Use the zipper.
That’s the message from Colorado State Patrol when it comes to approaching lane closures in construction zones or in heavy traffic.
“The ‘zipper merge,’ isn’t just courteous, it helps in keeping traffic moving smoothly, reduces backups, and makes roadways safer for drivers,” a CSP news release said.
When drivers wait to merge until the designated merge point, and take alternating turns entering the lane of traffic, traffic is able to use more available road space and reduces congestion, the release continued.
“Drivers already in the open travel lane should avoid blocking the merge lane and welcome drivers to go to the end before alternating with vehicles to enter,” said Col. Mathew Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “They aren’t acting aggressive, those driver