Which type of interchange is commonly used where a freeway crosses a minor road?

The diamond interchange is commonly used where a freeway crosses a minor road due to its efficient design that allows for quick and safe merging and exiting. This type of interchange features two ramps that connect the freeway to the minor road, which creates a diamond shape when viewed from above.

The design facilitates a smooth flow of traffic with minimal conflict points, making it particularly suitable for locations where there is a significant volume of vehicles transitioning between different road types. The layout allows for straightforward left-turn movements and the ability to handle directional traffic without requiring extensive land use or complicated geometric configurations.

In comparison, other types of interchanges, such as cloverleafs or roundabouts, could require more space and are typically used in scenarios with higher traffic volumes or where more complex movements between major streets are necessary. The split diamond interchange, while similar to a diamond interchange, often caters to more complex flows and is less commonly implemented than the standard diamond design.