Do You Use the Zipper Method to Merge Into Traffic?

Sep 30,2016

Is there a correct way to merge into traffic? The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) says there is, and it might not be what you would expect. The department says the zipper method of merging—using the entire roadway and then taking turns merging from the closed lane to the open one up where the road narrows—is actually preferable to waiting in a long line in the open lane, especially when traffic is highly congested.

According to the CDOT, if drivers utilize the zipper method of merging during heavy traffic, they can reduce delays by up to 35%. Merging early actually creates more significant delays because a lane is not being used.

Using the zipper method to merge into traffic is often perceived as rude by other drivers who feel like they have been cut off as they were “waiting” in line. In reality, those drivers are actually adding to the delay by failing to use the available lane to merge.

“We encourage drivers to safely use the zipper method of merging to reduce traffic delays,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured in an auto accident and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.