Emerging Left and Right (T Junctions)

Emerging Left and Right at T Junctions

With so many junctions varying drastically in terms of size, complexity, layout and ‘visibility’, T junctions are particularly challenging for novice drivers. Every year the number one reason for driving test failures is a lack of proper observation at junctions.

You should approach a T junction slow enough to assess if the junction is open or closed. This will allow enough time to stop safely if necessary.

Open Junctions

Open junctions are ones where visibility is good due to the junction being wide and having few obstacles surrounding it.

Closed Junctions

Closed junctions are ones where visibility is poor due to surrounding obstacles, and layout.

You should approach all T junctions using the MSPSL process:

Mirrors

On approach to the junction check the rear-view mirror followed by the corresponding door mirror (left if turning left or right if turning right). This will give you a good idea of what’s going on around you and whether there are any hazards you might have to address. Do this early and don’t be afraid to repeat if necessary.

Signal

Once you can see the junction, indicate in the direction you will be turning. Be wary of indicating ‘blindly’ when first given the instruction to turn as there may be a side road before the T junction you are turning into.

Position

If you are turning left you should follow the natural curve of the junction and turn a little to the left as the junction widens. This will give you a better angle and prevent any ‘swan necks’ which can see you edge onto the wrong side of the road.

If you are turning right, position the car to the right of the lane with the right wheels of the car just inside the centre line of the road. This will give you a good angle and, on some roads, allow cars turning left to tuck alongside you.

Position when emerging left

Position when emerging right

Speed

Always slow down on the approach to a T junction using the brake and prepare to stop. It is often difficult to assess whether a junction is open or closed until you are on top of it so err on the side of caution and think stop first and follow LADA.

Look, Assess, Decide, Act (LADA)

The most important aspect of emerging from a T junction is observation. Allow yourself enough time to look left and right repeatedly before emerging. Quite often something is missed that is seen on second glance. When you are ready to go, depress the accelerator and remove the handbrake (if necessary).

Peep and Creep

If it is difficult to see due to parked vehicles, the pillars within the car, or some other obstruction, don’t be afraid to move your position in the car and lean forwards or to the side to get a better view. Creep the car forward using the accelerator and only move off safely when you can see sufficiently.

Emerging Onto Fast Roads

A slow minor road joining a high speed major road can be challenging, particularly for novice drivers. New drivers can struggle to judge the speed of traffic when attempting to join a new road. If you are unsure what speed a vehicle is travelling at and whether it is safe to emerge, don’t risk it. Wait for a safe gap. If in doubt, chicken out.

When entering a high speed road, following vehicles can catch up quickly. As soon as entering the new road, check your interior mirror and apply the accelerator accordingly.

Quick Tips

Always slow down on the approach to T junctions and prepare to stop. Never assume you can keep going.
Make sure you look in both directions at T junctions no matter which direction you are turning.
If visibility is poor at a T junction don’t be afraid to Peep and Creep. Lean forwards and edge out slowly until you can see sufficiently.
When you move onto a new road look in your rear-view mirror for following cars and accelerate towards the speed limit accordingly.
Always employ the MSPSL routine on approach to T junctions.