Georgia DDS Practice Test

Before merging into traffic from a parked position, what should you do?

1. Signal and pull out immediately

2. Signal and wait until it's safe

3. Honk your horn and merge quickly

4. Check your mirrors and accelerate

The correct answer is: Signal and wait until it's safe

When merging into traffic from a parked position, it is essential to signal and wait until it's safe to do so. This procedure ensures that you communicate your intentions to other drivers, giving them time to adjust their speed or position in response. Waiting until it is safe means you should assess the traffic situation by checking for approaching vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians. This careful evaluation helps prevent accidents and allows you to enter the roadway confidently and safely. In contrast, signaling and pulling out immediately does not take into account the surrounding traffic, which could lead to dangerous situations. Honking your horn while merging quickly can also create confusion and does not guarantee safety. Simply checking your mirrors and accelerating does not ensure that it is safe to merge, as it lacks the necessary signaling and assessment of oncoming traffic. Thus, the correct approach focuses on signaling and ensuring it is safe before merging into traffic.