Which of the following is true about the function of acceleration lanes?

Acceleration lanes are specifically designed to facilitate the safe merging of vehicles onto a highway or higher-speed road. The primary function of these lanes is to give drivers the necessary distance and space to increase their speed to match that of the traffic on the main road. This gradual acceleration reduces the risk of collisions that can occur when a vehicle attempts to merge at a significantly slower speed than surrounding traffic.

Vehicles entering the highway can utilize the acceleration lane to adjust their speed before they merge with the existing traffic, maintaining a smoother flow on the roadway. This is particularly crucial for preventing abrupt stops or slowdowns that can rear-end accidents.

The other options do not accurately describe the purpose of acceleration lanes. They are not designated for emergency vehicles only, do not restrict their use to specific time frames such as peak traffic hours, and do not impose a time limit for increased speed. The primary and essential function of an acceleration lane is to provide safe and adequate space for vehicles to gain speed before entering faster-moving traffic.