Give Way Rules, Intersections and Roundabouts
The general give way rules
At an unmarked intersection, give way to any vehicle already in the intersection and to vehicles approaching from your right. At a T-intersection, traffic on the continuing road has priority over traffic on the terminating road, even if the terminating road looks busier. Turning across oncoming traffic means you must give way to vehicles going straight ahead and to pedestrians crossing the road you enter.
Stop and give way signs
A stop sign requires a complete stop at the line, then give way. A give way sign requires you to slow and give way, stopping only if necessary. Both require you to give way to traffic on the road you are entering and to pedestrians.
Roundabouts
Give way to all traffic already in the roundabout, including traffic approaching from your right that is about to enter. Signal left before leaving, and signal right only when you intend to travel more than halfway around. Stay in your lane; do not change lanes within the roundabout. Slow-moving vehicles such as trucks may need both lanes, so give them room.
Common traps
- Thinking a give way sign requires a full stop.
- Forgetting to give way to a vehicle already circulating when you enter a roundabout.
- Assuming a T-intersection gives priority to the busier-looking road.
- Missing that a turning vehicle must give way to pedestrians.
Worked example
You reach an unmarked crossroad. A car approaches from your right. Even if you arrive first, you must give way to it unless you are already in the intersection.
Rule of thumb
When in doubt at an unmarked intersection, give way to the right and to anyone already committed.