Drivers in the UK are being warned of the dangers and repercussions of a common manoeuvre that stops drivers 'cutting queues'.
A merge in turn, or 'zip merge,' is a system where drivers use both lanes until a closure point, then alternate merging.
It is common on UK motorways and dual carriageways and is designed to ease congestion and keep traffic moving.
However, the rise in drivers blocking the empty lane and preventing cars from 'pushing in' is frustrating other motorists, and it can lead to a fine.
What does the Highway Code say about the merge in turn?
The Highway Code is not explicit on whether blocking is allowed, but Rule 134 does shed some light on the manoeuvre.
It says: "You should follow the signs and road markings and get into the lane as directed.
"In congested road conditions, do not change lanes unnecessarily.
"Merging in turn is recommended but only if safe and appropriate when vehicles are travelling at a very low speed, e.g. when approaching road works or a road traffic incident.
"It is not recommended at high speed."
A video was recently shared on Reddit of a van blocking an upcoming empty lane due to an impending lane closure, and drivers shared their anger at the situation.
One said: "There needs to be a public information advert on this, and it's so easy to show.
"You turn a 1-mile queue into a 2-mile queue by refusing to use both lanes."
Another wrote: "We're allergic to the zipper merge in the UK and I don't understand it."
10 obscure driving laws you may not know
A third added: "The lane closure is 400 yards ahead, merge at the closure, not queue up in just one lane and take up more road space."
Expert Keith Hawes, Director at Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, said: "When approaching roadworks or a lane closure, it can be frustrating to see drivers continuing in a lane that is about to end.
"However, in many situations this is exactly what they are supposed to do."
What are the dangers of blocking a merge lane?
Other experts have warned that blocking an upcoming merge in turn can lead to accidents.
Ben Welham, a motoring expert at Marshall Motor Group, said: "Blocking another vehicle can force sudden braking or risky manoeuvres in already hazardous conditions, increasing the likelihood of a collision.
"Drivers in both lanes should keep speeds low and allow traffic to merge smoothly and safely."
John Muckian, managing director of Refused Car Finance, also warned that blocking merging turns is not recommended.
Mr Muckian said: "Drivers that are using the closing lane near to the end are actually following correct instructions, not attempting to cut the queue as many people think.
"Straddling lanes or aggressively blocking other drivers can cause sudden stops and increase the risk of collisions.
"Moving over too early when driving can cut the usable space on the road in half, which turns a balanced queue into a single line that can quickly back up and block traffic at roundabouts or junctions."
Is it illegal to block a merge lane in the UK?
Despite the Highway Code not having a specific rule against blocking the lane, it can lead to punishment if drivers are not careful.
Rogers and Norton Head of Personal Injury, Mark Hambling, explained further.
Road signs many drivers don't know
He said: "Often with the merge in turn requirements seen during many temporary and often longstanding roadworks, drivers are expected to use both lanes to ease traffic flow and as the signs often indicate merge in turn.
"As to whether a failure to do so creates a criminal offence of say “driving without due care and attention”, will require an analysis on the criminal burden of proof as to whether the standard of driving fell below that of a reasonable prudent driver, effectively a subjective test by the prosecuting authorities."
Keith Hawes added: "While there is no specific offence for blocking a merge, deliberately obstructing other road users or driving without reasonable consideration could potentially result in a £100 fixed penalty notice and 3 penalty points if the police deem the behaviour as careless or inconsiderate.
"The safest approach is to remain patient, leave adequate space and allow vehicles to merge in turn, helping traffic flow as smoothly and safely as possible for everyone."
The AA said previously that it is down to "the British obsession with queuing", but urged people to let others in.
Recommended reading:
- Can Blue Badge holders park in parent and child spaces? The rule many get wrong
- HMRC to change mileage rates from September in update affecting millions of drivers
- Little-known DVLA rule could see UK drivers fined £1,000 for simple mistake
They concluded: "Even unprompted, we'll form an orderly queue and wait patiently in line, considering anyone who doesn't to somehow be cheating.
"But next time you find yourself in slow-moving traffic approaching road works or an incident that's blocking one lane, try to resist your deep-seated urge to queue early, use all available lanes and merge in turn when you reach the lane closure.
"Also, do let in drivers who need to merge.
"They'll probably thank you for it and leave you in a slightly better mood."
Have you ever seen someone blocking a merge in turn lane? Let us know in the comments.
Share