Give Way Rules in NSW
Giving way correctly is one of the most important skills in driving. It prevents accidents and keeps traffic flowing smoothly.
The Golden Rule
If you're unsure, ALWAYS give way.
It's better to be cautious than cause an accident.
Give Way Signs
Give Way Sign
You must give way to ALL traffic on the road you're entering
Stop Sign
You must come to a complete stop, then give way
At Intersections Without Signs
When turning across traffic (no signs):
- 1. Give way to vehicles coming FROM your RIGHT
- 2. If both vehicles arrive at the same time, the vehicle going straight has priority
- 3. Turning vehicles always give way to vehicles going straight
Right of Way Rules
Vehicles on the main road
Traffic already on a road has priority over traffic entering.
↩️ Vehicles going straight
If you're turning and another vehicle is going straight, they have priority.
Pedestrians
Pedestrians crossing at intersections or crossings always have right of way.
Cyclists
Treat cyclists like vehicles. Give way to them at intersections and when changing lanes.
At Roundabouts
Roundabout Rules:
- 1. Give way to vehicles already in the roundabout (from your left)
- 2. Keep left in the roundabout
- 3. Signal left when exiting
- 4. If turning right (3+ exits), signal right when entering and left when passing the exit before yours
U-Turns
U-Turns - You must give way to:
- • All pedestrians
- • All vehicles (including bikes)
- • Any oncoming traffic
Only make U-turns where permitted (signs will show if prohibited).
Merging
When merging lanes:
- • Use your indicator
- • Match the speed of traffic in the other lane
- • Find a gap and merge smoothly
- • The vehicle behind has priority - you must give way to them
Think of it as joining a stream of traffic, not forcing your way in.
Pro Tip:
When you're unsure who has right of way, make eye contact with the other driver. If they wave you through, it's polite to acknowledge. But never rely on others to give way - always be prepared to stop.