Merging onto an Interstate
What method do you use to enter an interstate from the on ramp to merge with traffic when towing?
Forum Discussion
Where I'm familiar, I try to use interchanges with longer ramps.
The signals on ramps are "ramp metering" signals. They are intended to limit the amount of traffic entering the freeway. There is a phenomemon as demand approaches capacity, you reach a breaking point at which capacity actually drops. If you can keep it just below capacity, you are maximizing the thruput on the freeway. That said, it's far from a cure all. If you hold traffic up for too long, the will just ignore the signal.
Weave Lanes: Generally, they are to be avoided on new construction for the reasons discussed but there are trade offs. Where interchanges are closely spaced and volumes are heavy, they may be the best option available.
Merging: The vehicles on the freeway can move to the left if they choose but legally, they are obliged to hold a steady speed so merging traffic can choose a gap. What they can't do is intentially speed up or slow down to stop someone from merging.
Punch it: sort of true. The goal is to match the speed on the freeway. With a slow accelerating vehicle and a short ramp, that can translate to punch it.
The signals on ramps are "ramp metering" signals. They are intended to limit the amount of traffic entering the freeway. There is a phenomemon as demand approaches capacity, you reach a breaking point at which capacity actually drops. If you can keep it just below capacity, you are maximizing the thruput on the freeway. That said, it's far from a cure all. If you hold traffic up for too long, the will just ignore the signal.
Weave Lanes: Generally, they are to be avoided on new construction for the reasons discussed but there are trade offs. Where interchanges are closely spaced and volumes are heavy, they may be the best option available.
Merging: The vehicles on the freeway can move to the left if they choose but legally, they are obliged to hold a steady speed so merging traffic can choose a gap. What they can't do is intentially speed up or slow down to stop someone from merging.
Punch it: sort of true. The goal is to match the speed on the freeway. With a slow accelerating vehicle and a short ramp, that can translate to punch it.
