When exiting a freeway, what lane should you first enter?

When exiting a freeway, it is important to first enter the deceleration lane. This lane is specifically designed to allow vehicles to safely reduce their speed before they merge into local roads or intersections. The deceleration lane provides a space where drivers can transition from the higher speeds typical of freeway driving to the lower speeds needed for surface streets, helping to prevent abrupt stopping and maintain the flow of traffic.

Entering a deceleration lane allows for a smoother and safer exit, as it typically has a gradual decline in speed and is separate from the main flow of freeway traffic. This design helps to minimize the risk of accidents that could occur if drivers were to slow down suddenly while still in the fast-moving traffic lanes.