Key Takeaways
- Motorists should use the entire length of the on-ramp to match the speed of the traffic on the motorway and find a safe gap.
- Drivers should signal right for at least three seconds and check their blindspots before entering the motorway.
- Failing to obey motorway on-ramp rules can result in penalties, including fines and careless driving charges.
- Motorists should not slow down or stop on an on-ramp, as this can create hazards and congestion.
- Drivers should be aware of variations in on-ramp designs, such as ramp signals and double lanes, and adjust their behavior accordingly.
Introduction to Motorway On-Ramps
Motorway on-ramps are designed to help drivers join fast-moving traffic smoothly and safely. However, many motorists are not using them correctly, according to experts. The AA says that many drivers slow down or even stop to merge, turning what should be a seamless process into a recipe for congestion and potential crashes. As holiday season traffic starts to build, it is essential for drivers to understand how to use motorway on-ramps correctly.
Proper Use of Motorway On-Ramps
The AA road safety spokesperson, Dylan Thomsen, emphasizes the importance of using the entire length of the on-ramp to match the speed of the traffic on the motorway and find a safe gap. Drivers should signal right for at least three seconds and check their blindspots before entering the motorway. It is also crucial to keep an eye out for any vehicles in far lanes that could be changing lanes to the left into the driver’s path. If a gap doesn’t appear immediately, drivers should adjust their speed slightly without stopping, so they reach the merge point when a gap becomes available.
Variations in On-Ramp Designs
Some on-ramps have variations, such as ramp signals on Auckland’s motorways or double lanes. Thomsen notes that these variations require drivers to adjust their behavior. For example, ramp signals should be treated as a red light, and drivers must come to a complete stop before proceeding. Double-laned on-ramps that merge into one lane prior to entering the motorway require drivers to merge like a zip, always indicating, checking mirrors, and blind spots.
NZTA Guidelines
The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) also provides guidelines on how to use motorway on-ramps. According to NZTA, motorway on-ramps should be treated in a similar way to merge lanes. Using all the merge lane to merge gives drivers time to match the speed of people on the main road and find a safe gap to merge like a zip. Merge lanes taper to naturally guide drivers into the flow of traffic, and when merging, drivers should always merge at the end of the merge lane. This approach will get motorists smoothly to the speed of motorway traffic and provides a predictable point to enter the road, allowing other drivers to make room for them.
Penalties for Failing to Obey On-Ramp Rules
Failing to obey motorway on-ramp rules can result in penalties, including fines and careless driving charges. Ignoring ramp signals is treated the same as running a red light and comes with a $150 fine. Drivers must also enter the motorway at a safe speed and without endangering others, and breaching this rule will also result in a $150 fine. In serious cases, a motorist may be landed with a careless driving charge, or in extreme cases, a reckless or dangerous driving charge, which would require a court appearance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using motorway on-ramps correctly is crucial for safe and smooth traffic flow. Drivers should use the entire length of the on-ramp to match the speed of the traffic on the motorway and find a safe gap. They should also be aware of variations in on-ramp designs and adjust their behavior accordingly. By following the guidelines provided by the AA and NZTA, drivers can help prevent congestion and potential crashes, and avoid penalties for failing to obey on-ramp rules. As holiday season traffic starts to build, it is essential for drivers to take the time to understand how to use motorway on-ramps correctly and drive safely.
