When leaving the interstate, when should you start to prepare for your exit?

Starting to prepare for your exit one mile or more before the intended exit is crucial for safe driving. This approach allows you to gradually reduce your speed and merge into the appropriate lane without causing sudden disruptions for you or other drivers.

By positioning yourself in the correct lane well in advance, you minimize the risk of last-minute lane changes, which can lead to accidents or contribute to traffic congestion. Additionally, it gives you ample time to check mirrors, signal your intentions to other motorists, and make any necessary adjustments to your speed in a calm and controlled manner.

In contrast, waiting until you are at the exit ramp or just seeing the exit sign can lead to hasty decisions that might compromise safety. These actions can require abrupt maneuvers, increasing the likelihood of a collision. Leaving it until after passing the last exit means you've missed your opportunity to exit safely, forcing you to continue driving until the next available turn-off, which can cause frustration and potential hazards on the road.