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Junctions & Hazards

Junctions: T-Junctions, Crossroads, and Box Junctions

Junctions are the leading cause of serious driving faults. Learn to emerge safely, give priority correctly, and handle box junctions.

8 min read

Junctions (emerging, turning, and crossing) generate the highest number of driving test faults. Failing to give way, emerging too slowly, and cutting corners are all penalised. This guide covers every junction type you'll encounter.

The Full Guide

Emerging left is generally safer because you only need to check from the right. Slow down, use MSM (Mirror, Signal, Manoeuvre). At the give-way line, look both ways — right, left, right again. Emerging right requires you to also check the oncoming lane is clear before turning across it. Wait until it's safe before crossing. Never rush an emergence to "make a gap".

Common Faults

  • Emerging without looking both ways thoroughly
  • Creeping forward into moving traffic
  • Turning right without waiting for a clear gap in oncoming traffic
  • Cutting the corner on right turns (mounting the far kerb)
  • Stopping in a yellow box junction with exit blocked
  • Not signalling, or signalling too late
  • Stalling in the middle of a junction

What the Examiner Looks For

  • Effective all-round observation before emerging
  • Correct use of MSPSL — approach is as important as the junction itself
  • Appropriate response to priority — waiting when needed, not hesitating unnecessarily
  • Correct lane choice and position throughout
  • Smooth control — not stalling, not lurching

Quick Tips

  • 1At give-way lines, physically look right-left-right before emerging
  • 2Turning right: pull forward into the junction while oncoming traffic passes — it's safe and expected
  • 3Yellow boxes: if you're not sure your exit is clear, don't enter
  • 4MSPSL should become automatic — drill it on every approach

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