# Driving "rules" that they don't teach you in driver's ed **URL:** \ **Category:** In My Humble Opinion\ **Created:** [February 1, 2010, 4:08pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254 "2010-02-01T16:08:51Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 20\ **Page:** 13
**Author:** ![pulykamell](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/pulykamell/32/3166_2.png) [@pulykamell](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/pulykamell)\ **Post date:** [February 6, 2010, 8:29pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254/241 "2010-02-06T20:29:19Z")
> [@enipla](#): > > Almost certainly BS from your friend. A car will go where it’s going to go based on where it’s hit from. The direction that the wheels are turned barely comes into the factor and is not really worth worrying about. Same with the puting it in neutral and the parking brake at a stop light. The lack of car and physics knowlege in this thread has been quite astonishing, Would that not depend on how hard it is hit? If it’s hit from behind, why shouldn’t it go straight vs in the general direction the wheels are turned? The worry isn’t that somebody’s going to slam into you at 30 mph, but more like bump you at 5 mph because of inattention. Just curious, because we, too, were taught during driver’s ed to always keep our cars wheels pointed ahead in a turn lane in the event somebody bumps you from behind. We were docked points if we didn’t during our exam. Not that I follow this rule consistently, but I can’t see how the thought is against the laws of physics, exactly. I mean, sure, if it’s slammed into it’ll just skid in the direction it gets slammed from, but in the more likely situation (at least in my opinion)–an accidental low-speed collision --I’d think the car would follow the path of the wheels, no? ---
**Author:** ![pulykamell](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/pulykamell/32/3166_2.png) [@pulykamell](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/pulykamell)\ **Post date:** [February 6, 2010, 8:34pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254/242 "2010-02-06T20:34:03Z")
[Here’s the New York Driver’s manual](http://www.nydmv.state.ny.us/dmanual/chapter05-manual.htm), for instance: > [@](#): > > When you enter the intersection, stay to the right of the center line. Keep your wheels straight to avoid being pushed into oncoming traffic should a rear-end collision occur. When approaching traffic clears or stops for a red light, complete your turn. Of course, this wouldn’t be the first time a government agency got an aspect of science incorrect, but if this is an example of the astonishing lack of physics knowledge displayed in this thread, it’s got a good source. ---
**Author:** ![Cat\_Whisperer](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/cat_whisperer/32/4839_2.png) [@Cat\_Whisperer](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Cat_Whisperer)\ **Post date:** [February 6, 2010, 10:25pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254/243 "2010-02-06T22:25:43Z")
My general knowledge says that the car will follow the path of least resistance; if it can follow the turning wheels, it will. After that, it will go in the direction it is pushed in, regardless of the wheels. ---
**Author:** ![Brown\_Eyed\_Girl](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/brown_eyed_girl/32/3574_2.png) [@Brown\_Eyed\_Girl](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Brown_Eyed_Girl)\ **Post date:** [February 6, 2010, 11:28pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254/244 "2010-02-06T23:28:50Z")
> [@luv2draw](#): > > Don’t trust your mirrors when changing lanes, etc. Turn your head and look so you don’t miss something in the the blind spots. This is exactly how I ended up getting rear-ended when traffic in front of me stopped suddenly and we all went from 45 mph to dead stop in heavy traffic. As soon as I hit my brakes, I suspected I was going to be hit, so I look in the rear-view mirror and what do I see? The lady behind me with her head turned completely right to look for an opening in the next lane. Then she slammed into me. Lesson: Even if you are focusing on your mirrors, you are more likely to see a field of red brake lights with your peripheral vision than with your ear. Better advice: Use your side mirrors to change lanes and always face the direction in which your vehicle is traveling. If you are going forward, face forward at all times. If you are in reverse, turn around and face the rear of your vehicle. If your mirrors don’t give you a clear view around the back and sides of your vehicle, you have them positioned incorrectly. This was covered in a recent thread, but you should not see the side of your car in your side-view mirrors. If you do, you’ll need to crank your head around to see into your “blind spots.” > [@](#): > > Always be ready to hit the brake unexpectedly: > (1) Especially that parked car you see that guy sitting in; he might open the door suddenly, right in your path. > > (2) In an intersection. Other drivers may not yield the right of way. > > (3) If a ball rolls into the road. The kid who dropped/threw it might be chasing after it right into your path. I would add to this, it’s sensible to adjust your speed beforehand, so unexpected braking is less severe and sudden. The lower your speed the less space it takes to stop. > [@Hampshire](#): > > When a lane of traffic is going to be closed ahead and signs forewarn “right lane closed ahead, merge left” both lanes should be used all the way up to the merge point. > I am not being an ass because everyone is stopped bumper to bumper for a 1/2 mile in the left lane and I drive past you in the right hand lane up to the merge point. I do this because it’s the correct thing to do. > I realize most people are not aware of this from all the middle fingers and unwillingness to let me merge going on but I am still correct. Word. ---
**Author:** ![aceplace57](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/aceplace57/32/3500_2.png) [@aceplace57](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/aceplace57)\ **Post date:** [February 6, 2010, 11:41pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254/245 "2010-02-06T23:41:58Z")
Thanks for finding this in the NY rules. I guess my friend was on to something. His comments years ago changed my driving. When I get into the left lane, I try to get my wheels straight before the light. It doesn’t hurt anything and maybe it is a tad safer. > [@pulykamell](#): > > Would that not depend on how hard it is hit? If it’s hit from behind, why shouldn’t it go straight vs in the general direction the wheels are turned? The worry isn’t that somebody’s going to slam into you at 30 mph, but more like bump you at 5 mph because of inattention. > > Just curious, because we, too, were taught during driver’s ed to always keep our cars wheels pointed ahead in a turn lane in the event somebody bumps you from behind. We were docked points if we didn’t during our exam. Not that I follow this rule consistently, but I can’t see how the thought is against the laws of physics, exactly. I mean, sure, if it’s slammed into it’ll just skid in the direction it gets slammed from, but in the more likely situation (at least in my opinion)–an accidental low-speed collision --I’d think the car would follow the path of the wheels, no? ---
**Author:** ![Clothahump](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/c/51bf81/32.png) [@Clothahump](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Clothahump)\ **Post date:** [February 7, 2010, 12:00am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254/246 "2010-02-07T00:00:49Z")
Rule #1: Everyone else on the road is a crazy asshole who is out to kill you. ---
**Author:** ![Bearflag70](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/b/8e7dd6/32.png) [@Bearflag70](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Bearflag70)\ **Post date:** [February 7, 2010, 12:11am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254/247 "2010-02-07T00:11:31Z")
If your front wheels are turned, I don’t understand how being pushed from behind by another car would cause you to go straight ahead but being pushed forward by your own rear wheels causes you to turn. ---
**Author:** ![pulykamell](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/pulykamell/32/3166_2.png) [@pulykamell](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/pulykamell)\ **Post date:** [February 7, 2010, 12:30am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254/248 "2010-02-07T00:30:56Z")
> [@aceplace57](#): > > Thanks for finding this in the NY rules. I guess my friend was on to something. His comments years ago changed my driving. When I get into the left lane, I try to get my wheels straight before the light. It doesn’t hurt anything and maybe it is a tad safer. I can’t see how it would do anything but reduce risk. [Here’s Ontario’s Handbook](http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/dandv/driver/handbook/section6.1.0.shtml): > [@](#): > > When waiting to make a left turn, keep your front wheels straight. With your wheels turned left, your vehicle could be pushed into oncoming traffic. When waiting to turn right, keep the wheels straight if there is a risk of being pushed into pedestrians crossing the intersection. Ah ha. Found California. It doesn’t seem to be a law but [a safety suggestion](http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/hdbk/turns.htm): > [@](#): > > Safety suggestion: While waiting to turn left, keep your wheels pointed straight ahead until it is safe to start your turn. If your wheels are pointed to the left and a vehicle hits you from behind, you could be pushed into oncoming traffic. [Here’s the rules for a Commercial Drivers License](http://www.drivingrules.net/cdl/CDLDrivetest/drivetest1.htm): > [@](#): > > The examiner will watch for certain actions as you go through the test. You should practice each of the test items to make sure you do them correctly. > > This section explains what the examiner will be checking. > > Left/Right Turns > > […] > > • Keep wheels straight. You must keep your wheels straight ahead while stopped. As I said above, Illinois Drivers Ed test circa 1991, we were marked off our road test if we did not point our wheels straight while stopped in the left turn lane, waiting to turn. ---
**Author:** ![enipla](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/e/54ee81/32.png) [@enipla](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/enipla)\ **Post date:** [February 7, 2010, 2:06am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254/249 "2010-02-07T02:06:26Z")
> [@pulykamell](#): > > Put it this way, I’m imagining a situation (the most common in my experience) where there are two lanes merging into one. They are both going slow enough that drivers have to make room for you and allow you in. Some drivers will be assholes and defend their space, some will cede space easily. Some mergers will merge early, some will merge late. You’ll have several different merge points (in my experience, there’s at least four or five places people merge.) I’m entitled to the left lane until the merge point, so why not use it? Now, if everybody did that, and we followed a zipper style merge (each car lettering one in), that’s the fairest solution for everyone involved. Nobody feels like their place in line was “jumped.” Everybody equally cedes one space to a vehicle when they get to the merge point, etc. When the traffic is built up, it doesn’t really matter where the merge point is, so much as that everybody merges in the same place and follows the courtesy of a zipper merge. you are welcome to the closing lane until it ends. At that point you are also welcome to wait until you have a clear spot to accelerate back up to highway speeds and merge into traffic from 0 MPH. Since you did not pay attention that your lane was ending, and perhaps tried to play it so you could pass a car or two I have very little empethy for you. You can wait there all day as far as I am concerned. ohhh. Dinner is here. No time to edit. ---
**Author:** ![pulykamell](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/pulykamell/32/3166_2.png) [@pulykamell](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/pulykamell)\ **Post date:** [February 7, 2010, 2:16am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254/250 "2010-02-07T02:16:57Z")
> [@enipla](#): > > you are welcome to the closing lane until it ends. > > At that point you are also welcome to wait until you have a clear spot to accelerate back up to highway speeds and merge into traffic from 0 MPH. Since you did not pay attention that your lane was ending, and perhaps tried to play it so you could pass a car or two I have very little empethy for you. You can wait there all day as far as I am concerned. This is not the situation I’m describing. And I have no problems merging in this manner. And I, personally, would have no problem with you not letting me in if your lane was moving at highway speeds and I was stuck at a standstill. You are completely correct that in that situation, I should have merged earlier. And, you’ll note, I stated upthread that is exactly what I do. ---
**Author:** ![Balthisar](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/balthisar/32/2825_2.png) [@Balthisar](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Balthisar)\ **Post date:** [February 7, 2010, 3:30am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254/251 "2010-02-07T03:30:55Z")
Regarding the late versus early merging, I’m a recent convert to _late merging_ after years of calling late mergers assholes and whatnot. Let’s be clear, the only time late versus early merging is really and issue is when the through-lane is already at a virtual standstill relative to the ending-lane. Also consider a very similar situation – freeway entrance ramps during periods of high traffic activity (i.e., almost-stopped situations): do you merge at the end of the merge lane (the lane designed for merging?) or as soon as you possibly can? (For the record, there’s not a whole lot I like about the Ontario government, but by _God_, their merge lanes are superior to anything we have in Michigan!) So, the through-lane is at a virtual standstill. Then there are two types of “cheaters.” The “good” cheaters are the ones the early mergers like; they stay in the ending lane, and do more or less the average speed of the through-lane until the merge point. Of course, this pisses off the faster late mergers. I actually don’t get mad at this type of “cheater,” since at the very least, it’s equitable. However, I’m a faster “cheater,” but not one that’ll get mad at the equitable guys. But assuming that there’s not an equitable guy, sure, I’ll pass everyone in the through lane, up until that last 100 yards or so. At that time, then yes, _I’m doing the average speed as the through-lane_. I expect to be able to merge, just as the law is demanding. If everyone did this instead of trying to be morality police, then the traffic backup would be much less. _In fact_ some of my favorite merge lanes are where _no one_ has the so-called right of way; the lanes are simply unmarked. Everyone is forced to cooperate. There’s no “this is _my lane_ asshole” type of attitude, because there’s simply no lane. I see this often at bridges and toll booths. Makes everyone a lot less hostile, and really, enforces the logic that should always be there for any type of merge situation. (I’m currently living in a foreign country with a highway system [locally, not universally] that doesn’t have merge lanes. What a _desmadre_ [look it up]. No opportunity to match existing speeds to get onto the freeway. It’s frustrating, stressful, and I can’t wait to get back to Michigan roads.) **And now…** > [@FredGarven](#): > > The middle left turning lane is just for that. Not all places have this lane so I will explain. It is a lane marked by two solid yellow outer lines and two dashed yellow inner lines. It is intended to be used for traffic to merge into in order to turn left onto a side road or driveway. However, people use it to turn left from side roads or driveways and then merge onto the main roadway, which is incorrect and has caused many accidents. and > [@crazyjoe](#): > > I was specifically taught, and of course regulations vary by state, that using the left lane to partially complete a left turn into traffic from a side street is permissable. The way many traffic patterns function in town, it is the only way possible to complete a left turn from a side street. and (in reference to **FredGarven** ) > [@Rumor\_Watkins](#): > > You’re just plain wrong, sorry. > > It’s your problem to make sure the lane is clear/will be clear by the time you enter it. According to you, what are sidestreet-to-arterial road drivers supposed to do? cross over the double-yellow lane and turn directly into traffic travelling at speed? > > Here: > > **Illinois:** > > Two-Way Left Turn Lanes > Two-way left turn lanes are marked with yellow lines and white arrows. A left turn may not be made from any other lane when a turn lane is provided. A vehicle may not be driven in the lane except when preparing for or making a left turn from **or into the roadway** or when preparing for or making a U-turn when permitted by law. > **California:** > > Center Left Turn Lanes > > A center left turn lane is in the middle of a two-way street and is marked on both sides by two painted lines. The inner line is broken and the outer line is solid. If a street has a center left turn lane, you must use it when you turn left (CVC §21460.5 [c]) or start a permitted U-turn. You may only drive for 200 feet in the center left turn lane. This lane is not a regular traffic lane or a passing lane. To turn left from this lane, signal, look over your shoulder, and drive completely inside the center left turn lane. Do not stop with the back of your vehicle blocking traffic. > > Vehicles using the center turn lane. > > Make sure the lane is clear in both directions and then turn only when it is safe. Look for vehicles coming toward you in the same lane to start their left turn. > > **When turning left from a side street or driveway, signal and wait until it is safe. Then you may drive into the center left turn lane. Enter traffic only when it is safe**. > **Pennsylvania:** > > TURNING FROM OR INTO A CENTER TURN LANE > If you see a lane in the middle of a two-way street marked on both sides by two (2) lines — one (1) solid outer line and one (1) broken inner line — it means this lane may only be used for left turns (Refer to the diagram in Chapter 2). Drivers traveling in either direction must use this lane to begin their left turns, \*\*and drivers entering the road may also use this lane to end their left turn from a cross street before entering the traffic stream. \*\* > > There are many possible traffic conflicts in this situation: > > • **When you enter the center lane to turn left into a driveway** or cross street, **you must watch for both oncoming vehicles in the center turn lane and vehicles turning from driveways and cross streets (on your left) into the center turn lane.** > > • When you are turning left from a driveway or cross street into a center lane, you must watch for through traffic coming from your left, as well as for drivers who are already in the center lane preparing to make a turn from either direction. Okay, **Rumor\_Watkins** , I see that such stupid, dangerous behavior is allowed at the very least in the states that you cite. I’ll have to keep that in mind. Actually, I don’t have to keep that in mind, because all of the assholes in Michigan constantly use the lane in accordance with other states’ laws, but in violation of Michigan’s laws, so I’m prepared for such stupid, dangerous behavior anyway. And dang, I can’t find the Michigan Compiled Laws cite (I’ve posted it here on at least a couple of occasions), but the SOS FAQ mentions this: > [@](#): > > Question: How far can you drive in a center turn lane? > > Answer: That depends. When preparing for a left turn a driver can travel a “reasonable” distance in the center turn lane. > > **It is unlawful to use the center left turn lane for a right turn or as a merge lane when entering the roadway.** Bolding mine. I’m ashamed that my MCL search skills don’t allow me to provide the proper cite, though. ---
**Author:** ![Brown\_Eyed\_Girl](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/brown_eyed_girl/32/3574_2.png) [@Brown\_Eyed\_Girl](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Brown_Eyed_Girl)\ **Post date:** [February 7, 2010, 4:56am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254/252 "2010-02-07T04:56:18Z")
> [@Balthisar](#): > > Regarding the late versus early merging, I’m a recent convert to _late merging_ after years of calling late mergers assholes and whatnot. Let’s be clear, the only time late versus early merging is really and issue is when the through-lane is already at a virtual standstill relative to the ending-lane. Also consider a very similar situation – freeway entrance ramps during periods of high traffic activity (i.e., almost-stopped situations): do you merge at the end of the merge lane (the lane designed for merging?) or as soon as you possibly can? (For the record, there’s not a whole lot I like about the Ontario government, but by _God_, their merge lanes are superior to anything we have in Michigan!) > > So, the through-lane is at a virtual standstill. Then there are two types of “cheaters.” The “good” cheaters are the ones the early mergers like; they stay in the ending lane, and do more or less the average speed of the through-lane until the merge point. Of course, this pisses off the faster late mergers. I actually don’t get mad at this type of “cheater,” since at the very least, it’s equitable. > > However, I’m a faster “cheater,” but not one that’ll get mad at the equitable guys. But assuming that there’s not an equitable guy, sure, I’ll pass everyone in the through lane, up until that last 100 yards or so. At that time, then yes, _I’m doing the average speed as the through-lane_. I expect to be able to merge, just as the law is demanding. If everyone did this instead of trying to be morality police, then the traffic backup would be much less. _In fact_ some of my favorite merge lanes are where _no one_ has the so-called right of way; the lanes are simply unmarked. Everyone is forced to cooperate. There’s no “this is _my lane_ asshole” type of attitude, because there’s simply no lane. I see this often at bridges and toll booths. Makes everyone a lot less hostile, and really, enforces the logic that should always be there for any type of merge situation. It’s not cheating. It’s using all of the available resources at your disposal. > [@](#): > > And dang, I can’t find the Michigan Compiled Laws cite (I’ve posted it here on at least a couple of occasions), but the SOS FAQ mentions this: > > > [@](#): > > > > Question: How far can you drive in a center turn lane? > > > > Answer: That depends. When preparing for a left turn a driver can travel a “reasonable” distance in the center turn lane. > > > > It is unlawful to use the center left turn lane for a right turn or as a merge lane when entering the roadway. > > Bolding mine. I’m ashamed that my MCL search skills don’t allow me to provide the proper cite, though. [Here](http://www.legislature.mi.gov/%28S%28eec50t451jn5mv55cgq13wmq%29%29/mileg.aspx?page=getobject&objectname=mcl-257-642&query=on&highlight=center%20AND%20lane): > [@](#): > > (1) When a roadway has been divided into 2 or more clearly marked lanes for traffic the following rules in addition to all others consistent with this act shall apply: > … > (b) Upon a roadway which is divided into 3 lanes and provides for 2-way movement of traffic, a vehicle shall not be driven in the center lane except when overtaking and passing another vehicle traveling in the same direction, when the center lane is clear of traffic within a safe distance, or in preparation for a left turn, or where the center lane is at the time allocated exclusively to traffic moving in the same direction the vehicle is proceeding and the allocation is designated by official traffic control devices. or [here](http://www.legislature.mi.gov/%28S%28eec50t451jn5mv55cgq13wmq%29%29/mileg.aspx?page=getobject&objectname=mcl-257-634&query=on&highlight=lane): > [@](#): > > (2) Upon a roadway having 2 or more lanes for travel in 1 direction, the driver of a vehicle shall drive the vehicle in the extreme right-hand lane available for travel except as otherwise provided in this section. However, the driver of a vehicle may drive the vehicle in any lane lawfully available to traffic moving in the same direction of travel when the lanes are occupied by vehicles moving in substantially continuous lanes of traffic and in any left-hand lane lawfully available to traffic moving in the same direction of travel for a reasonable distance before making a left turn. It doesn’t seem as clear-cut as your quote (which came from where?), but it does not permit driving in the center lane of a 3 lane bi-directional road except for passing and overtaking, preparing for left turn or otherwise permitted by signal. IMHO, I think this is an oversight as Michigan sure has multi-lane roads in which left turns are permitted, but heavily traveled in both directions. The center lane should accommodate this situation and allow left turns onto the roadway to merge into traffic safely. ---
**Author:** ![enipla](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/e/54ee81/32.png) [@enipla](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/enipla)\ **Post date:** [February 7, 2010, 5:35am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254/253 "2010-02-07T05:35:19Z")
> [@Balthisar](#): > > Regarding the late versus early merging, I’m a recent convert to _late merging_ after years of calling late mergers assholes and whatnot. Let’s be clear, the only time late versus early merging is really and issue is when the through-lane is already at a virtual standstill relative to the ending-lane. Also consider a very similar situation – freeway entrance ramps during periods of high traffic activity (i.e., almost-stopped situations): do you merge at the end of the merge lane (the lane designed for merging?) or as soon as you possibly can? I’ll merge as soon as it is safe and legal to do so. I will not cross a solid line, but do not, and prefer not to wait to the very end of the merge lane. That only makes sense. Why anyone would wait until the very end and run everyone out of options is a real mystery to me. It’s inconsiderate and darn right dangerous. ---
**Author:** ![Brown\_Eyed\_Girl](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/brown_eyed_girl/32/3574_2.png) [@Brown\_Eyed\_Girl](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Brown_Eyed_Girl)\ **Post date:** [February 7, 2010, 5:50am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254/254 "2010-02-07T05:50:51Z")
> [@enipla](#): > > I’ll merge as soon as it is safe and legal to do so. I will not cross a solid line, but do not, and prefer not to wait to the very end of the merge lane. That only makes sense. > > Why anyone would wait until the very end and run everyone out of options is a real mystery to me. It’s inconsiderate and darn right dangerous. In light traffic when it’s flowing at high speeds, I’ll merge as soon as I safely can, but everything changes during rush hour when traffic is backed up. It makes more sense to use all the available resources available, which includes every part of the legal roadway. Everyone has to merge at some point, why not make the best use of the entire highway and shorten the bottleneck? Merging early in heavy traffic just lengthens the bottleneck and creates more chaos because people choose different merge points. Not sure what’s inherently dangerous about merging at the chokepoint in bumper to bumper traffic (although, I can see the wisdom of not waiting til the last minute in traffic flowing at highway speeds). I can’t see how it’s inconsiderate either. Why do people feel so entitled when it comes to their place in traffic? There is no first or last in heavy traffic. ---
**Author:** ![pulykamell](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/pulykamell/32/3166_2.png) [@pulykamell](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/pulykamell)\ **Post date:** [February 7, 2010, 6:31am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254/255 "2010-02-07T06:31:48Z")
> [@Brown\_Eyed\_Girl](#): > > In light traffic when it’s flowing at high speeds, I’ll merge as soon as I safely can, but everything changes during rush hour when traffic is backed up. It makes more sense to use all the available resources available, which includes every part of the legal roadway. Everyone has to merge at some point, why not make the best use of the entire highway and shorten the bottleneck? Merging early in heavy traffic just lengthens the bottleneck and creates more chaos because people choose different merge points. > > Not sure what’s inherently dangerous about merging at the chokepoint in bumper to bumper traffic (although, I can see the wisdom of not waiting til the last minute in traffic flowing at highway speeds). I can’t see how it’s inconsiderate either. Why do people feel so entitled when it comes to their place in traffic? There is no first or last in heavy traffic. Exactly. ---
**Author:** ![arseNal](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/a/ecae2f/32.png) [@arseNal](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/arseNal)\ **Post date:** [February 7, 2010, 2:59pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254/256 "2010-02-07T14:59:11Z")
> [@enipla](#): > > you are welcome to the closing lane until it ends. > > At that point you are also welcome to wait until you have a clear spot to accelerate back up to highway speeds and merge into traffic from 0 MPH. Since you did not pay attention that your lane was ending, and perhaps tried to play it so you could pass a car or two I have very little empethy for you. You can wait there all day as far as I am concerned. > ohhh. Dinner is here. No time to edit. Is anyone in the late merge crowd talking about a situation like this? I sure wasn’t. I don’t see why this discussion is even worth having if any cars are going through the merge point anywhere near highway speed. Clearly, if this is the case, and some dude drives up to the merge point only to try to merge in from 0 mph while everyone else going 50 mph, then he is clearly an idiot. I don’t think anyone here would disagree with that. ---
**Author:** ![Frylock](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/f/ce7236/32.png) [@Frylock](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Frylock)\ **Post date:** [February 7, 2010, 3:23pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254/257 "2010-02-07T15:23:02Z")
> [@Balthisar](#): > > Okay, **Rumor\_Watkins** , I see that such stupid, dangerous behavior is allowed at the very least in the states that you cite. I don’t understand what is supposed to be dangerous about this. In fact, I have always thought it to constitute a safety _plus_. It reduces the chance that people will block oncoming drivers when turning left. What is it that you think is dangerous about turning left into the cross-street’s left turn lane? ---
**Author:** ![Balthisar](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/balthisar/32/2825_2.png) [@Balthisar](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Balthisar)\ **Post date:** [February 7, 2010, 9:40pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254/258 "2010-02-07T21:40:13Z")
> [@Brown\_Eyed\_Girl](#): > > It doesn’t seem as clear-cut as your quote (which came from where?), but it does not permit driving in the center lane of a 3 lane bi-directional road except for passing and overtaking, preparing for left turn or otherwise permitted by signal. The Michigan SOS FAQ. > [@Frylock](#): > > I don’t understand what is supposed to be dangerous about this. In fact, I have always thought it to constitute a safety _plus_. It reduces the chance that people will block oncoming drivers when turning left. > > What is it that you think is dangerous about turning left into the cross-street’s left turn lane? Because they block people that are going to legitimately use the lane to execute a left turn. I suppose I’ll give an allowance (safety-wise, not legally) for people that get into it and stop, but the assholes in Michigan constantly use it as an acceleration lane. One has no idea when they’ll get into the bona traffic lane, and they interfere with people’s legal use of the lane. It’s quite dangerous, in fact, and it’s constantly causing me near-misses. If you can’t turn left from the shopping center (or whereever), then your options are either (a) don’t shop there, (b) go to the light-controlled exit, or (c) turn right and make a legal U-turn. Yeah, that’s right, a U-turn from the left turn lane _is_ a left turn of sorts, and a heck of a lot more predictable than trying to use the lane as an acceleration lane. ---
**Author:** ![Frylock](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/f/ce7236/32.png) [@Frylock](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Frylock)\ **Post date:** [February 7, 2010, 9:54pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254/259 "2010-02-07T21:54:07Z")
> [@Balthisar](#): > > The Michigan SOS FAQ. > > Because they block people that are going to legitimately use the lane to execute a left turn. I suppose I’ll give an allowance (safety-wise, not legally) for people that get into it and stop, but the assholes in Michigan constantly use it as an acceleration lane. One has no idea when they’ll get into the bona traffic lane, and they interfere with people’s legal use of the lane. It’s quite dangerous, in fact, and it’s constantly causing me near-misses. If you can’t turn left from the shopping center (or whereever), then your options are either (a) don’t shop there, (b) go to the light-controlled exit, or (c) turn right and make a legal U-turn. Yeah, that’s right, a U-turn from the left turn lane _is_ a left turn of sorts, and a heck of a lot more predictable than trying to use the lane as an acceleration lane. Sorry, I’m not trying to be obtuse, I’m just trying to visualize the situation where they’d block you in a way that causes danger. I guess what you’re talking about is a situation where you change into the left turn lane in order to execute a left turn, but someone (it turns out) was already in that lane, a little behind you where you didn’t see them, and so they almost rear-end you? Is that the kind of situation you’re talking about? (Any other situation I visualize, it would seem the offending car would be well within your visual field so I’m not sure how you would get involved in a near-miss except by your own negligence.) But in this case I just described, shouldn’t you have been checking for the presence of a car before changing lanes? So even in that case, it would seem the near-miss would be your fault at least as much (if not even more than) theirs. But I’m probably just misunderstanding the kind of situation you’re talking about. ---
**Author:** ![Brown\_Eyed\_Girl](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/brown_eyed_girl/32/3574_2.png) [@Brown\_Eyed\_Girl](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Brown_Eyed_Girl)\ **Post date:** [February 7, 2010, 11:54pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254/260 "2010-02-07T23:54:30Z")
I get what \*\*Balthisar \*\*is saying. The center lanes he’s talking about are meant to be used by both sides of traffic for turning left into businesses on the opposite side of the street, so that left turners don’t block through traffic in the lanes. Since they share the lane and there are businesses on both sides of the street, you want to spend as little time in the lane as possible so as not to interfere with left-turners going in the opposite direction. In some states (apparently not MI, though), that lane can also be used to turn left from businesses so that a vehicle entering the roadway does not have to wait for traffic to be clear in both directions at the same time. The idea, though, is that you stop once in the center lane and wait for traffic to clear in the closest through lane in order to merge. Nobody should be traveling in the center lane to get up to merge speed because it interferes with other center lane users. I get it, and yeah, those jerks are doing it wrong, in any state. ETA: Oh, and it helps to indicate that you intend to merge with traffic while in the center lane by using the right turn signal, so that people don’t think you’re going to make a left instead. [Previous page](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254.md?page=12) [Next page](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/driving-rules-that-they-dont-teach-you-in-drivers-ed/527254.md?page=14)