When merging onto the highway, what is the preferred strategy?

The preferred strategy when merging onto a highway is to accelerate to match the speed of highway traffic. This approach helps ensure a smooth and safe merge into the flow of traffic. When drivers keep pace with the speed of the vehicles already on the highway, it reduces the likelihood of congestion and accidents that can occur if someone tries to merge at too low a speed or if they come to a stop to wait for a gap.

Matching the speed of highway traffic allows for a more efficient merging process, as it minimizes disruptions to the existing traffic flow and allows drivers behind you to maintain their speed. This helps maintain safety on the highway, enabling faster and more predictable traffic patterns.

In contrast, stopping to wait for a gap can create confusion and increase the risk of accidents as it can lead to sudden stops on the entrance ramp, where other vehicles may not expect to see a stationary car. Using your horn may not effectively communicate your intentions to other drivers and could be viewed as aggressive. Merging at a slower speed can be seen as overly cautious and may also hinder the overall flow of traffic, creating additional hazards for yourself and other drivers.