Merging
There are two different give way rules for merging.
1. On roads where there are lanes marked on the road, if your lane comes to an end, you must give way to traffic already in the lane you are moving to. In the image to the right, Vehicle A (blue) must give way to Vehicle B (green).
2. On roads where there are no lanes marked on the road, when lines of traffic merge, you must give way to any vehicle that is ahead of you. In the image to the right, Vehicle B (green) must give way to Vehicle A (blue).
A line of traffic generally means where two adjacent rows of vehicles do not have a lane separation line between.
Visit our Here for Life website to view an animated video on Merging.
Sections 148 and 149 of the Queensland Road Rules apply.
Tips - Motorway driving
The Department of Transport and Main Roads recommends that drivers who merge onto a motorway build up speed to match that of the traffic already on the motorway. In most cases this enables drivers to find a safe gap in the traffic. It is also common practice, and recommended by the Department of Transport and Main Roads, that drivers already on the motorway exercise courtesy and allow space for drivers trying to enter the motorway, either by adjusting their speed or changing lanes.
- Plan your route before you enter a motorway.
- When entering the motorway, look for a gap between the vehicles in the closest lane and safely build up speed on the on-ramp so you enter at the motorway traffic’s speed.
- When driving on a motorway, watch for other vehicles entering from an on-ramp and adjust your speed to allow them to enter safely.
- Be ready and in the correct lane as your exit approaches.
- If you miss your exit, continue to the next exit.
