Expressways have "expressway entrance lanes" (acceleration lanes) so that drivers can:
- Test their brakes before driving at expressway speeds
- Stop at the end to wait for a traffic opening
- Reach the proper speed before blending with traffic ✓
- Test the pickup of their cars
Answer: C. Reach the proper speed before blending with traffic
Expressway entrance lanes exist so drivers can reach the proper speed before blending with traffic.
Why this is the answer
The handbook treats the entrance ramp as the place to build up to expressway speed and merge when there is room. It says to use the ramp to accelerate unless a STOP sign, YIELD sign, or traffic light controls it, then signal and check over your shoulder. Stopping to wait is described only as a fallback when the entrance lane is too short to gain speed; it is not the everyday purpose of the lane.
Why the other answers are wrong
- A. Test their brakes before driving at expressway speeds — Testing brakes is not given as a purpose for the entrance lane; the lane is meant for gaining speed to merge.
- B. Stop at the end to wait for a traffic opening — Stopping at the end to wait for a gap is only a fallback when the entrance lane is too short, not the normal use of an acceleration lane.
- D. Test the pickup of their cars — Testing a car's pickup is not mentioned as a purpose; the handbook focuses on reaching expressway speed and merging safely.
Remember it
Treat the entrance lane as a build-up lane, not a waiting lane.