OBSERVATION · LESSON 02
Joining the motorway:
where and when to look.
Build a picture of the traffic before you move left.
Follow one entry from the approach to the moment you join.
One situation. One useful driving habit.
Look early
Read the traffic when it becomes visible.
Keep it current
Watch ahead and use the mirrors along the lane.
Check before moving
Check the left blind spot at the right moment.
Based on Rijprocedure B, July 2026 · Independent learning support alongside driving lessons.
MIRRORS & BLIND SPOTS · MOTORWAY ENTRY
Where should you look when joining a motorway?
On an ordinary motorway entry from the right, read the motorway traffic as early as the view allows. Assess its speed and spacing so you can plan a possible gap. Along the acceleration lane, keep the road and lead vehicle ahead in view while using the mirrors to update the traffic behind and alongside.
Look early, keep the picture current, then check before moving
The orange car in this English-language trainer is preparing to join behind a passing silver car. Watch how each observation has a different purpose: early traffic assessment, awareness of the lead vehicle, mirror checks along the acceleration lane and a brief left shoulder check just before moving across.
Adapt your speed to the motorway traffic and the vehicle ahead on the acceleration lane. Give a left signal in good time. The signal communicates your intention; it does not make motorway traffic give way. Join smoothly into the nearest motorway lane only when you can do so safely without hindering that traffic, and keep observing.
When should you check the blind spot when merging?
Make a brief check over your left shoulder just before joining, when there is a real opportunity to move across. Check beside the car rather than looking far back. Keep your course steady, return your attention ahead and keep track of the vehicle in front.
Should you keep looking at the gap until you merge?
Keep updating the gap and surrounding traffic while maintaining awareness ahead. One long look to the side can make you miss a slowing lead vehicle. Use relevant mirror checks and the view ahead to maintain one current traffic picture.
When should you start looking at motorway traffic?
Start as early as the road layout and visibility allow on the approach. The aim is to understand traffic speed and spacing before the final move, rather than leaving every observation until the end of the acceleration lane.
In Dutch driving lessons, this topic is kijktechniek bij invoegen: observation when joining a motorway. This example covers an ordinary entry from the right; it does not cover a combined entry/exit lane or a taper merge. Practise the actual driving with your instructor.
Based on CBR Rijprocedure B, July 2026, §3.4. Driving Test Decoder is independent of CBR.
Related observation lesson: mirror and blind spot checks before moving off →