Who can go first? When you're on the highway and your lane joins with the other lane

Merge lanes are becoming increasingly common as new highways are developed. However, confusion remains about who has the right of way when merging. These lanes, especially for experienced drivers unfamiliar with them, can cause bottlenecks as motorists slow down, unsure of how to proceed. In some cases, aggressive merging or failure to check blind spots can even lead to accidents.

Key Information for Safe Merging

In Australia, merge lanes come with different regulations depending on the type of lane markings. To avoid mistakes and ensure smooth traffic flow, it is important to understand the rules surrounding merging.

‘Form One Lane’ Merging

If there is no dividing line between lanes and the road is marked with ‘Form One Lane,’ the vehicle in front has the right of way. This is outlined in Road Rules 2014—Regulation 149, which states that when two cars approach a lane simultaneously, the car ahead has priority.

When merging into traffic moving in the same direction, a driver must yield to any vehicle already in front of them. Although there is typically enough space for one car to merge safely, accidents may still occur. In such cases, insurance companies consider factors like vehicle speed, use of indicators, and whether the correct yielding process was followed.

A no-fault collision may be declared if both vehicles are driving at the speed limit, signaling correctly, and merging at the same time. However, if a driver speeds to overtake another vehicle while merging, they could be held responsible for any resulting accident.

Penalties for Failing to Yield

Failure to yield properly can result in fines and demerit points, varying by state:

NSW: $349 and three demerit points
VIC: $296
QLD: $483 and three demerit points
ACT: $326 and three demerit points
SA: $502 and three demerit points
WA: $100 and two demerit points
NT: Not specified
TAS: $203 and one demerit point

Merging with a Broken Line

When a broken line separates lanes, different rules apply. Road Rules 2014—Regulation 148 states that the driver in the lane that is ending must yield to all other traffic. If a driver is moving into a marked lane, any vehicles already in that lane have the right of way.

Signaling Requirements

Drivers must use their indicators when merging from a lane that is ending, even if no solid line is present. Failing to signal appropriately can lead to fines and demerit points.

Understanding these merging rules can help improve road safety, reduce congestion, and prevent unnecessary accidents. For more information, refer to our previous coverage on highway merging regulations.