Types of Junctions

The Five Types

There are five main types of junctions:

  1. T-junctions

  2. Y-junctions

  3. Staggered junctions

  4. Crossroads

  5. Roundabouts

Each type can have many variations.

How you approach a junction depends on what you intend to do — turn left, turn right, or go straight ahead.

T-Junctions

A T-junction is where a minor road joins a major road.

Usually, the road along the top of the “T” (the major road) has priority.

The minor road may have:

  • A ‘Stop’ sign and road markings

  • A ‘Give Way’ sign and markings

  • Give way lines only

  • No signs or markings

When driving on the major road, if you're travelling straight ahead:

  • Observe all road signs and markings.

  • Watch for vehicles emerging to turn left or right.

  • Be aware of vehicles waiting to turn into the minor road.

  • Avoid overtaking when approaching or passing a junction.

Hatch Markings

On busy roads, a right-turn filter lane may be separated by white hatch markings (chevrons) surrounded by broken or solid white lines.

  • These areas help separate traffic and protect vehicles turning right.

  • If the boundary line is solid, do not enter except in an emergency.

  • If the boundary is broken, only enter when you can clearly see it’s safe.

Join or leave the major road here as you would on a dual carriageway.

T-Junctions on Bends

Take extra care when a T-junction lies on a bend.

  • Look well ahead for road signs and markings.

  • Be especially cautious when turning right from a major road that curves left — your view may be limited, and traffic can approach quickly.

  • Ensure your position does not endanger you or oncoming vehicles.

  • Wait for a safe gap before turning.

Unmarked T-Junctions

If no signs or markings are present:

  • Never assume priority.

  • Watch carefully for vehicles approaching, waiting, or emerging from the junction.

  • Be prepared to adjust your speed — other drivers may misjudge your position or speed.

Defensive Driving Tip:

When passing a series of side roads on the left, reduce your overall speed and be ready for vehicles emerging unexpectedly.

Y-Junctions

Y-junctions can be deceptive because they often require only a small change in direction.

Typically, the main route continues straight and has priority, while joining roads have ‘Give Way’ or ‘Stop’ signs — though exceptions exist.

Be aware:

  • Watch for drivers incorrectly positioned or misjudging the layout.

  • Look well ahead for signs and markings.

  • Never overtake when approaching a junction.

When emerging from a minor road, if the junction angle is sharp (especially from the right), your view to the left may be restricted.

  • Position your vehicle closer to a right angle with the main road at the ‘Stop’ or ‘Give Way’ lines to improve visibility.

  • This is especially important for vehicles with limited side visibility, such as vans.

Staggered Junctions

Staggered junctions occur where roads meet a major road from both sides, but not directly opposite one another.

Driving on the Major Road

  • Look well ahead for signs and markings.

  • Use the MSM/PSL routine.

  • Adjust your speed and be ready to stop if visibility is limited.

  • Watch for vehicles:

    • Emerging from either minor road

    • Turning into a minor road

    • Crossing the main road from one side to the other

Emerging from a Minor Road

  • Check for traffic approaching from both directions.

  • When safe, move to the centre of the major road opposite the road you intend to enter.

  • Stop and check again before proceeding.

  • If crossing from one side road to another close opposite, ensure you have ample space and time in both directions.

Key Steps:
Look → Assess → Decide → Act.

Crossroads

A crossroads is where two or more roads intersect.

Assessing the Crossroads

  • Look ahead for signs and markings that indicate priority.

  • Be alert for vehicles cutting across traffic or misjudging gaps.

  • Adjust speed early on approach.

Turning Right

Positioning and speed are crucial.

  • Check mirrors before turning, especially if you’ve been waiting.

  • Watch for vehicles both on the road you’re leaving and the one you’re joining.

When Both Vehicles Turn Right at a Crossroads

When two opposing vehicles want to turn right, there are two accepted methods:

1. Offside to Offside

  • Vehicles pass in front of each other (driver-to-driver).

  • Safer because both drivers have a clear view of oncoming traffic.

  • In heavy traffic, leave a gap for approaching vehicles to turn right.

2. Nearside to Nearside

  • Vehicles turn behind each other (passenger-to-passenger).

  • Less safe, as the view ahead is obstructed.

  • Take extra care — smaller vehicles, cyclists, and motorcyclists can be hidden.

  • Some junctions make this method compulsory through markings.

Approaching Crossroads from a Minor Road

Treat the crossroads as a T-junction unless the opposite road is also minor.

  • Turning left or going straight on: proceed with caution.

  • Turning right: normally wait for any opposite vehicle to pass before turning.

  • Both turning right: make eye contact to establish who will go first — neither has automatic priority.

Defensive Driving Tip:

Always be prepared to stop if another driver moves across your path.

Unmarked Crossroads

Treat all roads as equal — no one has priority.

  • Proceed only when certain it’s safe.

  • Remember the acronym LADA: Look – Assess – Decide – Act.

  • Take extra care if your view is restricted by buildings, vehicles, or vegetation.

QUICK NAVIGATION

BACK TO CHAPTER