Traffic Rules, Right of Way and Intersections
The basic framework
Pakistan drives on the left. Right-of-way questions test whether you can apply that fact consistently at junctions, roundabouts, pedestrian crossings and emergency situations.
Priority rules
- At an unmarked intersection, give way to traffic approaching from your right.
- At a roundabout, traffic already circulating has priority; in left-hand traffic it approaches from your right, so you wait at the give-way line.
- When turning right across oncoming traffic, you yield to vehicles coming towards you. Turning left is the shorter, simpler turn.
- Give way to pedestrians already on a zebra crossing, and to emergency vehicles using sirens and flashing lights, without mounting the pavement or running a red light.
- Do not enter a junction unless you can clear it. Blocking the box causes gridlock and is an offence.
Intersections
Look for the stop line, give-way line and any filter arrow. A green circle allows all permitted movements, but a green arrow only protects the direction shown. U-turns are allowed only where not prohibited and only when they do not obstruct others.
Worked example
You reach a roundabout and a car is already circulating from your right, indicating to continue past your entry. You stop at the give-way line and wait. Edging out because you arrived first is wrong: priority depends on who is already on the circle, not on arrival order.
Traps
Applying a "first come, first served" rule at junctions; entering a roundabout without looking right; assuming an indicator gives a vehicle priority; stopping in the yellow box because the light ahead is green; failing to yield when turning right across traffic.