Defensive Driving || The Zipper Effect || Learn Efficient Driving In Days | Learn From the Expert

A zipper merge is a traffic management technique used when a lane is closed due to construction or other reasons. It encourages drivers to use both lanes until the point where one lane ends, rather than merging early. Once at the merge point, vehicles from each lane take turns merging into the open lane, like the interlocking teeth of a zipper—hence the name.

This method improves traffic flow and reduces congestion, especially in heavy traffic situations. Early merging can cause long backups and slower movement, while the zipper merge keeps both lanes moving smoothly for as long as possible. It's considered a more efficient and safer way to handle merges in these situations.