Intersections and T-junctions

By the end of this topic you can

• You can identify whether an intersection is controlled or uncontrolled.
• You can approach in the correct lane and position.
• You can apply give way rules at lights, signs and T-intersections.
• You can scan for pedestrians, cyclists and motorbikes before you go.

What you need to know and understand

• You must not enter an intersection if you cannot drive through it and into the road you want, because you may block traffic.
• When turning right, you may move into the intersection and wait near the centre for oncoming traffic, if it is safe and the road ahead is clear.
• On multi-lane roads, turn left from the left lane and right from the right lane unless arrows show otherwise.
• You must not change lanes across a continuous white line approaching an intersection.
• At a T-intersection with no signs or lines, the terminating road is the stem of the T.
• A modified T-intersection has signs or lines that make another road the terminating road.

Controlled intersections

• Traffic lights: follow the signal. When turning at lights, give way to pedestrians crossing the road you enter. Turning right on a green circle, you give way to oncoming traffic.
• Stop sign or line: stop completely, then give way to vehicles from other directions.
• Give Way sign or line: slow down and be ready to stop. Continue only when safe.
• Police directions override signals and signs.

Uncontrolled intersections and T-intersections

At an intersection with no lights, signs or lines that is not a T-intersection, give way to vehicles on your right, whether they are turning or going straight. This is the give way to the right rule.

At a T-intersection, drivers on the terminating road give way to all traffic on the continuing road. If you are on the continuing road and turning right into the terminating road, give way to oncoming traffic on the continuing road, including vehicles turning left.

An intersection routine

1. Read signs and markings early and choose your lane.
2. Check mirrors, signal and move into position.
3. Slow down so you can stop if needed.
4. Scan left, right and ahead, and again before you go. Look for pedestrians, cyclists and motorbikes, which are easy to miss.
5. Go only when you have a safe gap, and keep looking as you cross.

Common mistakes

• Entering the intersection when the exit is blocked, then stopping across it.
• Cutting the corner when turning right.
• Looking once and going. Traffic changes quickly, so look again just before you move.
• Changing lanes over a continuous line at the last moment.

Test yourself: Intersections and T-junctions

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.