Why don't people 'zip merge' when a lane is closed on a motorway?

Please can you give some publicity to the benefits of zip merging, which occasionally, at long-term roadworks, is encouraged with signage. This is the exception, though. When roadworks or a crash force two lanes into one, the signage usually instructs drivers to leave the obstructed lane in good time. Usually the lane in use is at a standstill and it is difficult to move over. If drivers are encouraged to occupy both lanes up to the closure, both queues tend to become equal. Then, merging into the authorised lane alternately with those already there does not mean "jumping the queue". If "one for one" becomes accepted as the norm, nobody gains an unfair advantage and time is gained by all.

Asked on 8 April 2012 by GT, via email

Answered by Honest John
Quite right. It isn‘t selfish not to join a queue in these circumstances. Drivers should learn to ’zip’ or merge in turn.
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