As a general rule, interstates are safer than smaller streets. A big part of the reason is that all traffic on the interstate is heading in the same direction. This means it is incredibly rare for there to be a head-on collision, and drivers don’t have to cross paths at intersections. Traffic moves faster, but accidents are less common because everyone is moving the same way.
The on-ramp and off-ramp system is beneficial in controlling traffic so that drivers know where to expect other vehicles. However, there are sometimes conflicts and accidents when one driver is trying to merge onto a busy interstate. Which driver has the right of way, the driver who is already on the interstate and in the travel lane, or the one who is merging onto the road from the on-ramp?
Interstate traffic has the right of way
In almost all circumstances, traffic that is already on the interstate has the right of way. Drivers who are entering the road from the on-ramp need to find a safe way to do so, fitting into the flow of traffic around them. It is their job to gauge traffic, find an appropriate gap and then maneuver their vehicle into that gap as they get up to speed.
Unfortunately, merging drivers sometimes believe that interstate traffic needs to slow down, speed up or even switch lanes to allow them onto the highway. Some drivers will so adamantly hold their position that they will merge into the side of vehicles that are already on the interstate. But it is not the merging driver who has the right of way in that scenario.
If you’ve been involved in an accident caused by a negligent driver, you may be able to seek financial compensation for medical bills, lost wages and other costs.