What should a driver do when joining a motorway from a slip road?

When joining a motorway from a slip road, it is essential for a driver to match the vehicle speed to the traffic on the motorway and merge into a suitable gap. This practice is crucial for several reasons.

Firstly, motorways are designed for higher-speed traffic, and maintaining a consistent speed when merging helps prevent sudden changes in traffic flow that could lead to accidents. By accelerating on the slip road to match the speed of vehicles already on the motorway, a driver can seamlessly integrate into the existing flow of traffic, ensuring safety and efficiency.

Additionally, identifying a suitable gap to merge into is vital. This means assessing the distance and speed of approaching vehicles, which allows for a smoother transition onto the motorway. It helps to avoid abrupt lane changes or collisions that could occur if drivers do not evaluate the traffic conditions properly.

In contrast with other options, stopping completely before merging could create significant hazards. Stopping on a slip road can lead to rear-end collisions and disrupt the flow of traffic. Entering when the slip road is clear without considering the speed and flow of the main traffic can also be dangerous, as it may require sudden acceleration or deceleration that could result in accidents. Overall, matching speed and merging wisely promotes safety for all drivers on the motorway.