This ignorant driver on Wheeler Rd refused to zipper merge behind a dashcam owner, risking a collision just to get ahead.
Suffolk County driver and Redditor /u/Elehugh shared headshaking dashcam footage from this particular two-lane merging into one location from earlier in April (Apr 22, 2026) to the /r/IdiotsInCars subreddit showing a driver in a Subaru refusing to take their turn, to slot behind OP, risking a sideswipe accident just so they could get their way.
Check out the close call below with the original Reddit thread linked here.
The incident happened on Wheeler Rd just after the Long Island Expressway North Service Rd (exact location on Google Maps linked here.)
As the dashcam shows, OP is headed northbound up Wheeler Rd, towards 454.
In New York and most US States (if not the world), drivers are encouraged to use the Zipper Merge Method at merge lane areas, to use both lanes fully, alternating taking turns at the merge point.
Drivers are encouraged not to merge early, to maintain their speed, and use their turn signals.
This Subaru driver did none of those things.
As the dashcam shows, OP is already past the point where cars should’ve merged; however, this Subaru driver insists on getting in front of OP.
The Subaru driver forces OP into a situation, risking a sideswipe accident.
Eventually, OP eases off the gas to let the Subaru in front.
Distance and time gained with this risky move? None, at all, the Subaru is now just slightly ahead of OP.
“Oh, Subaru understood, but too entitled to take their turn,” the top comment from /u/Jack3489 reads in response to OP’s title, assuming the Subaru driver doesn’t know what a zipper merge actually is.
“That’s frustrating op. Good on you for letting it go. We’re all in this s*** sandwich together,” /u/ParticularLab5828 commiserated with OP.
“Chances are, there was plenty of room behind you, too. These entitled pri**s are insufferable,” /u/biliken66 added/
There’s no specific ticket in New York just for “not zipper merging.” But if a driver refuses to merge properly and creates danger, they can be cited for things like failure to yield, unsafe lane change, or reckless driving under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law §1128 and related statutes. Penalties can range from ~$150–$300+ in fines and 2–3 points, up to heavier fines, 5 points, and possible misdemeanor charges if it rises to reckless driving.
