When entering an expressway from an on-ramp, it is generally recommended to reach the full speed limit by the time you merge onto the main roadway. The reason for this is to ensure a smooth and safe merge with the flow of traffic on the expressway. Here's why:
Matching the flow of traffic: When you merge onto the expressway, you need to match the speed of the vehicles already on the road. If you enter too slowly, it can create a dangerous situation where other drivers may have to brake or swerve to avoid a collision. It's essential to smoothly integrate with the existing traffic pattern to maintain a safe and efficient flow.
Safe merging distance: Merging onto a high-speed road requires a certain distance to accelerate and merge safely. If you are not up to speed, you might not have enough space to merge without causing disruptions to other drivers or risking a collision.
Reduce congestion and bottlenecks: If drivers entering the expressway from on-ramps are not up to the speed limit, it can lead to congestion and bottlenecks on the main roadway. This can lead to traffic jams and frustration among drivers.
Avoid rear-end collisions: If you enter the expressway significantly slower than the prevailing traffic speed, you might be at risk of causing a rear-end collision with a vehicle behind you, especially if they are expecting you to merge at a higher speed.
That said, it's important to emphasize that reaching the full speed limit doesn't mean you should excessively speed or ignore traffic conditions. Always follow posted speed limits and adjust your speed as necessary based on traffic, road, and weather conditions. Additionally, be attentive to other drivers and use your indicators to signal your intentions while merging. Defensive driving and courteous behavior on the road contribute to safer and more enjoyable driving experiences for everyone.