How can I know if a U.S. interstate exit will have a return entrance ramp?
When driving on a US interstate highway, how will I know if an upcoming exit ramp will be followed by an entrance ramp to re-enter the highway after exiting? (e.g. if I need a gas station or food break)
In rural stretches re-entry is almost always possible—but not always. In cities, especially where various freeways meet, I feel like re-entry is much less common. But how to know in advance without trial-and-error?
(When I started driving I had erroneously thought that if the exit says "Exit only" in yellow, there would be no return entrance, but I now believe this refers to the specific lane being forced to exit, which is really nothing to do with ability to re-enter after exiting.)
Best Answer
The easy way to find out is if the sign board for the services (food, gas, ATM, etc.) is on the highway or not.
If the sign is on the highway, then you are guaranteed a return to the interstate - it may not be straightforward, but it will be there.
The "Exit Only" means that this lane is only for exit, and it does not allow further (straight through) travel.
Depending on the design of the overpass, you may have an exit lane, followed by an entry lane for traffic coming from the opposite side and this would allow you to carry on straight through under the overpass.
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What is an entrance ramp?
Entrance ramp means any public road or turning roadway, including acceleration lanes, by which traffic enters the main traveled way of a limited-access facility from the general street system; such designation applying to that portion of the roadway along which there is full control of access.How many highway exits are there in the United States?
Re: How many Interstate Exits are there? My colleague found a web site that indicates that there are over 17,000 exits.Highways: Entering \u0026 Exiting
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Answer 2
It's called a MAP. Get one, look at it, it will show on ramps and off ramps, and how to get from one to the other.
There is no traffic sign to indicate whether there is a nearby on ramp to match your off ramp. But there should always be a way to get to one, even if it means driving a long distance on backroads.
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