If you’ve driven a vehicle in Michigan during construction season, chances are you’ve experienced the frustrating traffic bottleneck associated with lane closures.
Some drivers choose to exit the closing lane as soon as they learn of the traffic shift ahead. Others stay put until they run out of road and are forced to merge.
But who’s right?
John Richard, a spokesperson for the Michigan Department of Transportation, said the the zipper merge — using both lanes up until the merge point — is a good strategy in certain situations, though not all work zones are designed for zipper merging.
“It’s not always the preferred method, but zipper merges can be very effective when drivers actually read the signs and are courteous to other motorists,” Richard said.
An early merge makes sense when traffic is light and speeds are at or above average. In this scenario, if you see a lane is ending soon, you should move out of it.
However, as traffic becomes moderate or heavy and speeds slow, the zipper merge often becomes the best option.
“The work zones that are most effective are where interchanges are closer together, urban areas; if there are hills or curves that cause line of sight issues,” Richard said. “You can use both lanes so backups don’t extend so far, so it’s a half-mile in two lanes instead of a mile backup in one lane.”
Work zones where the zipper merge is preferred will often include signage that clearly states “Use both lanes” or “Take turns at merge point,” or even “Zipper Merge” with an image of a zipper.
“The big part is driver focus and driver compliance,” Richard said. “Read the signs, follow the rules, pay attention, and slow down in work zones.”
Drivers who drive in between the two lanes to block others from passing can do more harm than good by pushing the backup further. That can also result in a citation for improper lane use and/or obstructing traffic.
“It’s very dangerous and accomplishes nothing other than inducing road rage,” Richard said. “Hopefully someday everyone understands it and cooperates, but there are many that struggle with people ‘cutting in line in front of them.”
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