WANT 20 HOURS IN YOUR LOGBOOK?
Get 20 hours in your logbook when you complete the Safer Drivers Course with Learn Drive Survive®. With our safe driving course, you can prioritise road safety and empower yourself as a safer driver.
Give way rules apply at all intersections no matter if the intersection is controlled by STOP or Give Way signs. Give way rules still apply at roundabouts and even at intersections or crossroads, where there are no lines or signs. Did you know that according to the Bureau of Statistics, almost half of the road crashes in NSW occur at intersections. Intersections should never be rushed. Whether or not you have to STOP or Give Way, you should always take your time to ensure it’s safe to proceed.
Some crossroads may not have traffic control lights or signs. If you’re turning across the path of another vehicle, you must give way. Anytime that you turn at an intersection, you must give way to:
- Oncoming vehicles going straight ahead (if you are turning right).
- Oncoming vehicles turning left (if you are turning right).
- Any vehicle on your right (if you are turning left or right).
If you and an oncoming vehicle are turning right at an intersection (across the path of one another), both vehicles should pass in front of each other.
4-Way Intersections
Give way rules at 4-way intersections, always seem to not just confuse learner drivers, but also experienced drivers. We have found that many learner drivers aren’t sure who gives way or who has right of way and become somewhat ‘flustered’.
- If you approach a 4-way intersection at the same time as a vehicle who is approaching from your right and they appear to be travelling straight ahead, give way to your right.
- If you approach a 4-way intersection at the same time as a vehicle who is approaching from your left and right and both appear to be travelling straight ahead, give way to both.
- If you approach a 4-way intersection at the same time as a vehicle opposite you who appears to be turning right, they give way to you no matter if you are travelling straight or turning left.
- If you approach a 4-way intersection at the same time as a vehicle opposite you who appears to be turning left and you intend on turning right (same direction as the opposite vehicle), they have right of way as they are closest to the kerb.
- If you approach a 4-way intersection at the same time as a vehicle who appears to be turning right (your left) and you intend on turning right (their left), you can both proceed by passing in front of one another.
- If you approach a 4-way intersection at the same time as a vehicle to your left and who appears to be travelling straight ahead or turning left or right, they give way to you.
This generally applies when vehicles approach the STOP sign or line at the same time. Which ever vehicle approached first, they generally have the right of way.
Another common problem we find is that learner drivers get confused with the ‘Give Way to your right rule’. When leaving a road and there is another vehicle waiting to turn, many learners will slow right down and/or come to a stop thinking they have to give way to the vehicle ready to enter the road their turning off. See below example.
In this situation, the grey vehicle waiting to turn must give way to the blue car turning right. However, never assume that the other vehicle will apply the give way rule and ensure they wait to give way to you when making the turn. A rather simple and non-complex way of thinking about applying the give way rule is like this. Assume you are travelling along a stretch of road, that’s ‘your’ road. Anyone who wishes to enter ‘your’ road, must give way to you. No matter if they are leaving a driveway, leaving the kerb to enter the lane of traffic or turning from a side street, they must apply the give way rule and give way to you.
Now assume you are turning off that stretch of road, any vehicle waiting to turn from the road you intend to enter, must give way to you first. Once you turn onto the new road, that’s ‘your’ road and the same give way rule applies.
If you are not familiar with the give way rules, it is a good idea to do some research so that you understand who has right of way at intersections. Another good idea is to stop near a busy intersection and watch the traffic. Not only will you get a better understanding of how the give way rule applies, you will probably also see how many drivers simply ignore STOP signs and fail to obey the road rules. Like anything, the more you do the better you become so practice and repeat so that you will feel more confident and competent when entering and exiting intersections.
Hi there
There is an intersection near where I live (Forest Lodge, NSW) with 2 x Give Way signs and 1 x Stop sign. There are plenty of Chinese-born residents who give way whilst at one of the Give Way signs (at the top of the T-intersection). I have insisted they proceed whilst at the Stop sign.
Am I correct, or do those at Give Way signs give way to those at the Stop sign?
Hi Jacob,
Can you please tell us where the intersection is on google maps just so we can look at it and provide you with the correct info. I had a quick look from an aerial perspective on google around that area trying to see where you may have meant without luck. Without seeing the intersection, this may still help you. A STOP sign or a STOP line means you must give way to all vehicles travelling in, entering or approaching the intersection, whether vehicles are turning left or right, or going straight ahead.
I know that intersection. It’s Scotsman and Ross Streets close to the old tramsheds. From memory, all three approaches used to be controlled by Stop signs. A careful reading of rules 67 and 69 suggests they should all give way to each other and need to negotiate their priorities.
The only situation at this place where the law explicitly assigns priority is when someone is continuing at the top of the T and an oncoming vehicle wants to turn right.
There is an intersection in Rosewood 4340 where John Street meets Berlin street and Waight street, with three give way signs. Could I please have this intersection explained, who gives way to who and also who needs to indicate and when to indicate.
Hi Vanessa, thanks kindly for your response to our “Who Gives Way at Intersections – Give Ways Rules on our Learn Drive Survive (learndrivesurvive.com.au) site. I have looked at the intersection as provided by you and it certainly isn’t your common straight 4-way intersection. I have tried to explain this as best I could for you so I hope this helps.
Vehicles travelling from Waight St continuing onto John Street don’t have any traffic lights, stop signs, stop lines, give way signs or give way lines. This means that any traffic travelling in this direction have priority over John Street, Upper John Street and Berlin Street however, continue with caution. The broken white lines are simply guide lines to help drivers maintain good road positioning from one street to the next.
There is a posted give way sign for vehicles travelling along John Street and Upper John Street (from both sides). Same goes with vehicles entering from Berlin Street.
There is where the give way rules apply. If you approach the intersection from Berlin Street, at the same time as a vehicle who is approaching from your right (Upper John Street) and they appear to be travelling straight ahead or turning right, you must give way to them (give way to your right).
If you approach the intersection from Berlin Street at the same time as vehicles approaching from your left and right (both sides of John Street) and both appear to be travelling straight ahead, give way to both directions.
If you approach the intersection from John Street at the same time as a vehicle opposite you (Upper John Street) and who appears to be turning right, they must give way to you no matter if you are travelling straight or turning left.
If you approach the intersection from John Street at the same time as a vehicle opposite you (Upper John Street) who appears to be turning left into Berlin Street and you also intend on turning right into Berlin Street, you must give way (They have priority).
If you approach the intersection from John Street at the same time as a vehicle opposite you (Upper John Street) who appears to be turning right into Waight Street (your left) and you intend on turning right into Berlin Street (their left), you can both proceed by passing in front of one another.
If you approach the intersection from Upper John Street Street at the same time as a vehicle to your left (Berlin Street) and who appears to be travelling straight ahead, turning left or right, they must give way to you whether you’re turning right into Waight Street or going straight ahead in John Street.
I hope this helps you and doesn’t appear too confusing. A little tip for you, for each scenario, just visualise being at that intersection as you read it and virtually put yourself there to help understand it better.
The Learn Drive Survive Team
Hi: when I drop my son off at his school there is a semi circular kiss and drop bay to pull into, drop off and exit. When exiting the bay there’s a Stop sign. To the left is a car park with an exit and a Give Way sign. The only cars to Give Way to are the cars exiting the kiss and drop bay. The signs are within school grounds. What’s the rule here when two cars have approached their signs and when afternoon school traffic is heavy on both sides of the signage?
Hi Michelle,
Thanks for your question. So that we can provide you with an accurate answer, may we kindly request that you provide us with a Google maps location so that we can check the intersections first. FYI there is a school in the Lake Macquarie area that also has a circular drop-off. Many people believe this is also within the school grounds however, it’s actuall a small public street.
regards
Learn Drive Survive team
There is an intersection in my area, Kallangur (QLD) at School Road & Brickworks Road with 2 Stop signs. I thought I had the road rules down pat until I started using this intersection daily because it seems like everyone goes when they please. If I was to turn right onto Brickworks road from School road & a car is turning left onto the same road, who has right of way? And if I’m understanding correctly, same example – if I were to turn right & someone at the opposite stop sign is going straight, I give way to them?
Hi Carly,
Thanks for visting Learn Drive Survive – ‘Who Gives Way at Intersections’. We have taken a look at the intersection and from the information you’ve provided, the intersection is controlled by STOP signs/lines. So if you and another vehicle come to a stop at the same time and you were both wanting to turn in the same direction onto Brickworks Rd, then you must give way to the other vehicle closest to the kerb who has priority.
If it was the same scenario however, this time you had stopped first as the opposite vehicle was still slowing down and preparing to stop, then you would have right of way as you arrived at the intersection first. But this is where you need to be cautious because many drivers may only slow down and fail to stop.
For your second scenario, the same applies. If you and another vehicle arrive and come to a stop at relatively the same time, if you want to turn right onto Brickworks Rd, you must give way to the vehicle travelling straight ahead. But if you arrive at the intersection first and the vehicle opposite is still slowing and preparing to stop, you may move off first considering it’s safe and clear to do so. But once again, remember that you need to be cautious as other drivers may not come to a stop and just continue into the intersection.
I also note that there is a turning lane in the centre of Brickworks Rd for vehicles to turn right into School Rd. Any vehicles at the stop line of School Rd (both sides), must give way to any vehicles turning or waiting to turn right into School Rd.
I hope we were able to help and clear this up for you.
Thanks kindly for reaching out to the Learn Drive Survive Team
I am stopped at a stop sign on my right is a give way sign both approach at the same time me at stop sign turning left car on my right coming straight ahead who has the right away first
Hi Marie,
When 2 vehicles arrive togehter at a STOP line/sign or a GIVE WAY line/sign, the STOP sign becomes the equivalent of a GIVE WAY. The signs effectively cancel each other out and normal give way rules apply. One is no more powerful than the other.
Based on the information you have provided, if you arrive at the same time as another vehicle (on your right), you must give way to the vehicle travelling straight ahead.
Do you or someone you know, have a learner driver that would like to complete the Learn Drive Survive® Safer Drivers Course and receive 20 additional hours in their learner logbook? If so, please forward the following information to them. Alternatively, book a course here.
Learn Drive Survive® SDC
1800 898 989
Thank you.
Learn Drive Survive Team
Hi,
The example above, i.e the one paragraph that starts with the “see below examples” is contradictory to what is explained in the texts above and below it. did you mean blue car should give way to grey car?
thanks.
Hi Roy,
Yes, that’s correct. The grey car must give way to the blue car. With all due respect, just not sure how the content contradicts the example.
“In this situation, the grey vehicle waiting to turn must give way to the blue car turning right.”
Hi,
Where do I come across/locate uncontrolled intersections whilst I’m driving? Are they located on main highways, country roads, parking lots etc? This is what’s confusing me.
I know what to do at an unsigned cross road. However, I want to know where they are found, so I know when to stop and give way.
Thanks.
Hi Mitch,
Uncontrolled intersections are only regulated by the right of way or give way rules as the intersection is not controlled by traffic lights or road signs. However, to answer your question, most uncontrolled intersections can be found at T sections or T intersections in residential and rural areas or where low-volumes and low-speeds occur. Most major shopping centre car parks may not have Give Way signs displayed, but will have give way lines at the end of the lanes (T-intersections) just to reinforce priority.
In the town where I live we have a cross road controlled one side with a stop the other side with a give way . How should this work ? I have had lots of discussions at the pub about it .. and I am now unclear
Hi Kevin,
Thanks for your question. Could you please send us the location/intersection so that we can take a look and provide you with accurate info.
Thanks in advance.
The LDS Team
Hi there,
Imagine in the example above, the blue car was a car waiting in a driveway close to a T-junction waiting to enter the road. Who would have right of way, the grey car already at the intersection waiting to enter the main road, or the blue car waiting to enter the main road? Essentially this is a case of both vehicles turning right that should pass in front of each other, but as the driveway wasn’t directly infront of the T-junction (further to the grey car’s right), that car (blue car) would block the path of the grey car to make its turn.
Does the Give Way sign cover cars in driveways also or are cars in driveways meant to give way to all traffic on the road before entering?
Thanks.
Hi Lucy, thanks for your question.
Giving way when entering a road from a road related area or adjacent land (includes driveways).
(1) A driver entering a road from a road related area, or adjacent land, without traffic lights or a stop sign, stop line, give way sign or give way line must give way to;
(a) any vehicle travelling on the road or turning into the road (except a vehicle turning right into the road from a road related area or adjacent land)
NOTE: Adjacent land or a road related area can include a driveway, service station or shopping centre.
No matter if you are leaving a driveway, you must apply the give way rule and give way to all traffic and pedestrians.
Hope this answers your question 🙂
Learn Drive Survive Team
Hi, faced with this situation this morning and can’t find an answer. I was stopped at a stop sign at an intersection, wanting to turn right. There was a car directly across from me also at a stop sign wanting to turn to their right. Who has right of way if both cars are at stop signs and both are wanting to turn to their own right?
Hi Alex,
In this situation and if safe to proceed, if you and the oncoming vehicle are turning right at an intersection, both vehicles should pass in front of each other and close to the centre in the direction of your intended turns.
Alex, apparently your supposed to both just go and somehow miss each other similar to intersections with traffic lights and marked turning lanes. Seems crazy to me on any small intersection you would just hit each other. generally I just catch the other drivers eye and either wave them through or they wave me through.
I live in Longreach Qld, why do most intersections not have any signs at all. Locals use the intersections like roundabouts, so stop and give way to you when they are going straight whereas who are turning into their path. It’s really confusing. Which way is correct?
Hi Julie,
Some local streets and crossroads don’t have traffic lights or signs. These are known as uncontrolled intersections or crossroads. Unfortunately, many drivers don’t know the Give Way rules, particularly at these types of intersections. Think of it like this, if you have to turn across another vehicle’s path, you must give way. When turning at an intersection, you must give way to:
– Oncoming vehicles going straight ahead.
– Oncoming vehicles turning left.
– Any vehicle on your right.
If I’m turning right at a 2 lane intersection traffic lights but no turn arrows, and im in right lane turning right. Do I give way to oncoming traffic turning left?
Hi Beeble,
Thanks for the question! From the information you have provided, if there are no turn arrows (single turn lane only), YES the give way rules come into play therefore, any oncoming vehicles turning left have the right of way.
Learn Drive Survive Team
There’s an intersection in Wingham, NSW (see https://goo.gl/maps/qkWZzhG9cGtAcqNV7) where traffic from Wingham Rd has right-of-way, but all other traffic is faced with a Give Way sign.
The debate between locals is always around who has right-of-way when all three give way streets are stopped after waiting for the car leaving Wingham Rd. Who goes first if all three are going straight?
Thanks for your question.
Ok so in this scenario and based on the information you’ve provided, Wingham Road changes over to Wynter Road. Traffic travelling in that direction have right of way (with caution) as there are no Give Way signs or lines controlling that direction of traffic. If there are vehicles stopped at all three intersections – Combined Streets (both sides) and Wynter Street waiting to travel straight, the vehicle travelling from the bowling club side on Combined Street towards the pool side on Combined Street, has the right of way. This means that vehicles waiting to move from Wynter Street have to give way to vehicles approaching from their right.
Vehicles waiting to travel from the pool side of Combined Street towards the bowling club side of Combined Street, would ordinarily have to give way to their right for vehicles approaching from Wynter Street. However, based considering all drivers are aware of the give way rules, both vehicles travelling straight on Combined Streets could move off together because vehicles entering from Wynter Street are blocked by vehicles travelling across their path from Combined Street on the right.
Hope this helps!
LDS Team
Hi LDS Team,
I’ve got a question about turning right in the following scenario…
4-way intersection with “Give way” signs both-ways on a street I’ll call “secondary” and no sign for what I’ll dub the “main” street. I come to a full top in one of the corners with the “Give way” sign as there are cars in the “main” street going up and down whilst my intention is to turn right to join the main street. Across the intersection, a car (C2) that arrived to the intersection after me comes to a full stop as it intends to go straight at the intersection and traverse it. While waiting, a third car (C3) comes to a full stop behind the car in front of me (C2). There’s an opening in the main street, so I give way to C2 and it traverses the intersection. Coming traffic in the main street prevents me and C3 from making our moves, so I remain stopped while C3 moves to the spot where C2 use to be. We wait for an openning in the main street when a fourth car (C4) pulls behind C3 with the intention to go straight as well. In the next oppening, who has the right to turn, C3 or I?
Having given way to cars in the main street and to C2 to traverse the intersection, I would think the right to turn would be mine as opposed to C3 since I arrived first to the intersection. Is this the case? If it isn’t, does that mean C4 will also have the right to turn before me? Will I be stuck in “giving way” to cars going straight across the intersection so long as cars keep showing up across me?
Tahnks in advance,
Hi Ralph,
Sorry for the delay in getting back you. Can you please send us the location of this intersection so that we can properly provide you with the correct information.
Thanks in advance.
LDS Team
Im unsure about a T intersection near me
It’s a T intersection like the one in the first example picture, but its not a left turn slip lane, its a turning left lane with no give way sign or dotted lines.
If that turning left lane didnt exist, then oncoming traffic would have to give way to me turning left if they were turning right.
Is it the same situation with a left turn lane, or do give way to them now as if there was a give way sign?
Hi M,
To better understand your question, can you please provide us with the location of the intersection you’re making reference to.
Regards
The LDS Team
The intersection of Bellarine Hwy and Resort Blvd in Moolap Victoria.
Residents of the retirement Village face a giveway sign coming from Resort Blvd.
When performing a right hand turn from Resort Blvd onto Bellarine Hwy then heading East.
Cars doing a U-turn at this intersection heading east then heading west cross the path of the residents doing a right hand turn. Who has right of way?
Hi Robert,
Thanks for your question. Vehicles turning right from Bellarine Hwy into Resort Blvd and right again back onto Bellarine Hwy, must Give Way to any oncoming vehicles travelling from the Retirement Village from Resort Blvd and travelling straight ahead in preparation to turn right onto the Bellarine Hwy. The standard Give Way rules apply here in this situation. Hope this helps.
The Learn Drive Survive Team
Hi, I am confused even after reading this on the rules about giving way when turning right in the situation like at the intersection of Park Road woodford NSW and the great western Highway. There is a stop sign at the park road intersection and nothing like that when you turn right off the great western Highway onto park road. I assumed this meant that the people turning right at the park at bit had to give way to people turning right off the highway.. is that right though?? Thank you
Hi Al,
Thanks for your question. I think where many people get confused is that they think that you must give way to the right in all situations? But that’s not always the case. You may be thinking that vehicles turning right and leaving the highway should be giving way to you as you’re on their right. Vehicles turning left or right onto the highway from Park Rd, MUST give way to vehicles already on the highway or vehicles turning right off the highway into Park Rd.
Regards
Learn Drive Survive Team
Hi, I have an inquiry and since you are aware of the give way rules I want to hear your opinion on this matter, at a 4 way intersection there is a traffic light and an approaching vehicle that is going a head and another vehicle on the opposite side of the vehicle that is coming straight ahead the opposite vehicle wants to turn right, while the other one is heading straight the one that’s turning right fails to give way and hits the one going straight, who is at fault in this situation, please if you can elaborate and express your insight ASAP that will be great, thank you.
Hi Faye,
A four-way intersection controlled by traffic lights correct? On the green light and where there is NO right turn arrow, allows the opposite vehicle turning right to enter the intersection in preparation to make the turn. The vehicle turning right across on-coming traffic, MUST give way and only turn when it’s safe to do so. If the turning vehicle fails to give way and turns across into the path of the vehicle travelling straight, the turning vehicle is at fault. If the vehicle turning right had a green right turn arrow, that would mean the vehicle travelling straight failed to stop at a red light. Hope this helps.
Regards
LDS Team
Having a bad day.
I’ve never gotten a traffic ticket until today. I would say I’m a good driver and follow the rules of the road almost perfectly.
I was in an intersection waiting to turn left, the light turned yellow and I proceeded to turn left as the light turned red. Across the intersection was a police officer that was turning right. He made a complete stop at the intersection and was not using a turn signal. I was pulled over and was given a careless driving ticket. I understand that you cannot turn at an intersection unless it is clear, but the officer made a complete stop so i proceeded to turn left. To top it off I was in a rental because I was rear ended a couple week before. Can you give me some advice? I Honestly felt I made the right decision but now I could be loosing points on my driving record.
Hi Oscar,
Thanks for sharing your unfortunate experience with Learn Drive Survive. Many people aren’t aware but travelling through a yellow (amber) light when you could have stopped safely, is an offence. In fact, in NSW the fine and the demerit points are the same regardless if it is a red or yellow light offence. You can only travel through a yellow light, if sudden braking may cause a crash (heavy vehicle travelling close behind you) or if you cannot stop safely before the ‘Stop’ line (lights change when you are within a short distance of the ‘Stop’ line). You should never stop suddenly. A yellow light means prepare to stop. Not speed up to beat the red. In your siutation, because you said you were travelling SLOWLY waiting to turn left, you could have stopped safely on the yellow. On the other hand, if you had already travelled past the ‘Stop’ line on the GREEN light and were waiting in the intersection to turn and then the lights changed from green to yellow, you would have been fine as this is NOT an offence. Not saying this is your situation, but another scenario is where there is heavy traffic and you ‘block’ the intersection due to the other side of the intersection already being congested and leaving you no room to clear the insection.
(2) A driver approaching or at traffic arrows showing a yellow traffic arrow who is turning in the direction indicated by the arrow must stop–
(a) if there is a stop line at or near the traffic arrows and the driver can stop safely before reaching the stop line–as near as practicable to, but before reaching, the stop line, or
(b) if there is no stop line at or near the traffic arrows and the driver can stop safely before reaching the traffic arrows–as near as practicable to, but before reaching, the nearest or only traffic arrows, or
(c) if the traffic arrows are at an intersection and the driver cannot stop safely in accordance with paragraph (a) or (b), but can stop safely before entering the intersection–before entering the intersection,
and must not proceed past the stop line or nearest or only traffic arrows, or into the intersection (as the case may be), until the traffic arrows show a green or flashing yellow traffic arrow or no traffic arrow.
Let us know if you require any additional information.
Learn Drive Survive Team
Here is the intersection link I am referring to in my question.
https://goo.gl/maps/SaU6cJg4ZdjbyLtD6
I was turning right from central road with a give way sign into springvale road. Several cars were coming from the left banked up in the right slip lane planning to tunr right into central rd. can you tell me who has right of way?. It felt as if we had to give way to them but my partner and I disagreed. Can you please clarify? much appreciate
Hi Felicity,
Thanks for your question and for sharing the Google Maps link with Learn Drive Survive. Vehicles turning right from Central Rd, MUST give way to vehicles turning or waiting to turn right from Springvale Rd into Central Rd. If you are turning left or right from Central Rd, you MUST give way to ALL vehicles (and bicycles) travelling on Springvale Rd as you are faced with a give way sign.
Hope this helps.
Learn Drive Survive Team
I have looked for an answer everywhere for the following & can’t find one: When turning left onto a multi-lane road, can the vehicle approaching from opposite direction that’s turning right onto the same road turn before me (or simultaneously) into the inside lane of the road in which I’m turning? It happens quite a lot but I thought they still have to give way.
Hi Dave,
Thanks for reaching out that’s a great question! Let’s start by using a single lane scenario. If there is a vehicle turning left and another vehicle on the opposite side turning right (same direction as your turn), that vehicle must give way to you. When turning left from a single lane into a multi-lane, you can turn into any lane you choose. For example, you may need to turn straight into the right lane in preparation to turn right shortly after.
Now let’s use the same scenario however, this time you’re turning left from a single lane into a multi lane. Again, you may need to turn into the far lane in preparation to turn right soon after. Therefore, any vehicles opposite you that wish to turn right (same direction as your turn), must give way to you. Remember, you don’t know what lane the opposite vehicle wants to turn into, and they don’t know what lane you want to turn into. You may also choose to turn left into the left lane and the vehicle opposite you wants to turn right into the same lane also, so they must give way to you.
I understand that the situation you have mentioned occurs daily however, unless traffic is controlled by a turn arrow/signal, the opposite vehicle turning in the same direction as you during ‘open green lights’, must give way any vehicles in the lane they want to turn into.
Do you or someone else know of any NSW learner drivers that would like to receive an additional 20 hours in their logbook? Learn Drive Survive are an approved provider of the Transport for NSW Safer Drivers Course. By completing a safe driving program with Learn Drive Survive, learner drivers will understand the importance of driver attitude and behaviour.
They will learn effective strategies and simple techniques that will help reduce unnecessary risk taking, influences and other distractions that can affect a driver’s capability. To book a course simply visit Learn Drive Survive Safer Drivers Course or call us on 1800 898 969.
Kind regards
Learn Drive Survive Team
If I approach an unmarked four way intersection and am going straight ahead do I need to give way to a car approaching from my right who is turning right and hence will be heading in the same direction as me
Hi Stuart,
Where can we find this unmarked/uncontrolled four-way intersection please?
Kind regards
Learn Drive Survive Team
Hi, there is an intersection near where I have just moved to, and although I am an experienced driver I have gotten a little confused. Where I am from I was lucky to have lots of roundabouts and traffic lights in the town.
So the very busy intersection I am talking about is wards hill rd and empire bay drive on the central coast nsw. There are 2 stop signs at the entry to empire bay drive from wards hill rd. I have been in the right turn lane on empire bay drive to enter wards hill rd a number of times, and twice now the cars to the right of me that are wanting to enter empire bay drive to go north (their right turn) from wards hill road just go through without giving me way.
I thought because there are stop signs for them it is my right of way to turn in? So this left me confused and hesitant on what to do. I have just moved states so I thought there could be different road rules.
My next time at the intersection because I was unsure I stopped to give way to the cars to my right here, and the car behind me beeped so that made me feel I was wrong for doing that and I proceeded. But it just seems each time I drive here somebody does something different. Could you please advise me on what I am really meant to do so I can feel more confident? Thank you
Hi Eloise,
Thanks for reaching out to Learn Drive Survive®.
According to Google Maps, the intersection that you outlined clearly displays 2 un-obstructed STOP signs facing drivers/riders on Wards Hills Rd wanting to enter Empire Bay Dr. This means, that any vehicle or motorcycle wanting to turn left or right from Wards Hill Rd onto Empire Bay Dr, MUST give way to vehicles in both directions INCLUDING vehicles that are turning right onto Wards Hill Rd.
You are right in that vehicles turning right from Wards Hill Rd onto Empire Bay Dr, must give way to you (if you’re turning right onto Wards Hill Rd). A common problem with busy intersections is that some drivers may have been waiting for a long period of time due to heavy traffic. For this reason, they will take the risk to turn across vehicles that are slowing down for the turn into Wards Hill Rd. A little tip for you from looking at the intersection. If you’re intending to turn right and you need to stop due to on-coming traffic, make sure you dont stop too far back. Be sure to stop so that the front of your vehicle is about
in-line with the concrete traffic island on your right. This will minimise the gap and the potential opportunity for vehicles to turn across your path.
Hope this helps and have a great day!
There is an intersection at Windsor road and Junction road in western Sydney between Riverstone and Box Hill which lets vehicles turn into Junction road or do a U-TURN. (There are no signs about U-turn installed)
I had an accident with a vehicle that was making a U-turn in this intersection as I was entering the Windsor road from Junction road turning left.
The other vehicle also started making their U-turn and We ended up having a crash.
Who would have the right of way?
Hi Aria, thanks for reaching out to Learn Drive Survive. Based on the information you provided, any vehicles performing a U-Turn from Junction Rd onto Windsor Rd are legally allowed to do (unless there is a no u-turn permitted sign). Any vehicles performing a U-Turn, must give way to all vehicles and pedestrians without interfering with the free flow of traffic.
Hope this helps.
Regards,
Learn Drive Survive Team
Hi. I am really concerned about a 4 way intersection controlled by traffic lights at corner Hotham Road and the Kingsway Gymea.
Turn left from Hotham Road north side into Kingsway east has a dedicated lane with arrows, but straight ahead and turn right are in same lane. There are no turn left or turn right arrow lights: it is 1 light.
From Hotham Road north, usual progress is continue south, only occasional turn right onto Kingsway or left onto Kingsway.
From Hotham Road south, usual progress is turn left or right onto Kingsway. The left turn has an arrow light at times.
Several times recently, when travelling southbound on Hotham Rd,I have been stuck behind a car turning right onto the Kingsway. I put my lights on, so cars turning right onto Kingsway from Hotham Rd south can see me (which is difficult if there is a turn righter in front of me). I can only legally be in that lane, due to the dedicated turn left lane.
However, each time, they have proceeded to turn right in front of me, as I have moved forward to continue my southbound journey.
They are in the wrong, as they are not obeying the give way to your right rule. However, the dedicated turn left lane on Hotham Rd north (which rarely gets used) is confusing them into thinking that I must be turning right as well.
Hi Karen,
We have checked the intersection as provided and can see what you are referring too. Vehicles wanting to turn right across your path on Hotham Rd, MUST give way to vehicles travelling straight (on Hotham Rd) when there are no turn arrows to control traffic. When turning vehicles fail to give way to vehicles travelling straight ahead, it comes down to impatience, assumption (that vehicles may be turning), or just not knowing the road rules. There are many intersections like this one with similar concerns. Just remember to take your time and remain cautious when proceeding through the intersection.
Kind regards
Learn Drive Survive Team
I would like to know what to do when entering a 3 lane road from a driveway and turning left. Do I give way to all 3 lanes or can I turn into the first or second lane if no vehicles are in these lanes?
Hi Maurie,
you do not have to give way to all three lanes. If the first or second lane are clear, you can move off into whichever lane is clear however, it’s important to continually assess and re-assess for any traffic signalling or changing into the lane your turning into.
Regards,
Learn Drive Survive Team
Hi.
I would just like to ask.
I’ve had an incident on the same intersection “Karen Leegwater” mentioned on the corner of Hotham Rd and Kingsway.
However, my situation was I was sitting on Hotham road, travelling southbound, turning right onto the Kingsway.
My question is: Am I suppose to give way to cars from Hotham road (northbound) turning left onto Kingsway (heading same direction as me?)
My thought is YES and I always have done that but recently in the last week, I was beeped twice by 2 different people. (Different intersections but same situation)
I’m assuming their beep is to tell me to MOVE and GO, even when there was multiple cars turning left (from Hotham Rd – northbound, to Kingsway)
Take note: there are 3 lanes on Kingsway that you can turn into, but everyone usually ends up in the middle lane.
Thanks for your question Ben. You’re correct! Vehicles turning right onto Kingsway from Hotham Rd, must give way to vehicles turning left from Hotham Rd onto Kingsway. Remember, vehicles turning from a single lane onto a multi-lane road, can choose whichever lane they wish depending on their intended route e.g, may be preparing to turn right shortly after.
However, if there are lane/line markings on the road, you must stay within your lane until you have completed the turn. In this situation, vehicles travelling northbound and turning left onto Kingsway, have the right of way and can turn left into any lane as there are no lane markings for the turn. I would only be commencing the turn once there are no vehicles travelling straight ahead or turning left into your intended road.
But remember this, there will always be drivers who are impatient and/or don’t know the road rules. And if you try to appease them and you cause a crash, they won’t take responsibility for your actions. Nor will they offer to pay the damage for the repairs.
Hope this helps out.
Kind regards
LDS Team
Hi LDS team,
If I am turning right at the following intersection: https://www.google.com/maps/place/Northumbria+Rd+%26+Sandgate+Rd,+Boondall+QLD+4034/@-27.356701,153.0607507,20z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x6b93e2f60e440b81:0xaeec2846109fbc1!8m2!3d-27.356623!4d153.0608942!16s%2Fg%2F11f30gcv3j?authuser=0&entry=ttu , coming from Northumbria road and a driver turning left from the road across (Garozzo) changes to the right lane as they turn, are they supposed to give way to me or me to them still? As technically they are changing lanes? PS. The map doesn’t show Sandgate road is a multi-lane, but can be seen on street view. Thank you!
Hi Briohny,
Thanks for getting in touch with the LDS Team!
Vehicles turning right from Northumbria Rd, MUST give way to all vehicles turning left from Garozza onto Sandgate Rd, regardless of the lane they are turning into e.g lane 1 or 2.
Have a great day!
Kind regards
Learn Drive Survive Team
Hi team,
4 way intersection that is controlled by ttop signs from East and West while North and South travel is not. Vehicle A arrives first from the East and stops to give way to heavy North South traffic while intending to turn right. Vehicle B arrives 10 seconds later from the West intending to travel straight ahead and stops to give way to heavy North South Traffic. The traffic clears after a few minutes. Who gives way? Vehicle A as it is turning right across the path of vehicle B or vehicle B because vehicle A arrived at the stop sign first?
Hi Martin,
It appears that the scenario you described, does not constitute a 4-way intersection. From what you described, it appears that there is a main road (North & South travel) of heavy traffic and is free flowing with no STOP/GIVEWAY signs or lines, whilst East & West are side streets controlled by STOP signs. If it was the situation that there was NO traffic from either direction and both vehicles approached the intersection (controlled by STOP signs) as you described (vehicle A first followed by vehicle B 10 seconds apart), vehicle A can make the turn as vehicle B has to slow down and come to a stop first. However, you should always proceed cautiously to ensure that the vehicle opposite is in fact slowing down and preparing to stop.
On the other hand, same situation as I provided, if both vehicles approach at the same time, and there was no traffic, vehicle A (turning) would give way to vehicle B (travelling straight ahead).
Hope this helps Martin.
Regards
Learn Drive Survive Team®
Hi LDS Team
You are providing an invaluable public service, I hope you can are getting some government funding for it! Thank you
Strange Intersection at Anthony Rolfe Ave x Hinder St x Mawby St Gungahlin, ACT 2913 at:
Dropped pin
https://maps.app.goo.gl/CH4LJKotoDi1JooMA?g_st=ic
If I were to turn right from the micro-streets in Anthony Rolfe Avenue’s median strip back onto Anthony Rolfe westbound, then I would have to give way to cars turning left from Hinder St, or does the nature of the road angles constitute a slip lane, or does the fact each street exit has a stop sign effect anything in the give way order?
Thanks a bunch!
Hi DaveWasBeeped,
Thanks for your kind words! No, we are not funded in any way at all. We just like to help people where we can.
We’ve taken a look at the intersection(s) you provided and it sure looks “different” however, we can understand how it could present some confusion for some motorists. The intersection is not a slip lane and is not your “typical” intersection whereby the vehicles are not directly opposite one another due to the small traffic island however, they are at very close proximity if they were to turn right. So yes, you are correct in that vehicles turning right back onto Anthony Rolfe Ave, must give way to vehicles turning left or travelling straight from Hinder St.
In regards to the order of vehicles to move off, this is where it can become tricky if drivers fail to come to a complete stop from Hinder St. If two (2) vehicles approached the STOP line together (Hinder & Anthony Rolfe), vehicles preparing to turn right and back onto Anthony Rolfe westbound (vehicle A), must give way to vehicles turning left or travelling straight from Hinder (vehicle B). However, in the same scenario, if vehicle A has already come to a stop in preperation to turn right back onto Anthony Rolfe westbound and vehicle B was coming to stop on Hinder, vehicle A can proceed cautiously to ensure vehicle B comes to a stop.
Same sceanrio with heavier traffic. Vehicles A and B come to a stop together. Vehicle B moves off followed by vehicle A. This is regardless if there are vehicles waiting behind B because they have to approach the STOP sign/line and come to a complete stop before proceeding. This is why I mentioned that things can become tricky if drivers fail to stop in Hinder.
Thanks for reaching out to us and have a great weekend!
Regards
Learn Drive Survive® Team
Good morning,
We live in Gembrook and there is constant confusion at the intersection of Beenak East Road and Gembrook/Gembrook-Launching Place road. When approaching from the South (Gembrook Road) you face a Give Way sign. When approaching from the North (Gembrook-Launching Place Road) you face a Stop sign. Who has right of way at this intersection? https://earth.app.goo.gl/?apn=com.google.earth&isi=293622097&ius=googleearth&link=https%3a%2f%2fearth.google.com%2fweb%2f%40-37.95294255,145.55360099,321.58190373a,0d,60y,229.79280687h,61.58001174t,0r%2fdata%3dIhoKFkM4OTZiWXROUC1NX1N6N2JLZ3Z6dXcQAg
Thank you.
Good Morning Rachel,
Thanks for sending this one through. Intersections controlled by a STOP or a GIVE WAY sign/line, at the same intersection, are not as common as intersections displaying the one type of sign e.g either a STOP or GIVE WAY however, they obviously exist. They generally exist when the angle of the intersection is awkward or the visibility is restricted. STOP sign is similar to a GIVE WAY when giving way. The signs effectively cancel each other out and normal give way rules apply. One is no more powerful than the other.
When 2 vehicles arrive at STOP (Gembrook-Launching Place Rd) or GIVE WAY (Gembrook Rd) signs together or at the same time, the STOP sign becomes the equivalent of a GIVE WAY sign. Both vehicles must give way to other vehicles on Beenak East Rd, before they must give way to each other. So, if for example a vehicle was turning right from Beenak East Rd onto Gembrook, they must give way to vehicles that are turning left onto Beenak East Rd from Gembrook-Launching Place Rd, because it’s turning right across their path.
Hope we were able to clear that up for you Rachel.
Regards
Learn Drive Survive® Team.
https://earth.google.com/web/@-37.77219995,145.02460036,42.0670218a,66.19206582d,35y,33.65943278h,59.62204019t,360r
At the intersection of Perry Street and Separation Street in Fairfield, if I am travelling north, but wanting to turn right (east into Separation Street). I get confused about who goes first when a car opposite me is not turning but is wanting to cross Separation Street and continue travelling south.
I initially thought that the car turning onto the primary carriageway went first (I feel like I read that somewhere) but that would mean the car heading north would be doing a right turn in front of a car going straight ahead. So maybe that isn’t right?
I do this turn multiple times a week and I feel like nobody at that intersection knows what the rules are .. we all end up nodding and hand gesturing to work out who is going to go next …
Hi Leanne,
Thanks for reaching out to the Learn Drive Survive Team!
If you’re turning right and there is a vehicle opposite travelling straight, you must give way to that vehicle. Don’t turn across it’s path.
Any other questions please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Kind regards
Learn Drive Survive Team.
Hello, I was driving on the Croydon road Croydon NSW, there was a roundabout between Anthony st and Croydon Road. Me and the driver arrived the roundabout the same time( me probably couple of seconds earlier), I was going straight and she was turning left to Croydon Road, she saw me at slow speed into roundabout then she speed up to turn left whileI was in the mid of roundabout and I bumped into her right back of the car, please advise whose fault it is. Thanks
Hi Juliet,
Thanks for reaching out to the Learn Drive Survive team.
Please understand that the information we provide is not legal advice and can only be taken based on the information that you provide.
If the vehicle you collided into was turning left onto Croydon St from Anthony St, it would appear they have failed to give way to you (to their right) as you had entered the roundabout already. Again, this is solely based off the information you have provided. Both drivers should have exchanged particulars then let your insurance company look after it.
Hope this information assists you.
Do you or someone you know, have a learner driver that would like to complete the Learn Drive Survive® Safer Drivers Course and receive 20 additional hours in their learner logbook? If so, please forward the following information to them.
Learn Drive Survive® SDC
1800 898 989
Safer Drivers Course
regards
Learn Drive Survive® Team
Hi, I live in Windsor QLD and there is an intersection at Blackmore street and lane street which has give way signs at Blackmore street traveling east, and give way if traveling north from lane street.
When traffic is turning right from Blackmore street onto Lane street, the give way to your right rule is never observed.
It has been suggested this intersection would be best served with a roundabout, Im still not sure who actually gives way when turning right from Lane street onto Blackmore, and just stop to avoid an accident. (its clear cars at the give way sign give way but not clear in the other direction, would love to hear your opinion.
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Blackmore+St,+Windsor+QLD+4030/@-27.4301554,153.0371411,55m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m6!3m5!1s0x6b9159c9b07d4219:0x329be5680593598b!8m2!3d-27.4301268!4d153.0362841!16s%2Fg%2F1tdbflrl?entry=ttu
G’day Josh,
we have taken a look at the intersection with the link you provided.
We note that the intersection is controlled by a STOP sign (Lane St) and a GIVE WAY sign (Blackmore St).
Intersections controlled by a STOP or a GIVE WAY sign/line, at the same intersection, are not as common as intersections displaying the one type of sign e.g either a STOP or GIVE WAY however, they obviously exist. They generally exist when the angle of the intersection is awkward or the visibility is restricted in either direction or both. A STOP sign is similar to a GIVE WAY sign when giving way.
When 2 vehicles arrive togehter at the STOP line/sign (Lane St) or the GIVE WAY line/sign (Blackmore St), the STOP sign becomes the equivalent of a GIVE WAY. The signs effectively cancel each other out and normal give way rules apply. One is no more powerful than the other.
Vehicles turning right from Blackmore St onto Lane St, MUST give way (to their right) to vehicles turning from Lane.
Do you or someone you know, have a learner driver that would like to complete the Learn Drive Survive® Safer Drivers Course and receive 20 additional hours in their learner logbook? If so, please forward the following information to them.
Learn Drive Survive® SDC
1800 898 989
Safer Drivers Course
regards
Learn Drive Survive® Team
Does the driver turning left from a slip lane with a Give Way sign, also have to give way to people doing a U-turn into the same street? Someone just told me that’s the rule but most people at my work thought the Give Way sign means you have to wait for everyone.
Hi Michael,
Giving way at a give way sign or give way line at an intersection (except a roundabout)
If a driver using a slip lane is turning left, then they must give way to—
(a) any vehicle on the road the driver is entering, or turning right at the intersection into the road the driver is entering (except a vehicle making a U-turn at the intersection); and
(b) any other vehicle or pedestrian on the slip lane.
So if any vehicles are performing a u-turn, they must give way to all other vehicles and pedestrians, including to vehicles turning left from a slip lane.
Do you or someone you know, have a learner driver that would like to complete the Learn Drive Survive® Safer Drivers Course and receive 20 additional hours in their learner logbook? If so, please forward the following information to them. Alternatively, book a course here.
Learn Drive Survive® SDC
1800 898 989
We hope we have been able to assist you.
Thank you.
Learn Drive Survive Team
Thank you so much, really appreciate it!
Hi, I use a busy intersection on the corner of Rosehill Road and Victoria Street Warwick, 4370 daily. A common occurrence is to be abused by the car entering the intersection from the south who is turning across the traffic into Victoria street to the east. I am heading south and they are in line of traffic but get to the intersection just as I roll to a stop. If they beat the oncoming car heading straight by a few seconds does this mean they have right away as they can use the few seconds required to stop to cut across?
Hi Nicola,
From the information that you have provided, if 2 vehicles travelling along Rosehill Rd (from opposite directions) come to a stop together, the vehicle turning must give way to the vehicle travelling straight. In the same scenario, if the turning vehicle approached and stopped several seconds before the vehicle travelling straight, they don’t have to wait for the opposite vehicle to slow down and come to a complete stop before they can proceed. In saying that, it’s crucial to ensure that the opposite vehicle has identified the STOP sign/line and is preparing to stop instead of continuing through and failing to give way. Otherwise, the situation could result in a serious injury or fatal crash.
If both vehicles approach together and it’s the difference of just a couple of seconds, it’s best to give way where required.
Thanks kindly for reaching out and we hope we were able to answer your question.
Regards
Learn Drive Survive® Team