Split-traffic interchange
A split-traffic interchange is any variation of an interchange in which opposing traffic is split between multiple on-ramps to go in the same direction upon entering a highway. These interchanges will typically have six or eight ramps. This is in contrast to the classic four-ramp interchange which requires all traffic to enter from a common ramp, giving the hitchhiker more exposure.
Split-traffic interchanges are the norm when two freeways or turnpikes intersect, but they become a problem for the hitchhiker when they are built at the interchange of a regular highway or roadway. These interchanges prevent traffic with a common directional goal on an intersecting highway from entering on the same ramp. Because of this, the hitchhiker must decide between two ramps to a highway without being exposed to traffic entering on the opposite ramp.
It is recommended upon coming to a split-traffic interchange that you count the number of cars entering each ramp in a given time period to determine which ramp has the most traffic and thus which ramp will be the best for catching a ride. It is also wise to inspect a road map to consider where traffic entering each ramp is coming from and where they are likely headed.
