SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/drive-highway-traffic-priority

Who has priority when you merge onto a highway?

Traffic already on the highway has the right-of-way.

  1. Traffic already on the highway ✔
  2. The vehicle on the ramp
  3. Whichever vehicle is larger

Why: The entering driver must select a safe opening. Highway drivers should still cooperate when possible, but the merger cannot demand a gap.

Huh, didn't know that: A good merge fits into a gap without making through traffic brake sharply.

The dad joke
The highway was already occupied, so the ramp knocked before entering.
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References

Answer: Traffic already on the highway. The entering driver must select a safe opening. Highway drivers should still cooperate when possible, but the merger cannot demand a gap.

  1. California Driver's Handbook, Merging www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/california-driver-handbook/navigating-the-roads
    Highway traffic has the right-of-way.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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