Which car has the right of way at this type of intersection? Few drivers know the correct answer.
After years of driving, we think we know the road by heart. Then, one day, an official test makes us doubt ourselves: three cars, a T-junction, different trajectories… and suddenly the famous question “Who will go first?” seems much less obvious. Have you ever experienced that moment of confusion? Then this article will shed light on the subject in a simple, practical and, above all, memorable way.
Why are T-junctions so confusing?
A T-intersection seems simple enough: a main lane, a lane that ends at it, and three drivers who must coordinate their actions. However, when there are no traffic lights or signs to clarify the situation, the logic of right-of-way can become less intuitive.
The reflexes we acquire while driving—right of way, right of way on left turns, paying attention to the main lane—can clash and cause a moment of doubt. The good news is that once you understand the basic rule, everything becomes clear.
Blue car: comes onto the main road and continues straight ahead.
Pink car: comes from the end of the road and wants to turn left.
Yellow car: comes to the right of the pink car and wants to turn left.
No traffic lights, no signs, no priority: how do you decide?
The basic rule is that the main lane has priority.
At a T-intersection, unless a sign indicates otherwise, the vehicle moving in the main lane has priority because it continues to move in the main lane. In our example, the blue car remains in the main lane and does not change direction. Therefore, it moves first.
If you are in the fast lane, you overtake anyone who enters the road first.
Step 2: Determine the order of vehicles turning left.
After the blue car passes, the pink and yellow cars remain, both about to turn left. Their order of passage is determined by a well-known rule:
a vehicle turning left gives way to a vehicle coming from the opposite direction or to a vehicle with a clear lane.
