Guide to Approaching and Driving Through Junctions in Great Britain

1. Understanding Junctions

In the UK, junctions are where roads meet, and they can be:

Type of Junction	Description
T-junctions	Where a road ends by joining another.
Crossroads	Where two roads cross.
Y-junctions	Where roads merge or split at an angle.
Roundabouts	Circular junctions with priority rules.

You may need to turn left or right at a junction, which requires proper observation, signalling, and positioning.

2. Approaching a Junction (MSM Routine)

Use the Mirror-Signal-Manoeuvre (MSM) routine:

3. Turning Left at a Junction

Open vs. Closed Junctions

• Open junction: Good visibility (adjust speed but may not need to stop).
• Closed junction: Poor visibility (be prepared to stop completely).

Procedure:

1. Mirrors → Check left mirror and blind spot for cyclists.
2. Signal → Left indicator on in good time.
3. Position → Stay near the left kerb.
4. Speed → Slow down and be ready to stop if needed.
5. Priority → Give way to pedestrians crossing and oncoming traffic if necessary.
6. Turn → Steer smoothly into the new road, staying in the left lane.

4. Turning Right at a Junction

Procedure:

1. Mirrors → Check right mirror and blind spot.
2. Signal → Right indicator on early.
3. Position → Move towards the centre line (but don’t cross it).
4. Speed → Slow down and stop if needed (if traffic is coming).
5. Priority →
   • At an unmarked junction, give way to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
   • At a crossroads, only proceed if safe.
6. Turn → When safe, steer into the right side of the new road (unless road markings say otherwise).

5. Emerging at T-Junctions

• Major to minor road (exiting): You must give way to traffic on the major road.
• Minor to major road (entering): Stop at the give way line (if present) and wait for a safe gap.

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Signalling too late → Confuses other drivers.
• Cutting corners → Risk of hitting oncoming traffic.
• Incorrect positioning → Turning right from the left side (dangerous).
• Ignoring cyclists/pedestrians → Always check blind spots.

7. Special Cases

• Filter lights: Some junctions have separate signals for right turns.
• Box junctions: Do not enter unless your exit is clear.
• One-way streets: Adjust positioning (right turns may be from the far left).

8. Recap: Key Rules from the Highway Code

• Rule 170: Give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross.
• Rule 172: At unmarked junctions, no one has priority—proceed with caution.
• Rule 173: Watch for cyclists/motorcyclists when turning.

Final Tips

• ✔ Always check mirrors and blind spots.
• ✔ Signal clearly and in good time.
• ✔ Follow road markings and signs.
• ✔ Be patient—don’t rush if visibility is poor.

By following these steps, you’ll navigate junctions safely and confidently while driving in Great Britain.

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