Michigan transportation officials and state police are urging drivers to embrace the zipper merge technique as summer construction season coincides with peak travel periods.
The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and Michigan State Police emphasize that proper zipper merging - where drivers use both lanes until the merge point and then alternate into the open lane - can help prevent traffic backups in construction zones.
“If we needed you back further, we would have moved the arrow back further,” says MDOT spokesperson Diane Cross, addressing the common misconception that early merging is more courteous.
Michigan State Police F/Lt. Mike Shaw said utilizing both lanes until the merge point is the most efficient approach.
“There’s no reason for everyone to get over to one lane and leave a bunch of area empty because that creates a bigger backup,” Shaw says.
Despite official recommendations, many drivers remain hesitant about late merging. Jackie Weigand identifies as an early merger, believing it’s more respectful.
“I don’t have to fight with people to get through,” she says.
Driver Carl Jett shares similar concerns about last-minute merging, considering it potentially dangerous.
Shaw warns against drivers who intentionally block lanes to prevent others from merging, noting that such behavior constitutes illegal traffic impediment.
Cross acknowledges that while early merging can reduce conflict, the zipper merge system works best when all drivers cooperate. “It’s good courtesy to do it earlier if you can. That just reduces the chances of conflict, any road rage, down at the merge point,” she says.
Driver Justin Carvin advocates for mutual courtesy at merge points. “I absolutely let people over because I would want the same courtesy shown to me,” he says.
David Kirchgasler, another local driver, recognizes the theoretical benefits of the zipper merge while acknowledging current challenges. “If everyone did it, it would make sense. I know people get angry because they have waited in line and cars zip by,” he says.
Transportation officials note that while the zipper merge system can effectively manage traffic flow, its success depends on driver cooperation and understanding. They caution against excessive courtesy, as letting multiple vehicles merge simultaneously can create new backups and frustrate other drivers.
