When merging onto a freeway, what speed should you ideally be driving?

When merging onto a freeway, the ideal speed is at or near the same speed as the traffic already on the freeway. This is crucial for maintaining safety and flow on the roadway. By matching the speed of existing traffic, you reduce the risk of collisions that can occur when vehicles are moving at significantly different speeds.

Joining the freeway at a similar speed allows for smoother merging and helps to avoid sudden stops or sharp lane changes, which can be dangerous for both the merging vehicle and other drivers. It also enhances the overall efficiency of traffic flow, minimizing disruptions and helping maintain a consistent speed on the freeway.

Driving slower than freeway traffic can create hazardous situations, as it may force other drivers to brake unexpectedly or make sudden maneuvers to avoid a collision. Conversely, merging at a faster speed than traffic can lead to aggressive driving behaviors and increase the risk of accidents. Therefore, merging at or near the speed of traffic is both a practical and safe approach.