When exiting a highway, you should slow down:
On the main road, just before the exit lane.
Once you see a toll booth.
Once you have moved into the exit lane.
When you first see the exit sign.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: Once you have moved into the exit lane.
Explanation:
When exiting a highway, it’s important to follow a gradual and controlled deceleration to ensure your safety and the safety of others. The best time to begin slowing down is after you’ve moved into the exit lane. Here’s why:
- Highway speeds: Highways are designed for high-speed travel, with vehicles typically moving at speeds of 55 to 75 mph. When you approach an exit, the speed limit on the exit ramp is usually lower (often 25 to 45 mph) because the ramp is more curvy, narrower, and may have intersections or traffic signals. Therefore, it’s crucial to reduce speed in a controlled manner so you can navigate the exit safely.
- Exiting too early: If you slow down too soon on the main highway, especially before entering the exit lane, you risk interfering with the flow of traffic. Other vehicles may not anticipate your decrease in speed and could rear-end you or attempt to pass you unexpectedly.
- Using the exit lane: The exit lane is specifically designed to help you safely decelerate and leave the highway. Once you enter the exit lane, you’re in a more controlled environment where you can slow down without impacting the main highway traffic. This lane is typically wider, and there is more space for vehicles to merge in and out. The curvature of the ramp also helps guide the vehicle, making it easier to reduce speed.
- Toll booths: If a toll booth is present after the exit, you should still wait until you have moved into the exit lane before slowing down. Reducing your speed too soon may cause delays or confusion for drivers who are following you. Additionally, toll booths generally have their own speed limits that are much lower than highway speeds, but slowing down prematurely can cause problems with traffic flow.
- Exit sign: Seeing an exit sign is a reminder to prepare to exit, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you should start slowing down immediately. Some exits are far off, and slowing down too early can be disruptive. The proper time to slow down is only when you’re safely in the exit lane.
In summary, the safest and most effective strategy is to wait until you are in the exit lane before you begin slowing down, allowing you to transition smoothly from high-speed highway travel to slower, safer speeds for exiting.