California Traffic School Practice Test

When merging onto the highway, it is important to accelerate to match the speed of traffic. This action helps ensure a smooth and safe entry into the flow of vehicles already on the highway. By aligning your speed with that of the cars around you, you significantly reduce the risk of accidents and improve the overall traffic flow. Matching the speed of traffic allows you to find an appropriate gap safely and enter the lane without forcing other drivers to brake or swerve, which can create hazardous situations. Drivers should also be aware of their surroundings and use their mirrors and signals to confirm that a safe gap exists before merging. This approach prioritizes safety and is in line with defensive driving principles that emphasize being aware of other vehicles on the road. Using a horn to alert other drivers or merging without checking can lead to collisions, while slowing down excessively can disrupt traffic patterns and create dangerous conditions. Thus, accelerating to match the speed of traffic is the best choice when merging onto the highway.