Road Rules and Giving Way
The core giving-way framework
Most giving-way questions are decided by four things: the type of intersection, whether a sign or line controls it, whether your manoeuvre crosses another vehicle's path, and whether a vehicle is already established in the intersection. Learn the hierarchy rather than memorising isolated scenarios.
At an uncontrolled intersection the default is give way to the right. That default is displaced by signs, stop lines, give-way lines, and by the special rules for turning across traffic: when you turn right, you give way to oncoming vehicles going straight ahead or turning left. When you turn left, you also give way to pedestrians crossing the road you are entering.
Traps that catch candidates
- A stop sign always means stop at the line, then give way; a give-way sign does not require a full stop if the way is clear.
- Turning vehicles give way to pedestrians at the crossing they are entering, not only at marked crossings.
- At a roundabout, give way to traffic already on the roundabout; indicate left to leave and right on approach if turning right.
- U-turns are not permitted where a sign prohibits them, at traffic lights unless a sign permits, and where you cannot see clearly.
- Merging lanes and lane changes: indicate and give way to vehicles already in the lane you want.
Worked rule of thumb
You reach a crossroad with no signs. A car approaches from your right, and you intend to turn left. You give way to the car on your right, and also to any pedestrian crossing the road you are turning into. If instead you were turning right, you would give way to the right-hand car and to oncoming traffic proceeding straight or left. Rule of thumb: identify who is already in or entering the intersection first, then apply signs, then the give-way-to-the-right default, then turning and pedestrian rules.