Emerging
Emerging from a Minor Road
Emerging means joining, crossing, or turning onto a major road.
You must judge the speed and distance of approaching traffic and only emerge when it’s safe.
Use the MSM/PSL routine and check all road signs and markings.
‘Give Way’ Sign or Lines
You must give way to traffic on the major road.
If you can join safely without causing others to alter speed or direction, you may proceed; otherwise, stop.
'Stop' Sign
Always stop at the stop line.
Only move off when:
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You have a clear view, and
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It’s definitely safe.
Unmarked Junctions
Take extra care—never assume you have priority.
MSM/PSL Recap (Emerging)
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M: Check mirrors.
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S: Signal left or right.
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M: Manoeuvre using PSL.
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P: Position correctly—left for left turns; near the centre line (or right in a one-way street) for right turns.
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S: Slow down and be prepared to stop.
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L: Look in all directions until you’re sure it’s safe to go.
Other Traffic and Visibility
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Bends, hills, and parked vehicles can restrict your view.
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Don’t assume an approaching vehicle is turning until you’re sure.
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Look carefully for motorcyclists—they’re harder to spot and their speed is easy to misjudge.
Deciding When to Go
Your decision depends on your zone of vision—what you can see from your position.
This is affected by:
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Buildings or hedges
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Road bends or gradients
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Parked or moving vehicles
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Obstructions, light, and weather
Move forward slowly until you can see clearly. If you can’t see another road user, they likely can’t see you either.
Keep assessing, decide when it’s safe, then act smoothly.
Be aware that large vehicles can obscure others overtaking them.
After Emerging
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Accelerate safely to match the traffic flow.
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Cancel your indicator.
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Check mirrors for following traffic.
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Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
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Do not overtake until you’ve assessed the new road properly.
Defensive Driving Tips
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When turning right, don’t drive down the centre of the road to “fit” into gaps.
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Wait for a clear, safe opportunity.
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When turning into a major road, take time to complete the manoeuvre safely.
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If in doubt, wait.
Lanes at Junctions
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Approach in the correct lane for your direction.
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Don’t change lanes to gain advantage.
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Watch for lane markings, signs, and the signals of others.
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Expect sudden or late lane changes by other drivers.
Large or Articulated Vehicles
Stay clear of large vehicles at junctions—they need more room and may position unusually before turning.
They may:
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Swing right before turning left, or
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Swing left before turning right.
Be ready for them to stop if their path is blocked.
Passing Minor Roads
Watch for road signs indicating side roads, even if you’re not turning.
Look for vehicles emerging unexpectedly, especially where visibility is poor.
If unsure that a driver has seen you—slow down and be prepared to stop.
Stay calm and avoid using your horn aggressively.
Overtaking
Never overtake at or near a junction.
A vehicle’s left-hand signal is not an invitation to overtake.
Road Surface
Be aware of surface conditions—slippery patches or loose gravel.
Brake before turning, not during.
When passing multiple minor roads, adjust speed so you can always stop within the distance you can see is clear.