, or gap that you're going to merge into. If there is a vehicle there, it's not your spot. Adjust your speed so that you either get in front of the vehicle or move in behind - whichever is going to work for you. In driving you're always working the throttle in response to the changing road environment and some times that means going faster or slower. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@kempo_95]

Also, a lot of people move over from the second to the first lane if they see someone trying to merge.

[@XempireX18]

what if you are almost at the end of the acceleration lane and there is a car beside you and you can't merge?

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi XempireX18 - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your comment and query. As you're coming out on the on-ramp you have to be looking for your gap. Get your signal on as soon as you get on the on-ramp to alert other drivers to your intentions. As you're moving along and have the vehicle near the speed of the flow of traffic, adjust your speed to match the gap. If you get to the end of the ramp and there is a vehicle, then you misjudged the gap and haven't adjusted your speed accordingly. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@marklozano8388]

@@smartdrivetest ..and you're screwed.Cheers

[@bigdaddy3030]

@@smartdrivetest ya didnt answer the question, what do you do if theres no gap? and you are at the end of the acceleration lane?

[@rylandavis2976]

@@bigdaddy3030 you slow down until you find a gap. Never reach the end of an acceleration lane without finding a gap and coming over.

[@carfonali5279]

@@smartdrivetest thank you handsome man

[@user-cy7ig2sc9e]

You mentioned cars slowing down or moving over for someone merging. When merging onto a highway the merging vehicle shall not hinder the flow of traffic. If you merge and it forces someone to slow down or change lanes you have just interrupted the flow of traffic. Also if there is a lot of traffic if you need to slow down or stop before the end of the acceleration lane so once an opening comes available you’re able to still utilize the acceleration lane.

[@JahTsir]

I've noticed that a bunch of people online think that the interstate traffic must yield to cars entering. That would cause so many phantom traffic jams

[@Earlbein]

This gentleman is a very good instruction, I thoroughly appreciate his videos, and I've learned a lot, HOWEVER,,,what I want to see is, a video shot, showing someone attempting a merge into, HEAVY FAST MOVING, RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC, to put to bed the question of "you should never slow down or stop so, what should you do and, how do you do it?", Mr. August, anyone else?

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Spency Chestang - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your comment and query. I'm going to Seattle this week and will see if I can get that video done for you my friend. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@Earlbein]

Thank you sir, every moment of your time & expertise is hugely appreciated, continued success, and God bless!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Spency Chestang - apologies for the late response. You are most welcome my friend. Thank you for your encouragement. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@Sixalienasa]

Last Sunday I had the experience of a friend stopping at the end of the acceleration lane, it was hairy for a moment, but we survived, it is not a nice occurrence.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Aidan Stewart - Thank you for your comment. Happy to hear that you're okay. Yes, that would be a hair raising experience for sure my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@hiimchris9464]

Two questions: 1.From 3:23 to 3:35 you stated that you're staying in the acceleration lane until the very end. Say there is no vehicle in the lane you're trying to change into and it's safe to switch over, can you make the early switch before the acceleration lane ends? or do you have to stay in the acceleration lane all the way through? 2. Say there is just too much ongoing traffic that is preventing you from being able to merge into the lane you're trying to get into and you're almost at the end of the acceleration lane. Can you slow down and let all the cars pass through first before switching over?

[@abhishekjee919]

Hi Rick. Just an idea. You could capture the entire process of exiting via an on-ramp, through the cloverleaf road all the way to the acceleration lane with a drone camera. That would look smashing and very informative, though you would need someone to assist you with that.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Abhishek Jee - That is an awesome idea. We're moving forward, and the drone in on the list of toys to buy. In the interim, have a look at this updated video my friend: kzbin.info/www/bejne/m5-lepKkf52rp6c If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@abhishekjee919]

@@smartdrivetest sure thing. And if you have a slot available, I would love to work with you folks.

[@DailyMyChildhood]

This is a really useful video.Thanks for Sharing👍

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Daily my childhood - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@gagansomal5998]

Thnku so much... its really helpful for new drivers

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi gagan somal - Apologies for the late response. You're most welcome my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@bonholio0o]

He made some good points, you're not supposed to stop but at the same time you're supposed to "yield" to ongoing traffic instead of driving like cowboy. His instruction will get you killed. If he's driving further south in big cities like LA he's toasted. This demo doesn't have enough brutal traffic to demonstrate the danger. I almost got killed today doing exactly what he said to accelerate while driving like a self-entitled brat expecting everyone to let me in. I have about 100m to merge while 6 dingle-berries decided it was not cool to shift into left open lane which jammed me onto the dirt. Phuckas lol it was my fault, I shoulda slowed down until the 6 back-to-back cars gotten out of the way and then slip into the next gap behind them. It's hard man, it was about 11PM when this happened. I can't see a thing. I had my signal on the whole entire time when I first entered the on-ramp. They just don't give a ship here in CA. The moral of the story is you need to *****YIELD******, slow the f down until you see a gap, don't expect the other dingle-berries to yield for you.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Abandon - Thank you for your comment. And we're happy to hear that you are okay. You are correct that you have to be prepared to yield. I apologize if I didn't communicate that point clearly. As you stated, the merging driver has to be prepared to give way; s/he can't simply bulldoze his or her way into traffic. As you stated, you must have your signal on from the time that you enter the on-ramp and all the way out onto the road which you're merging. And as you're coming out, you have to find a gap into which you're going to merge. As you're accelerating, you're looking for your gap and adjusting your speed to merge into that gap. As you said, the cars were not allowing you to move over and you should have let off the throttle and move in behind. I'm going to clarify the points you raised in tonight's live stream. Again, we're relieved to hear that you weren't involved in a crash. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@ArsonistArborist]

Matching the speed of traffic is not "driving like a self-entitled brat." The lanes are literally called acceleration lanes because they are designed for accelerating up to speed

[@rcr81]

Some of these comments are killing me, you can't tell me that traffic is bumper to bumper with NO car length gaps that you can merge into. People think they need a 2 city block space to merge in to or something, you don't IF you're running at the speed of traffic...now if you stop or slow way down...you do.

[@EddieLeal]

@@rcr81Well, you're not always going to have that ideal scenario where you can find a spot to merge into and that's what some folks are trying to point out.

[@EddieLeal]

Seen some on ramps with yield signs here in Florida.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi E LEAL - Thank you for your comment. Those signs reinforce that the onus of responsibility when merging onto the interstate or highway is on the merging vehicle. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@shellataj1727]

I am gona be tiger after all u video's. I tell u when becoming miss wonderful behind the wheel..u are sweet hearth thank u..

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Shella taj - Thank you for your compliment. You're going to be awesome! All the best, Cheers Rick

[@goldenboyi1989]

No big deal about stopping on acceleration lane, things happen, world is not perfect, I have seen it happen infront of me, I don't mind, lower my speed, and I have done it while learning-THE WORLD IS NOT PERFECT-THINGS HAPPEN

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Barney - thank you for your comment. Yes, because traffic is dynamic, it is important for drivers to expect the unexpected. I'm trying to educated people that they should NOT stop on accelerations lanes, however, I've been getting a lot of push back on this driving technique. But you're right, people should expect the unexpected and carry on with the day. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@poolplexer]

Merging is such a simple task. Many people just freeze up and brake which is the worst thing to do because you make it dangerous for yourself and everyone behind you now. Get up to speed quick with your directional on and you can smoothly transfer into the new lane. Its simple !!!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Slap Boogz - thank you for your comment and information. And you are correct, when all the pieces are in place it is simple. And the key to doing it successfully is signalling. If you signal, in most case other drivers will help you out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@Soul56293]

Slap Boogz I did that this morning. Entered a freeway going fast on the acceleration lane, put my blinker on to gon on a lane left and someone honked their horn at me. Some people are just not to considerate.

[@orchidsrosesg_disone4431]

So educational These are ! Thx…..right now I have to bike everywhere due to brain fog 😶‍🌫️ thyroid low doesn’t help brain function……and i am always shoulder checking riding my bike on roads and otherwise even crossing streets.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi @orchidsrosesg_disone4431 - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@Reverseflash1819]

Got a car today so afraid when drove in the highway but the more you do the better you will get right

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi David M. - Thank you for your comment. And you are correct my friend. The more you practice, the better you become and the easier it gets. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@thomasroberts8024]

Have had to deal with the "fear of merging" people many times. I approach occupied acceleration lanes with my eyes on the type and age of the vehicle and with as much of a view of the driver as I can manage, mostly thinking what were they driving like before approaching the freeway. And if it's a guy in a Shelby Mustang or a senior citizen in a Corolla I allow either a normal gap or a larger gap between my car and them. At the same time, I note if someone is behind me, how much space he or she is leaving me. If the preceding car is that Mustang I'm ready to accelerate briskly with little fear of catching it. If the other car is at all hesitant, I will try to back my tail gunner up a bit to lower his or her expectations of a high speed entry. It's all a part of the Smith System's 2nd command, "Get the big picture." 57 years ago, leaving restaurant here in Texas, I glanced into a State Trooper's car and saw a list mounted on his dash. Aim high. Get the big picture. Keep your eyes moving. Leave yourself an out. Make sure the other person sees you. To remember these, there was All Good Kids Like Milk. Would it surprise you to know that in 64 years of LICENSED driving I've never had an accident? I emphasize it that way because I was taught to drive on our farm roads (all dirt surface) at the age of 10. Your videos are terrific and if people would just seek out and watch them all, they would save themselves imesurable grief later on. Tom in Texas.

[@samantharoberts9658]

For the most part, I know how to merge. But I almost side swept a car today on the highway because I tried turning into the next lane. I feel like I can barely see the cars behind me (my rearview mirror is fine) but it's like I'll see the cars and it doesn't register how far/close they are or where they are on the road.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Samantha Roberts - Thank you for your comment. One of the skills I might suggest is to look for your space as you coming out onto the acceleration lane. That way you're keeping your objective in front of you where it's easier to see and aim for because as you said, it takes a lot of practice to determine size and distance in a mirror. This video may provide some further help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rn20aZ-hrNuFa6c If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@AngelSouls]

Never saw anyone stop, but in Ohio, the acceleration lane is SHORT-and people don’t always let you over. What then?

[@loukmanoulkadi7525]

@@frederickjohnsen4246 well you're right but it would be easier if they let you merge in especially if the accelaration lane is short.

[@abhishekjee919]

@@loukmanoulkadi7525 i agree. Seems to me that most people don't understand and share the concept of team-work as Rick said.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Angel Souls - how's the driving going there in the Buckeye? Yes, some of the acceleration lanes are short. I've updated this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/m5-lepKkf52rp6c If other driver's can, most of the time they will help you to merge out onto the highway or freeway. If not, and there isn't a gap, leave your signal on and crowd the left side of the lane without going out of it. Almost always, someone will let off the throttle and help you with a gap. And of course, this is dependent on the fact that you have the accelerator right to the floor and are givn' it. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@DYLANJJK94]

Frederick JohnseN If the road Is set uo for shared responsibility or even not, but If you can can stay back or speed up and not hug the side, why not ? If It stops you from getting smashed into from the right and causing a serious crash and blocking one or more lanes for hours, If It’s their fault, that still won’t hell you out of a wheelchair or casket If the worst happens.

[@DYLANJJK94]

Smart Drive Test I did that today actually coming off the freeway because I would have hit the cement wall when It was on a strip of road that Is a shard responsibility In my city.

[@breezy_basil]

Thank you for the video! Can you possibly do another video of you merging in with a lot of traffic?

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi S C - Thank you for your comment and query. I'm heading to Seattle, WA this week and will try to get that done for you my friend. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@breezy_basil]

@@smartdrivetest Thank you so much!! It is much appreciated!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi S C - you are most welcome my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@j.h.8555]

I wish I could see what's in your mirrors while you do this. I have a hard time imagining what a viable gap looks like from the positions of on the ramp and in the acceleration lane, and what exactly you WANT to see in your rear/side mirrors before and while you're merging if there's decent traffic around. mostly I want to see no other cars anywhere, since I have massive anxiety about other people. I can practice in the wee hours when there's no one out, but that doesn't confront the anxiety. if I practice with people out I have to just potentially ruin the life of normal drivers all the time. it ain't great.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi J. H. - this updated video is better my friend: kzbin.info/www/bejne/m5-lepKkf52rp6c And no, you're not going to ruin the lives of normal drivers my friend. Remember the 4 most powerful words in the English language: "I CAN DO THIS!" I suspect this video will help too: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rn20aZ-hrNuFa6c It's not about lane merging, but it's about changing lanes and will show you a mirror perspective and where vehicles are in relation to yours. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@dailen9850]

do you use your mirrors and head check when merging onto the freeway?

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi d m - Thank you for your question. Yes you do my friend. Have a look at this video for further information: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gqGomH2pj6iLbdk All the best, Cheers Rick

[@bryannajordan7814]

How do you look when entering? Meaning do you look into your mirror then do a shoulder check

[@smartdrivetest]

Pick you gap as you're coming out on the on-ramp portion of the road and then aim for that gap. And yes, check your mirror and shoulder check. Drop us a note if we can help further. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@corriemess6533]

Im a learner driver and im doing this today

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Corrie Mess - Thank you for your comment. How did the merging turn out? If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@TXADEC]

Very informative video!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Texas Adult Drivers Education - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@syedtaimoorhussain4626]

What if there is another car behind you on the acceleration lane but it jumps on the highway before you, now it is not possible for you to merge on the highway because that car is speeding, at the same time you are running out of acceleration lane, what to do?

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Syed Taimoor Hussain - Thank you for your comment and query. Most of the time, if another vehicle jumps out on the highway behind you, that driver is going to move right over to the fast lane. Seldom, if at all is s/he going to stay in the slow lane. See this video at 4:53: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZoXCnmh8icSnrtE If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@MsKaylewis]

Hi. I notice you mention the 3-second rule regarding distance between cars. I would appreciate knowing how many meters and/or feet 3 seconds is. Or, could you further explain the 3 second rule. Thanks loads.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Kay Lewis - Thank you for your comment and query. And this is the video you are looking for my friend: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gJC4fIGFfK9lqrc If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@adarshguptak]

Good vid, but when u said 90, I was like "what???" till I heard Km :P :D

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Adarsh GUPTA - Thank you for your comment. And yes, when I first started making videos, I realized that the United States was my biggest audience. I quickly learned to do both kph and mph. But I'm sure it sounds funny when you're accustomed to mph. ;0) If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@jewelthompson4210]

can you use the cruise control on the ramp to get yourself adjusted to the right speed before you merge & enter the highway? Thank you.

[@smartdrivetest]

No - locate you gap and aim for the gap my friend. After you get out on the highway do you use cruise. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@karan_karan_karan]

3:21 nice save hahahha

[@melodieandante3409]

Hi Rick, do you have one video with back dash cams for merging?

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Gabriela M - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your comment. And I don't have a back dashcam for merging per se, but this video may help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rn20aZ-hrNuFa6c&list=PL0x-bChcUvwH3H8P-p2oneBQ6l7ZSQ1es&index=2 If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@sashaburton6597]

I did slow down and at one point stopped because the traffic was coming really fast. What do i do in that case?

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Sasha Burton - Thank you for your comment and query. First, put your left signal on early - that will get other drivers to help you. And as you're coming out be sure you're looking at the speed of the vehicles on the roadway onto which you're going to merge. And when you get to the acceleration lane, put the "pedal to the metal!" Accelerate hard up to the speed of the traffic flow. And be looking for a spot you're going to be aiming for. You can do it - just know that you can. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@alexbou8922]

This is super helpful

[@zhenliu1306]

thanks for your video, it's great.if there isn't enough safe gap until the end on accelerate lane, need i stop on the end or continue drive on the shoulder? another question is how much the gap is safe or enough on highway by side mirror. hope your reply.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi zhen liu - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your comment and query. DO NOT stop on the acceleration lane or the shoulder of the road. If you have to stop, you bungled the approach. As you're coming out on the on-ramp, look for your spot, and adjust your speed accordingly to meet that spot. If there is a large vehicle in the lane, you may have to put the accelerator right on the floor to get out in front of the vehicle, OR you may have to let off the accelerator to get in behind the bigger vehicle. Know that the onus of responsibility is on the merging driver, but if you signal early, the traffic on the highway will help you out as best they can; however, don't rely on that. It is still your responsibility to merge safely. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@zhenliu1306]

@@smartdrivetest thanks for your great advices and safe drive skills.another question is how to check the space is safe when merge on acceleration lane or on the freeway. sometimes i missed the chances need try again because i'm not sure the gap.hope for your reply.

[@youarestronger]

@@smartdrivetest impossible i the city to always merge so fluidly. always line ups stopped

[@I_am_milan]

Good thing I saw this first 😅

[@bayoyasmith3251]

What if is a yield sign before entering the freeway do u stop completely or do a half stop

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Bayoya Smith - Thank you for your comment and query. The YIELD sign before the freeway indicates that the onus of responsibility for merging in on the merging driver. You don't have to stop, just go, match highway speed, find your gap and merge into that gap my friend. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@bayoyasmith3251]

Thanks rick u are helping me a lot beacause i allready got my permit nd im going for my road test but im driving to get the hang of it im a really careful driver cant wait to get my lisence so i can be even more careful dont want to get those points lol i just need to practice paralerall parking bit again thank u so much i wish u the best god bless u brother💯

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Bayoya Smith - you are most welcome my friend. You're going to do awesome my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@bayoyasmith3251]

@smartdriver thanks rick hey what are the 3 options the drivers behind u have?

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Bayoya Smith - Thank you for your comment. 1) They can wait; 2) they can crash into you; 3) they can go home! If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@Sandi14.]

Hi there I get so much anxiety changing lanes especially on a highway I always feel like I’m gonna hit someone or if someone may decide to switch lanes at the same to as me from another lane… and then checking blind spot or checking mirrors at the same time don’t wanna hit anyone from behind if I’m focusing on the back to switch lanes

[@potatopotato8360]

What if you misjudge and by the time you reach highway speed, you're on a collision course with a car and you're at the end of the merge land, what do you do?

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Potato Potato - Thank you for your comment and query. You need to be looking for your space as you're coming out on the on-ramp and the acceleration lane and adjust your speed to match that gap. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@ericjc4979]

I’ve been driving for a little over 3 years now. There are still some things I’m afraid of doing while driving. One is the interstate, especially when merging. I look to my left to see any cars. If there’s so many and I feel like there’s not enough space, I may stop at the merging lane and wait until it’s clear and I think about the driver behind me.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Ericjc49 - Thank you for your comment. And please, please do NOT stop - that is simply too dangerous, and in time you'll be rear ended. You need to be looking for your gap earlier and aiming for the gap, rather than trying to find your gap when you're out on the acceleration lane. If you look for your gap earlier, and aim for that gap, I believe you're going to have better luck. If there's anything further we can help you with, drop us a note. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@georgesg1683]

To me merging on a such a high speed is a really dangerous idea and dangerous engineering. How are you supposed to share the same rude with others and try to merge when your going the same speed as they are? The whole idea is to speed up enough to merge when the people on your left are not letting you on or not slowing down and the people behind are even going faster than you are. This is the only place I feel like it’s unsafe. I’m a new driver by the way.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Angel george - Thank you for your comment. And yes, merging is daunting when you first learn to driver. As you coming out on the the on-ramp and acceleration lane, you look for your gap into which you're going to merge, and then you aim for that gap by adjusting your speed - either speed up or slow down to merge into that gap. See this video for more information: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZoXCnmh8icSnrtE If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@TheNoseyProductions]

Wouldn't it be safer to merge once you are given the space and a reasonable amount of time rather than waiting until the merging lane ends? Because people in the left lane may not notice you and change lanes into the right one without knowing that the driver in the right lane was leaving space for you. Or even if people become agitated that your quickly using there gap and decide that "you snooze you loose"? Nice video.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi TheNoseyProductions - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your comment and query. Often because of the length of the on-ramp and the acceleration lane you don't have to wait until the end. However, for many new drivers, it is safer due to the fact that they don't "put the pedal to the metal!" But if you have your signal on from the time you get on the on-ramp, other drivers are going to help you out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@brandonhalimi6693]

thank you!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Brandon Halimi - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@thewayofthemasterful]

not sure if you are in the United States or another country because you are giving kilometers per hour most highways in the United States are miles per hour you need to inform your drivers that when merging onto a freeway in the United States there is no law that makes a driver in the left lane to which you are moving into have to move

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi thewayofthemasterful - Thank you for your comment. First, following traffic laws will no more prevent a traffic crash than criminal laws prevent crime. Second, I give the speed in both mph and kph. If there's anything further we can help with, drop us a note. All the best, Cheers Rick