Zipper Merging Feels Like Getting Cut Off on Michigan Highways

This may go against every instinct you have, but to survive yet another Michigan construction season, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is asking us to 'take turns'. We are being asked to adopt 'Zipper Merging' into work zones, to save us hours of delays and frustration.

Related: Do You HAVE to Use a Turn Signal Merging Onto Michigan Highways?

Zipper merging goes against our orderly nature in Michigan. Upon seeing a "Merge" sign, most drivers will instinctively get into that lane a mile or so before the actual work begins. However, there are always the 'last minute mergers' who wait until the last possible moment to get over before their lane closes. So, which one is doing it right?

How to Properly 'Zipper Merge' into a Michigan Construction Zone

To properly understand how to zipper merge, imagine you're on a highway and you see that a construction zone goes to a single lane in 2 miles. Instead of immediately getting over into the construction lane, MDOT is asking for drivers to use both lanes right up until they come together in a work zone.

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Just like the zipper on your coat, pieces of metal will seamlessly join together in one harmonious line. MDOT claims this method will take 2 miles of delays down to just 1 mile, but it requires Michigan drivers to ignore their polite instinct to form a line as early as possible and not feel like someone is cutting in line.

This also requires Michigan's 'line monitors' to relax, you know who you are. The drivers who drive in the center of the two lanes to keep others from using both lanes. This is highly illegal and can result in reckless driving and/or obstructing traffic tickets and fines.

Related: Michiganders Can't Get This 1 Roundabout Rule Right

With yet another construction season upon us in Michigan, let's do everything we can to make it smoother for each other. Even if it means letting someone last-minute...I mean...Zipper Merge.