When it comes time to merge on the freeway, you need to be cautious, attentive, and abide by the rules of the road. In the Lone Star State, there are regulations regarding the operation of vehicles. But what is the Texas law for merging onto the freeway?
Laws are in place to keep everyone safe, whether driving on highways, city streets, or residential roads. At Barrera Law Group LLC, we have seen the aftermath of those accidents caused by others who don’t pay attention to these regulations. For this reason, and to keep everyone safe, here is what you need to know about whether there is a Texas law for merging onto the freeway.
Texas Transportation Code and Merging
All road rules for public roads are outlined in the Texas Transportation Code. While the code does not provide a specific section solely dedicated to merging, it does give a few general principles of safe driving that apply to this maneuver. In these cases, you will have to yield to traffic, which is clearly defined in the Texas code.
According to Texas Transp. Code Section 545.061, drivers must yield when entering a roadway from a different roadway. Remember that existing traffic has the right-of-way. If you are merging, you need to adjust your speed and position to enter the flow of traffic safely.
In Texas, there are acceleration lanes to help drivers increase their speed to match that of the traffic on the freeway. Often, drivers use the entire length of the acceleration lane to gain speed before merging. If you enter at a lower speed, it can disrupt the traffic flow and increase the likelihood of collisions.
Safety Tips for Merging
Driving on the road is dangerous. According to the National Safety Council (NSC) estimates, there were expected to be 44,450 motor vehicle deaths in the U.S. in 2023. When operating a vehicle, you want to take all the precautions to avoid a collision.
Along with the above, there are other safety tips that you will want to follow to merge onto a highway, such as:
- Planning ahead: Before entering the freeway, you might want to take note of the on-ramp you will have to use. If you know the layout of the on-ramp and are aware of any potential obstacles, that can help you prepare for the merge in advance.
- Signal early: When it comes time to merge, always use your turn signal to indicate your intentions to other drivers. By signaling early, other drivers will have plenty of time to adjust their speed or position to accommodate your merge.
- Check blind spots: Before making any move, especially merging, check your mirrors and glance over your shoulder. You need to make sure that there are no other vehicles in your blind spots.
- Avoid distractions: During this time, you need to focus on the task of merging. This is not the time to use your mobile phone, adjust vehicle controls, or engage in other distracting activities.
Adhering to these tips can help you avoid a car accident in Houston. As the merging driver, it is your responsibility to maneuver safely on the road.
If You Don’t Merge Correctly, Can You Be Liable For An Accident?
Yes, if you do not merge correctly onto a freeway and an accident occurs as a result, you can be held liable. As noted, Texas traffic laws require merging drivers to yield to the existing traffic.
When you fail to do so, that can be considered negligence. In cases where that negligence leads to a car accident in Houston, you could be held responsible for damages and injuries. There are other legal consequences of not properly merging, such as:
- Traffic citations: The merging driver can be cited for traffic violations, such as failure to yield, reckless driving, or improper lane changes.
- Civil liability: The other driver can also be held liable for damages resulting from the accident. In these car crashes, damages can include medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Insurance increases: The merging driver’s insurance rates may increase since their insurer has to pay for damages up to the policy limits. If the damages exceed these limits, the driver might be personally liable for the excess amounts.
Merging onto a freeway in Texas can be dangerous for any driver. Under our state’s laws, you need to yield to other drivers as you merge onto these major roadways. Whenever encountering traffic, you should remain cautious and take precautions before driving alongside other vehicles.
If a driver who did not properly merge struck and injured you, you have options. In some cases, you could hold them accountable by filing an insurance claim or civil lawsuit if their negligent actions resulted in the crash. Consulting with an experienced Houston car accident lawyer can help you discover your next steps.