A 2-minute lesson from the Indiana course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
Merging smoothly with fast interstate traffic takes judgment and timing. Once you're on, firm rules govern missed exits, U-turns, stopping, and which lanes trucks may use.
Know the rule
On the on-ramp, stay to the right and build speed in the acceleration lane, then merge when your path is clear.
Drivers already on the interstate should make allowances for those entering, but drivers entering must yield the right of way to vehicles on the interstate.
You miss your exit on the interstate. Don't back up on the shoulder or cross the median. Continue to the next exit and re-enter the interstate going the other way.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
Who must yield the right of way when merging onto an interstate?
The drivers already on the interstate
Whichever driver is going faster
Neither driver needs to yield
The driver entering the interstate
Answer: The driver entering the interstate
Drivers entering an interstate must yield the right of way to vehicles already on the interstate.