ICBC British Columbia Written Exam Practice Test 2025

Which vehicle has the right of way when merging onto a highway?

1. The vehicle merging onto the highway

2. The vehicle already on the highway

3. The vehicle behind the merging vehicle

4. The vehicle approaching from the side road

The correct answer is: The vehicle already on the highway

When merging onto a highway, the vehicle already on the highway has the right of way. This rule is in place to ensure the safety and smooth flow of traffic. Vehicles that are on the highway are typically traveling at higher speeds, and it is important for those merging to yield to them to prevent accidents and facilitate safe merging. The merging vehicle must assess the speed and distance of the traffic already on the highway and adjust its speed to find an appropriate gap to safely enter the highway. By yielding to vehicles already on the highway, the merging driver helps maintain the flow of traffic and reduces the risk of collisions, which can occur if merging vehicles force their way into another lane without sufficient space or speed adjustment. In contrast, vehicles that are merging, those behind the merging vehicle, and vehicles approaching from side roads do not have the priority when it comes to highway traffic. This rule emphasizes the responsibility of merging drivers to ensure they enter the highway safely and without disrupting the flow of existing traffic.