Traffic Lights

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 and most obvious the Traffic Lights.

Skills you can transfer.

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 Traffic Lights Junction does several things such as backing up your 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 Approach

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 Approach

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. The holding position when waiting for on coming traffic to pass is similar to approaching a Right turn. Remember if there is more than one car in front of you waiting to turn right hold back at the Stop Line as you may get stuck in the middle of the lights when they change colour(2 car Rule). Your Homer’s Driving Instructor will give you reference points to line up on the centre line to help you.

Ahead

Take up your normal driving position.

Speed

Your approach speed to Traffic Lights is crucial. Depending on whether the lights are on Red or Green. Looking well ahead as you first approach will give you a lot of decision making information on if you will need to stop and secure they vehicle or remain at a steady speed and drive through.

Look

At Traffic Lights always look early, you can never have enough information on what’s going on ahead at the junction, traffic levels, pedestrians, and parked cars

The minimum observations to be taken are Right-Ahead-Left-Ahead-Right then the direction you intend to drive.

Priority

Priority is similar to the Emerging and Approaching except dealing with the extra road ahead of you. Remember priority is given and never taken. Your Homer’s Driving Instructor will fully cover the priorities on your driving lessons.

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