Highway Code lane merging rule that may finish visitors without end however will annoy drivers

The Highway Code states that drivers should merge in turn in certain situations, but many road users find this frustrating and consider it to be a form of queue-jumping.

Motorists are forever grappling with the horrors of heavy traffic, but they might be able to cut down on those infuriating jams by adopting a simple manoeuvre that makes full use of the available tarmac. Yet, many drivers dismiss this tactic as nothing more than an underhanded way to skip queues.

Despite being frowned upon as a sly move to nip ahead in congestion, ‘zip merging’, also known as ‘merging in turn’, is not just permitted under the Highway Code—it’s actively recommended. This technique comes into play predominantly when two lanes merge into one, typically due to roadworks, causing increased congestion as vehicles are funnelled together.

However, if road hogs took advantage of the soon-to-be-closed lane prior to it being out of bounds, they could significantly alleviate bottlenecks. The Highway Code outlines this strategy for specific scenarios only.

Detailing the ins and outs, Rule 134 of the Highway Code reads: “In congested road conditions, do not change lanes unnecessarily. Merging in turn is recommended, but only if safe and appropriate when vehicles are travelling at a very low speed, e.g. when approaching road works or a road traffic incident. It is not recommended at high speed.”

When zip merging is a no-go, reports Coventry Live.

It’s crucial to note that the Highway Code advises against merging in turn unless vehicles are crawling at a ‘very’ slow pace. They don’t lay down an exact speed, but typically this means sluggish, stop-start movement at less than 5mph over short distances before grinding to a halt again.

This implies that this manoeuvre is generally not advised when encountering traffic on the motorway or dual carriageway, where driving speeds can soar up to 70mph. If a sign on one of these roads signals that a lane ahead is closed, it’s instead suggested to safely shift into the available lane well in advance, as you otherwise might compel another driver to brake abruptly, escalating the likelihood of an accident occurring.

Could you land in hot water for merging in turn?

Executing a safe and suitable merge in turn isn’t illegal per se and can aid in alleviating congestion on roads where there’s slow-moving traffic. However, it’s quite typical for drivers to misconstrue a merge in turn as unfairly cutting in line, which could rile up other road users.

Motorists in traffic should also steer clear of blocking people from merging into traffic, as you don’t have the legal authority to do so, and police could deem this as dangerous driving. If slapped with a dangerous driving charge, you could be hit with a fine of up to £5,000, nine points on your licence, or even a driving ban.

Additional information on the Highway Code’s regulations on lane discipline can be found online here.