What should you do to merge safely onto a road?

Merging safely onto a road requires careful consideration of the existing traffic and the need to maintain a safe flow. Waiting for a large enough gap in traffic is crucial because it allows you to enter the roadway without disrupting the flow of vehicles already in motion. By assessing the speed and proximity of other vehicles, you can ensure that you find a suitable opening that enables you to merge smoothly and safely. This practice not only enhances your safety but also the safety of other drivers on the road.

In contrast, attempting to inch into the nearest lane may not provide enough space for safe merging, risking collision. Gaining speed on the shoulder before merging can create hazardous situations as it may lead to unexpected movements when re-entering traffic without proper alignment. Merging immediately to notify others of your presence can be dangerous, as it does not consider the speed and position of surrounding vehicles, potentially leading to accidents. Therefore, ensuring a clear gap is the best approach to achieve a safe merge onto the road.