When merging with other traffic, what is the safest practice regarding gaps?

Allowing a gap of about 4 seconds for safety is the best practice when merging with other traffic. This time frame is significant because it gives you a buffer to safely enter the traffic flow without disrupting other drivers. By waiting for a gap of this length, you can assess the speed of vehicles around you and gauge whether it's safe to merge. This practice promotes smoother integration into the flow of traffic and helps prevent accidents that might occur due to abrupt lane changes or merging at an inappropriate time.

In busy situations, drivers may feel pressured to merge quickly; however, taking the time to identify a safe gap reduces the risk of collisions and enhances road safety for everyone. The other options focus on either delaying necessary merges or merging without regard for traffic patterns, which can be dangerous and lead to hazardous driving conditions.