Rules of the Road and Right of Way
The basic rule
Jamaica drives on the left, so you overtake on the right and you keep left except when overtaking, turning right or avoiding an obstruction. At a roundabout you travel clockwise and give way to traffic already on the roundabout, which approaches from your right.
Who goes first
- At an unmarked crossroad, give way to traffic approaching from your right.
- At a T-junction, traffic on the through road has priority over traffic emerging from the side road.
- If you are turning across oncoming traffic, you must wait for that traffic to pass.
- Traffic already in a roundabout has priority over traffic entering.
- At a pedestrian crossing, pedestrians on the crossing have priority.
- Emergency vehicles on a call should be given a clear path, but you must not break a red light or mount the pavement to do it.
Overtaking
Overtake only when you can see far enough ahead to complete the manoeuvre and return to the left safely. You may pass on the left if the vehicle ahead is signalling and positioned to turn right, and there is room.
Worked example
You reach a four-way junction with no signs or lights and stop at the same moment as a van on your right. The van goes first. If the van were on your left, you would go first. If a third car arrives opposite you and wants to turn across your path, it must wait for you, because it is crossing oncoming traffic.
Traps that cost marks
- Assuming a flashing indicator gives a vehicle the right of way. It does not; it only signals an intention.
- Waving another driver through, which can pull them into the path of a third vehicle.
- Entering a roundabout without checking right because you are turning left.
- Overtaking on a bend, hill crest, pedestrian crossing or junction.