New York Driver License (DMV) Written Practice Test 2025 - Free DMV Practice Questions and Study Guide

Merging onto a highway requires a driver to match the speed of the vehicles already traveling on it to ensure a smooth and safe integration into the flow of traffic. Accelerating to the speed of traffic allows the driver to gauge the appropriate timing for merging without disrupting the existing traffic pattern. This approach reduces the risk of collisions and helps maintain the momentum of both the vehicle merging onto the highway and the vehicles already on it.

Decelerating or waiting too long to merge can lead to unsafe conditions. Slowing down may create confusion for other drivers, increase the chances of a rear-end collision, or result in missing the opportunity to merge safely. Additionally, merging as soon as possible, regardless of speed, poses a significant risk as it may lead to sudden stops or dangerous lane changes if the merging vehicle is not at an appropriate speed. Therefore, accelerating to match highway speeds and merging when it is safe is the best method for ensuring both safety and efficiency on the road.