The ZIPPER law

[TooColdNJ]

Posted elsewhere as well. Maybe enough people will read this to make a difference.

The ZIPPER Law. Cars traveling north on Buena Vista should learn how to merge due to the right lane closure. Even the merge sign demonstrates where the merge takes place. The half-mile backup of traffic in the left lane CAN be avoided, and I find myself the only driver doing so- slowly.

Instead of having the front end of your car partway into the left lane a mile before you need to, while hoping that some courteous driver will let you “cut in line” and being cursed at or given the finger when trying, there’s actually a system in place:

Merge like a zipper- use BOTH lanes, PLEASE.
One car merges from the blocked lane, then a car from the open lane can pass, then the next car should let one car over from the blocked lane, and so on. This pattern continues until all cars are through the merge zone, representing a zipper.

A zipper merge can keep traffic flowing in BOTH lanes by bringing some organization to the merging process. The zipper merge keeps traffic moving more smoothly, compared to a less structured approach. It sure beats people moving up, purposely not letting you in, and waiting in a long left lane way before the actual merge. The sign shows both lanes used before the closure.

[Mortal1]

So tell me why the "zipper" thingee wouldn't work when it says right lane closed ahead? In truth...it does and works much better when people get into the open lane asap. When you wait till the end is when you'll get flipped off because you're trying to get ahead of those who chose to do it early and properly. Any other reason is bogus and self centered.

[Mortal1]

the sign...doesn't show where you should merge...IT SHOWS WHERE THE RIGHT(OR LEFT)LANE ENDS!!!!! You're supposed to be in the open lane long before. Sheesh. You'd think adults would base this sort of decision on common sense...not waiting till you have no choice.

[Bogie Shooter]

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/zipper-merges-317532/?highlight=Zipper

[Stu from NYC]

Guess we have a new thing to argue about

[Bill14564]

Get real, plenty of self centered run right up in right lane pass the line knowing some on will let them in. Why do they do that? Self centered A-hs

Or, just possibly, these are drivers who are experienced with zipper merges and understand, as studies show, that using both lanes and zippering at the end moves traffic more efficiently.

(I believe links to the studies were posted in the previous thread mentioned above)

[Dotneko]

Too many would be traffic cops who dont understand how zipper merges work. God forbid you try to explain to them that there are actual, scientific studies why they do work. They always know better.

[jswirs]

Posted elsewhere as well. Maybe enough people will read this to make a difference.

The ZIPPER Law. Cars traveling north on Buena Vista should learn how to merge due to the right lane closure. Even the merge sign demonstrates where the merge takes place. The half-mile backup of traffic in the left lane CAN be avoided, and I find myself the only driver doing so- slowly.

Instead of having the front end of your car partway into the left lane a mile before you need to, while hoping that some courteous driver will let you “cut in line” and being cursed at or given the finger when trying, there’s actually a system in place:

Merge like a zipper- use BOTH lanes, PLEASE.
One car merges from the blocked lane, then a car from the open lane can pass, then the next car should let one car over from the blocked lane, and so on. This pattern continues until all cars are through the merge zone, representing a zipper.

A zipper merge can keep traffic flowing in BOTH lanes by bringing some organization to the merging process. The zipper merge keeps traffic moving more smoothly, compared to a less structured approach. It sure beats people moving up, purposely not letting you in, and waiting in a long left lane way before the actual merge. The sign shows both lanes used before the closure.

I hear what you are saying, and I agree 100%, with one exception: Anyone who wants to cut in line will continue to do so, no matter what they read or what someone tells them. Same as the maskers vs anti-maskers, nothing will change their mind to go one way or the other. It's just the way it is, we all must accept this type of attitude. Either accept it or move to an area where there are very few people.

[thevillages2013]

Sorry Mr zipper I didn’t mean to flip you off I was just having a bad day

[Cobullymom]

I hear what you are saying, and I agree 100%, with one exception: Anyone who wants to cut in line will continue to do so, no matter what they read or what someone tells them. Same as the maskers vs anti-maskers, nothing will change their mind to go one way or the other. It's just the way it is, we all must accept this type of attitude. Either accept it or move to an area where there are very few people.
Cut in line?? Like that brief second of time really makes a difference in someone’s life? And these are majority retirees who shouldn’t be in a hurry anyway.....

[Cobullymom]

Get real, plenty of self centered run right up in right lane pass the line knowing some on will let them in. Why do they do that? Self centered A-hs
Yeah your thoughts, maybe those who understand how it actually works and are following it....and that slight hesitation it causes you, maybe enough to get out a yawn...such an inconvenience to life...

[DIver0258]

Guess we have a new thing to argue about

How do you propose we merge in The Village of Stu? Will we be forced to merge in The Village of Stu?

[MarkD1981]

I hear what you are saying, and I agree 100%, with one exception: Anyone who wants to cut in line will continue to do so, no matter what they read or what someone tells them. Same as the maskers vs anti-maskers, nothing will change their mind to go one way or the other. It's just the way it is, we all must accept this type of attitude. Either accept it or move to an area where there are very few people.

There isn’t cutting in line when you use the zipper. Both lanes have about the same number of cars.

[nick demis]

Both lanes are open until you reach the obstruction. The other day some ****** pulled half way into the other lane to prevent traffic from flowing in that lane 1/2+ mile before the lane closed. This wanabe cop needs to be arrested for hindering the flow of traffic. And you wonder where road rage comes from?

[Sandy and Ed]

So tell me why the "zipper" thingee wouldn't work when it says right lane closed ahead? In truth...it does and works much better when people get into the open lane asap. When you wait till the end is when you'll get flipped off because you're trying to get ahead of those who chose to do it early and properly. Any other reason is bogus and self centered.
USE THE ZIPPER!!! IF every driver used this method NO-ONE would get flipped off. Why would anyone want to merge a mile BEFORE the merge occurs???? When I drive right up to the merge point I am not trying to beat anyone or cut in line, I am merging. One logical suggestion however would be to reduce the speed limit at the point where the merge warning is given. Unfortunately not many seem to do that

[IRISHGIRL3US]

I thought this was a N.J. thing. People are more courteous to the left, right. Left, right. (Zipper). Perhaps we were taught this in drivers Ed. Or just common sense.

[jimkerr]

You gotta love TV drivers!

[airdale2]

Rolling roadblocks always work, but illegal.

[TooColdNJ]

So tell me why the "zipper" thingee wouldn't work when it says right lane closed ahead? In truth...it does and works much better when people get into the open lane asap. When you wait till the end is when you'll get flipped off because you're trying to get ahead of those who chose to do it early and properly. Any other reason is bogus and self centered.

That’s very true! It’s the grumpy, self centered drivers that pull up and won’t let you in at all, especially at the very end. They’re probably the ones who cut you off on the road everywhere as well- as if it’ll get them somewhere faster. Either they just don't know about the law, don’t understand the concept, or they’re aggressive drivers. You can slip in before the end, where a car or two keep their distance in line. If they didn’t want anyone in the right lane at all, maybe the sign would have x’s on the right lane so no one can drive in it. A merge is a merge, regardless. I was in the car with an aggressive driver once, and it was scary. The two cars wouldn’t let either merge first and got so close to one another that i was worried I’d be hit on the passenger side.

[randykw]

Learned about the Zipper Merge living the the Twin Cities area. Works great when drivers cooperate.

[1948JDG]

Hey, do you think "common sense" would work? Why not give it a try.

[jneibert]

Cut in line?? Like that brief second of time really makes a difference in someone’s life? And these are majority retirees who shouldn’t be in a hurry anyway.....
I hear the argument that we are all retired all the time. You may be retired, but most of us still have a life. Doctor's appointments, golf tee times, meetings with set start times, card games, exercise times, dinner reservations, etc. are all good reasons not to poke along.

[TooColdNJ]

I hear the argument that we are all retired all the time. You may be retired, but most of us still have a life. Doctor's appointments, golf tee times, meetings with set start times, card games, exercise times, dinner reservations, etc. are all good reasons not to poke along.

True, but there are always alternate routes. If you travel in that area and first see the closure, next time I/you/they could plan ahead and leave a few minutes earlier for an appointment. It’s not that the wait is forever- there’s just a better way.

[CFrance]

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/zipper-merges-317532/?highlight=Zipper
They do this in Western PA, however to avoid confusion and road rage (common in Western PA), they put a sign at the beginning that says Use Both Lanes and Take Turns at Merge.

I'm not going to risk Florida road rage by zipping up the empty lane, even if I'm right. Too much carry concealed around here.:duck:

[J1ceasar]

There are too many self-centered egotistical people who live in this area they will believe they are more important than everybody else and therefore your system will not work. I'm from Jersey New York also and believe me I've seen it all especially driving up and down the parkway and the turnpike and going into New York over the bridges they won't give you an inch.

[TooColdNJ]

. Either accept it or move to an area where there are very few people.

Why is it that when someone posts a “complaint” about the Villages, someone else always seizes the opportunity to suggest that if you don’t like it they should move somewhere else- “where there are less people.” It was nothing other than an observation, along with providing info as a solution for people who don’t know about it and now do- not a complaint. I’m in no rush. If I know about the closure the first time I’m there, I’ll plan an alternate route or leave five minutes earlier. I’m just amazed that any time I travel in that area, I see the sheeples all following in a line. Maybe those people CAME FROM an area where there were less people and have no clue how to maneuver roundabouts or lane closures.

[Cobullymom]

I hear the argument that we are all retired all the time. You may be retired, but most of us still have a life. Doctor's appointments, golf tee times, meetings with set start times, card games, exercise times, dinner reservations, etc. are all good reasons not to poke along.
And my point exactly, if people use it properly, both lanes you can move along...but apparently that’s too difficult for some...And yes most are retired and that brief second you have to put your brakes, to let them merge on is not going to make the difference if your late...a tee time, card games...lol, so urgent....and BTW I do live here and WORK...

[wrestle1]

They do this in Western PA, however to avoid confusion and road rage (common in Western PA), they put a sign at the beginning that says Use Both Lanes and Take Turns at Merge.

I'm not going to risk Florida road rage by zipping up the empty lane, even if I'm right. Too much carry concealed around here.:duck:
Zipper method is the most efficient and reduces anger if everyone uses it. Unfortunately it’s not a law so it needs to be an education issue through proper signage at closures. Some jurisdictions choose to use the signage and it works well.

[jjp2532]

One of my pet peeves. The zipper works but most people think you’re cheating. Truckers especially on the highway prevent people from trying to zipper in. It has been researched and the zipper method is the most efficient way to control lane merger.

[Linda Taranto]

To me, common sense would be to use both lanes and merge when you're at the cones, then every other car merge. They do this in other states and do have a sign that says "use both lanes until merge point" or something like that.
Makes sense to me.

[JoeinFL]

Guess we have a new thing to argue about

No we don’t!!!
Lol

[mike234]

if you really think drivers are ever going to drive with respect to other drivers, you are smoking the drapes. it's not going to happen.
for every fool you encounter, there is one waiting just ahead for you. left lane drivers, just pass them on the right, and flip the bird if you want to. bad roundabout drivers, that's one that is never going to end. merging drivers at construction sites, good luck. conforming people to your zipper nonsense. ha ha. bad parking at stores, that's never going to end. it's like different views on politics, race and nationalities, it is never going to end.

[Mohawksin]

For all the 'non-zippers', how do you deal with the situation were the left lane extends back to and beyond the previous round-about and there is traffic coming in from the right?

[argos5usa]

Sounds like every day on every freeway in L.A.

[argos5usa]

I didn't realize that there were so many Amish here...

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

Posted elsewhere as well. Maybe enough people will read this to make a difference.

The ZIPPER Law. Cars traveling north on Buena Vista should learn how to merge due to the right lane closure. Even the merge sign demonstrates where the merge takes place. The half-mile backup of traffic in the left lane CAN be avoided, and I find myself the only driver doing so- slowly.

Instead of having the front end of your car partway into the left lane a mile before you need to, while hoping that some courteous driver will let you “cut in line” and being cursed at or given the finger when trying, there’s actually a system in place:

Merge like a zipper- use BOTH lanes, PLEASE.
One car merges from the blocked lane, then a car from the open lane can pass, then the next car should let one car over from the blocked lane, and so on. This pattern continues until all cars are through the merge zone, representing a zipper.

A zipper merge can keep traffic flowing in BOTH lanes by bringing some organization to the merging process. The zipper merge keeps traffic moving more smoothly, compared to a less structured approach. It sure beats people moving up, purposely not letting you in, and waiting in a long left lane way before the actual merge. The sign shows both lanes used before the closure.

A problem occurs when the people in the open lane do not allow people in the closed lane to merge.

A better solution is to simply avoid that area of Buena Vista if at all possible.

Where on Buena Vista is this?

[pianoman88]

"Merge properly?" The zipper theory is the correct one. But with canceled carry being the rule down here, I don't think it's a good idea.

[kendi]

Agree with the OP. When everyone drives as far as possible in their lane before merging there is much less of a back up. Read that awhile ago on a Department of Transportation post. As far as merging using the zipper method, I find that most drivers are courteous enough to do this without being reminded.

[TooColdNJ]

A problem occurs when the people in the open lane do not allow people in the closed lane to merge.

A better solution is to simply avoid that area of Buena Vista if at all possible.

Where on Buena Vista is this?

The intersection of buena vista and 466A.
Lol... it might even be gone by now! :clap2: Check it out and LMK if there are any drivers in the right lane
.:icon_wink:

[karostay]

Retired no schedule wait till 5 pm situation avoided

[Daddymac]

Both lanes are open until you reach the obstruction. The other day some ****** pulled half way into the other lane to prevent traffic from flowing in that lane 1/2+ mile before the lane closed. This wanabe cop needs to be arrested for hindering the flow of traffic. And you wonder where road rage comes from?

Block the Lane, or you will have The privilege running up a 1/2 + mile to jump the line !! BRAVO BLOCK THE LANE..
:bigbow: :boom: :boxing2:

[Bogie Shooter]

Rolling roadblocks always work, but illegal.

Them big semis do that all the time on the interstates.

[BumpaOompa]

Any queue study ever done proves the zipper merge is the most efficient process for merging one lane into another. The problem is most people have never heard of it and can’t possibly imagine that there is a better way. If nothing else, maybe a few closed minded people are now more educated and the use of the zipper merge method will increase. Either way, as the younger generation arrives so will more progressive thought.

[Bogie Shooter]

The intersection of buena vista and 466A.
Lol... it might even be gone by now! :clap2: Check it out and LMK if there are any drivers in the right lane
.:icon_wink:

Gone? All that intelligent information to retain till next “Merge Ahead “ :1rotfl:

[DAVES]

USE THE ZIPPER!!! IF every driver used this method NO-ONE would get flipped off. Why would anyone want to merge a mile BEFORE the merge occurs???? When I drive right up to the merge point I am not trying to beat anyone or cut in line, I am merging. One logical suggestion however would be to reduce the speed limit at the point where the merge warning is given. Unfortunately not many seem to do that


If, only everyone was as perfect as I think I am. Then, there is reality.

[Roslinb]

The zipper merge works by simply having drivers delay their merge until the lane has come to an end. Then, at the precise point of the bottleneck, drivers from each lane take turns entering the gap, like a zipper.
The most obvious benefit is reduced congestion. Cramming into one lane can double the length of a line of traffic and cause unnecessary road blockages to fan out for miles behind the bottleneck.
Second, the zipper merge is fair. The simple mantra of “stay in your own lane until the bottleneck” prevents the stress and anarchy of jockeying for position in a single lane. Cutting no longer has a clear path to the front of the line.
And, incredibly, the zipper merge might even be faster. A 2004 study by the Virginia Transportation Research Council found that under ideal conditions, the smooth efficiency of the zipper merge results in a faster movement of traffic through the bottleneck.
-the National

[Joe V.]

"Merge properly?" The zipper theory is the correct one. But with canceled carry being the rule down here, I don't think it's a good idea.

It is "concealed carry". Bogus argument. Any adult who can lawfully own or buy a gun can lawfully carry in their car. No license necessary.

[CFrance]

Any queue study ever done proves the zipper merge is the most efficient process for merging one lane into another. The problem is most people have never heard of it and can’t possibly imagine that there is a better way. If nothing else, maybe a few closed minded people are now more educated and the use of the zipper merge method will increase. Either way, as the younger generation arrives so will more progressive

.
I don't think progressive thought has anything to do with it. I think the problem is the lack of communication skills of the road department. Put up a darn sign that says use both lanes and take turns at the merge.

[Hibiscus39]

So true.

[kimreniska@mac.com]

the sign...doesn't show where you should merge...IT SHOWS WHERE THE RIGHT(OR LEFT)LANE ENDS!!!!! You're supposed to be in the open lane long before. Sheesh. You'd think adults would base this sort of decision on common sense...not waiting till you have no choice.

It is better to keep your mouth closed and have people think you a fool rather than open it and remove any doubt.

[JohnN]

I don't think progressive thought has anything to do with it. I think the problem is the lack of communication skills of the road department. Put up a darn sign that says use both lanes and take turns at the merge.

That's a tough concept for the government, but a great idea.

[Itsallinthegrip]

The zipper as you call it it’s basically used when when there is an accident within multiple lanes and ties of traffic in multiple lanes at the time of the occurrence. It was not designed for people who think they are too good to wait for their place in line and run up the right side of traffic and cut in when they have had ample warning.

[Stu from NYC]

I don't think progressive thought has anything to do with it. I think the problem is the lack of communication skills of the road department. Put up a darn sign that says use both lanes and take turns at the merge.

A sign would be a great idea, would have thought someone working somewhere in the govt would have thought of it by now

[Garywt]

I never heard it called the zipper but I agree that there are studies that say to have both lanes go to the point of the actual merge as it works the best that way. The real issue are the people that leave 2,3 or more car lengths in front of them. You need to keep up with the car in front of you for it to work.

[Ashimp]

A Google zipper merge search shows Central Florida Expressway explicitly says to zipper merge, as does the DMV in several states.

[Villages Kahuna]

Yeah, right. The really important people will refuse to cooperate for sure.

[Mortal1]

The zipper merge works by simply having drivers delay their merge until the lane has come to an end. Then, at the precise point of the bottleneck, drivers from each lane take turns entering the gap, like a zipper.
The most obvious benefit is reduced congestion. Cramming into one lane can double the length of a line of traffic and cause unnecessary road blockages to fan out for miles behind the bottleneck.
Second, the zipper merge is fair. The simple mantra of “stay in your own lane until the bottleneck” prevents the stress and anarchy of jockeying for position in a single lane. Cutting no longer has a clear path to the front of the line.
And, incredibly, the zipper merge might even be faster. A 2004 study by the Virginia Transportation Research Council found that under ideal conditions, the smooth efficiency of the zipper merge results in a faster movement of traffic through the bottleneck.
-the National

is exactly why it takes so long to get through that choke point. If all those who think that way would just get in the open lane asap you'd have less wait time to get through the congestion. That logic defies common sense. Waiting to the last minute to get in the open lane causes all the wait issues and is only used by those who don't wish to wait...ie:selfish.

[Dotneko]

is exactly why it takes so long to get through that choke point. If all those who think that way would just get in the open lane asap you'd have less wait time to get through the congestion. That logic defies common sense. Waiting to the last minute to get in the open lane causes all the wait issues and is only used by those who don't wish to wait...ie:selfish.

Despite all evidence to the contrary - State laws quoted, research cited, you still cling to your belief and want us all to get on your parade float. Give it up. You are wrong.

[Stu from NYC]

If the zipper is true station a cop by the first lane closed sign and have him point to a car and than point to stay in the lane.

And of course signs would be a good idea as well

[DeanFL]

.
.
One day a couple weeks ago, I went to Lowes on 466a (went there thru Pinellas, not on 466a). Coming back I wanted to take 466a to Buena Vista to take my right turn to Pinellas. I was in the right lane and saw the sign WAY up for the merge into one lane. I wasn't sure if the merge was PAST B.V.

All of a sudden this guy in a BMW convert passed me in the left lane, and started shifting to intentially block the right lane. I was dumbfounded because there were at least 30 cars in front in that middle lane. As I slowed - I really didn't want to be in the middle lane as I was going to take the right. So I passed him and he BLARED the horn. WTF? I continued in the right lane and saw that the merge sign and lights were JUST BEFORE the BV intersection. Someone let me merge and then I made the quick right onto BV.

I thought, after knowing the merge was at that point - did the BMWr guy NEED to be a martyr? Then sseeing the Zipper-thing... yikes - why NOT just go closer to the ACTUAL merge and ziiip?
.
.

[TooColdNJ]

No we don’t!!!
Lol

Actually it’s refreshing- sure beats political rhetoric!