Police have confirmed that the correct way for drivers to merge lanes on UK roads is to use the "zip-merge" technique, keeping both lanes in use until the point of closure rather than moving over early.
The guidance addresses a common scenario in which traffic queues in the left-hand lane while the right-hand lane remains empty, a situation that frequently leads to frustration among motorists who view those using the empty lane as "jumping the queue."
What the Highway Code says
The proper technique for merging when two lanes converge into one at a set point is known as "zip-merging." Instead of pulling into a single lane as soon as a lane closure is signposted, drivers should take turns merging one at a time at the actual point of closure.
Highway Code rule 134 states: "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."
Why early merging creates longer queues
The police, Highway Code, RAC and National Highways all agree on the approach. Avon and Somerset Police said the technique "helps make full use of the available road space" and noted: "Problems tend to arise when drivers are unwilling to allow others to safely merge, or when motorists change lanes aggressively, without adequate observation, signalling or consideration for other road users."
National Highways echoed this guidance, stating: "By keeping both lanes in use until the merge point, congestion is minimised and journey reliability is improved."
The RAC said: "When motorists encounter a lane closure on a motorway or dual carriageway, the majority of drivers follow the etiquette of moving over early, but this creates one long, slow line of traffic and a near-empty outside lane. While motorists on the inside lane might think they're doing the right thing, it can be more beneficial to continue using the open lane until the last minute, utilising all of the available road and then 'merging in turn' at the point at which the road narrows to a single lane."
Penalties for incorrect merging
Drivers who deliberately block others from using the clearer lane could face prosecution for careless driving. The fixed penalty for careless driving now stands at £100 with 3 points on the driver's licence.
National Highways said: "Dangerous, careless or inconsiderate driving can occur if a driver forces their way into traffic, deliberately obstructs other vehicles, or carries out manoeuvres which create a risk of collision."
Motorists who encounter aggressive behaviour can submit dashcam footage to Operation Snap, a UK police scheme that allows members of the public to upload video evidence of suspected driving offences.
