Merge Ahead Sign

Introduction

As lanes combine or roadways narrow, drivers must adjust their speed and positioning to maintain safe traffic flow. The Merge Ahead Sign is a common Canadian road sign that alerts drivers a lane is merging with theirs from the right. Understanding this sign is crucial for safe highway driving and is tested in the Ontario G1 written exam.

What Does the Merge Ahead Sign Mean?

This sign warns that another traffic lane will merge into your lane from the right, requiring cooperation with merging vehicles. It features:

• A thick upward black arrow, representing the main road

• A merging line joining from the right side

• A yellow diamond-shaped background, indicating caution or warning

It does not specify a speed change, but warns of an upcoming shift in traffic flow.

Where Are Merge Signs Typically Placed?

You’ll find this sign before:

• On-ramps to highways or expressways

• Construction areas where lanes are reduced

• City roads that merge into main arterial routes

• Rural highways with sudden lane reductions

It’s placed well before the merge point—usually 150–250 meters—to give time for lane adjustments.

How Should Drivers Respond to the Merge Sign?

When you see this sign:

• Check your mirrors and blind spots

• Be prepared to yield to traffic already in the main lane

• Adjust your speed to allow a safe and smooth merge

• Use turn signals when changing lanes

• Never block merging vehicles deliberately
  Failure to follow merging rules may cause:

  • Side collisions or forced braking

  • Traffic congestion and road rage incidents

  • Test deductions or failure on the G1 exam

Visual Representation of the Sign

The sign shows a solid arrow moving straight up with a smaller line joining from the right, displayed on a yellow diamond to clearly warn drivers of merging traffic.

Conclusion

The Merge Ahead Sign is essential for maintaining safe and efficient traffic movement. Knowing how to respond to merging situations is not just required for the Ontario G1 test, but also vital for being a responsible and courteous driver.