Approaching Junctions (Major to Minor Roads)

The first thing to do with junctions is recognise they are coming up, simply looking well ahead and being mentally prepare is key. These Junctions can be identified by lines appearing in the road such give way or hazard, changes in the directions of the buildings or traffic passing the end of the road.

Skills you can transfer.

You have already learnt MSPSL it will be very similar.

The MSM routine you have already learnt will be broke in more sections for all junctions expanding on the manoeuvre;

MSPSL =Mirror Signal Position Speed Look

Mirror

Always check at least 2 mirrors as usual starting with the centre mirror assessing the distance position and speed of following traffic and then followed by the door mirror in the direction you intend to turn checking there is no one to the side such as a bicycle or motorbike as you would not want to turn into them.

Signal

A direction indicator should be applied to guide other road users and when you start to brake the brake lights will also show.

Position

Gaining the correct position on the approach to a junction does several things such as backing up you indicator to give following traffic a guide to where you are going.

The position will also help with the steering when you reach your Point Of Turn.

Left

If you are turning left you should hold your normal driving position until the kerb curves off to the left then angle your car in the same direction. Your Homer’s Driving Instructor will give you reference points to line up on the kerb to help you. This will maximise your view of the new road and allow traffic turning right to pass you with ease.

Right

Position just to the left of the centre hazard warning line on the road will allow following traffic who are turning left to pass to the left of you without being delayed and will optimise you view of the new road. Your Homer’s Driving Instructor will give you reference points to line up on the centre line to help you.

Speed

Your approach speed to Junctions is crucial looking well ahead as you first approach will give you a lot of decision making information. If you can see far enough into the new road to make a safe decision on crossing or driving into it well back from it.

Left turn

If you can assess it is safe to drive in you should brake enough to select 2^nd Gear and keep moving providing the corner is not too sharp, remember to avoid coasting by bring the clutch fully up – you will have more vehicle control then.

If your view is restricted or it is a very sharp turning then and a slower approach should be taken selecting 1^st Gear bring the clutch up again.

Right Turn

Assess the oncoming traffic level, think to yourself would I be able to walk across the road with the on coming traffic if you could select 2^nd gear again no coasting here bring the clutch fully up.

Look

Always look early, you can never have enough information on what’s going on ahead at the junction, traffic levels, pedestrians, and parked cars around the junction. The minimum observations to be taken is either; Right turns ahead – right –ahead right Left turns ahead left- ahead – left.

Once you have entered the new road and taken up your normal driving position always check your centre and right door mirror to update yourself on the new road traffic.