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The Zipper Merge Effect
Spring road construction season approaches and drivers prepare for the onslaught of orange barrels. Some take this yearly inconvenience in stride. They accept the additional time to their daily commute and stock their vehicles with rations and travel urinals. For other drivers, though, it marks the beginning of a time defined by panic, impatience, ignorance, and the glory of competition. The flag drops at the unveiling of the sign reading Lane Closed Ahead.
The Lane Closed Ahead sign indicates drivers will need to share. Occasionally, it will tell them how many miles or feet ahead this monstrous act will occur. That is the amount of time they have to decide who they are.
The Submissive
She sees the Lane Closed Ahead sign and instantly moves to the lane that will remain open. There might be 12 miles until the merge, but she is not taking any chances. She demurely slows down to make room for everyone. She dislikes conflict and contemplates pulling over to the shoulder until the road work is complete.
The Assailant
This driver increases his speed at the sight of the sign and makes sure he is in the doomed lane. He knows his rights. He will ride or die to keep his pickup truck in that lane until the bitter end. Anyone…
