When should you start to slow down after deciding to exit the freeway?

The appropriate time to start slowing down after deciding to exit the freeway is five seconds before reaching the exit. This practice is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it allows for a gradual and safe deceleration, helping maintain control of the vehicle as you transition from the high-speed environment of the freeway to the relatively slower speed limits typically found on surface roads.

Additionally, beginning to slow down at this point helps ensure that you are not abrupt in your movement, which can be jarring for both your passengers and other drivers. It provides sufficient time to check for merge conditions or hazards as you prepare to exit. Proper timing is vital for ensuring that you safely clear the freeway without rushing, reducing the risk of collisions with vehicles behind you who may not anticipate a sudden stop.

Choosing to slow down at a different time than five seconds prior can lead to either too rapid a deceleration, which could unsettle the vehicle’s handling, or not enough time to adjust your speed appropriately for the off-ramp, leading to potential safety issues.