Tipp of the Week: Merging onto the interstate

Hello, Tipp City! Marc the Cop here,

I drive a lot in my travels. I enjoy driving, and I can drive most things that move. I guess that goes well with my job as an advanced driving instructor. Like most vocations, this leads me to observe other drivers and their driving habits.

Last week, I was going to George’s Restaurant on North Dixie Drive in Dayton to meet a friend for breakfast.

While traveling southbound on I-75, I approached the Benchwood Drive interchange. As I continued south, I observed a black Chevrolet truck coming down the entrance ramp. As a courtesy, I changed lanes to allow the merging traffic to enter the freeway. For some reason, the driver of the black Chevrolet truck stops, causing the vehicles behind him to swerve to the right to avoid a collision. I saw that the driver was a male who appeared close to my age. I thought, “That guy knows better than to stop on an entrance ramp.” Besides, attempting to merge into 65 mph traffic is dangerous, from a dead stop.

·         Merging onto the interstate safely is a vital driving skill that helps ensure smooth traffic flow and reduces the risk of collisions. When approaching an interstate on-ramp, the key is to build up speed, assess traffic conditions, and find a suitable gap to merge into without disrupting existing traffic.

·         Start by checking for any signage at the on-ramp that indicates the merging procedure, speed limit, or any unusual road conditions. As you enter the acceleration lane, increase your speed to match that of vehicles on the interstate. This helps you merge seamlessly rather than entering too slowly, which could force other drivers to brake or swerve.

·         Before merging, signal your intention early—ideally a few seconds in advance—to alert drivers in the right lane of your plan. Use your mirrors and check your blind spot by looking over your shoulder to identify a safe gap in traffic. It’s important not to rely solely on mirrors; they can miss cars traveling in your blind zone.

·         As you approach the end of the acceleration lane, commit to merging. Do not stop unless traffic is completely stopped or there is no available gap. Hesitating at the end of the ramp can be dangerous, as drivers behind you may not expect a sudden stop. If a safe gap isn’t immediately available, continue adjusting your speed and looking for a space, but never force your way in.

·         Once you’ve merged, turn off your signal and continue matching the traffic speed. Stay in the right lane until you’re comfortable, and only move into other lanes when necessary and safe.

·         Remember that the drivers already on the interstate have the right-of-way, so you must adjust your speed and position to merge safely. Defensive driving is crucial: always be aware of other vehicles, anticipate possible lane changes from others, and maintain a safe following distance.

·         Lastly, avoid distractions during merging—put away your phone, focus on the road, and keep both hands on the wheel. Merging is one of the more complex driving maneuvers, requiring good judgment, awareness, and confidence. It becomes a smooth and safe part of highway driving with practice and attentiveness.

Remember the 9 PM routine! The 9 PM routine is a nightly reminder for residents to remove valuables from their vehicles, lock their vehicle doors, secure their residences, turn on exterior lights, and activate all alarms and security systems.

That is all for this week! Please be safe and care for one another.

I'll see you in church on Sunday!

Sgt. Marc Basye (Ret.)

Do you have a suggestion for the Tip of the Week? Your input is valuable to us. You can email me at Marcthecop@tippgazette.com!

The opinions and statements in this column are those of the author, who is not affiliated with any law enforcement agency. This column is for entertainment purposes only. Persons referred to may be fictional for comedic purposes only.