The freeway reduces from four lanes to three near the Warrigal Road off-ramps in both directions, often catching drivers by surprise and causing many to swerve or cut across lanes unpredictably.

The lane changes have also resulted in regular bottlenecks on the freeway extending back to Huntingdale Road, especially during peak hour.

RACV general manager of public policy Brian Negus said the section was a risk to drivers’ lives.

He urged VicRoads to reconsider the design of the exit and to add an extra lane.

‘‘The remainder of the Monash freeway will contain four lanes in each direction, so the RACV believes this section of road must be amended to assist the consistency of the freeway and ensure a safe operation for motorists.

‘‘A lot of people from the Monash area will use the freeway, and they have probably experienced this horrific situation. The current layout poses a massive safety threat to both them and the traffic flow along the freeway.’’

Monash Mayor Paul Klisaris backed the RACV’s push to have the exit reconstructed, describing the section of road as ‘‘a nightmare’’ during peak hour.

“We have got to trust the judgement of respected stakeholders such as the RACV. They are a good indicator on matters like this, and if they believe this exit could cause havoc in the future, then we should look at improving it for the safety of all drivers.” He added that if improvements were not logistically possible, drivers needed to take extra care around the exit.

Roads Minister Tim Pallas rejected the RACV’s appeals, claiming the section of the freeway had been thoroughly reviewed.

‘‘The RACV are wrong in my opinion, in the opinion of the independent experts, and in the opinion of the team [responsible for the road-widening project].’’