Answer :
Final answer:
When merging onto a highway, you must give way to existing traffic and safely adjust your speed to merge without using the shoulder or stopping in the acceleration lane. Option D is correct.
Explanation:
When entering a highway and merging with the flow of traffic, the appropriate course of action, as specified by option D, is to yield to vehicles already on the highway. This entails adjusting your speed to align with the existing traffic and identifying a safe gap to seamlessly merge. Utilizing the acceleration lane for this purpose, it is crucial to avoid resorting to the road shoulder, which is not designed for high-speed highway driving.
Driving on the shoulder is discouraged due to safety concerns, as it is not intended for the sustained speeds characteristic of highway traffic. Instead, the focus should be on synchronizing your speed with that of the highway and seeking an opportune opening to merge safely. Halting at the end of the acceleration lane should be avoided unless absolutely necessary, as abrupt stops can pose hazards to both you and other motorists.
In essence, when merging onto a highway, adherence to the principle of yielding to existing traffic, adjusting speed accordingly, and avoiding the misuse of the shoulder contributes to the overall safety and fluidity of highway operations. This approach aligns with best practices for merging, ensuring a smooth integration into the flow of highway traffic while prioritizing the well-being of all road users.