April 15, 2026•⏱️ 5 min read•Maneuvers

How to Handle Intersections

Intersections are where most accidents happen. Knowing how to navigate them safely is crucial.

Before You Reach Any Intersection

CHECKLIST - Every Time:

  1. Scan ahead - What are the traffic lights/signs showing?
  2. Check mirrors - What's behind you?
  3. Indicate - If turning, indicate early
  4. ⚡ Slow down - Be ready to stop if needed
  5. Check blind spots - Especially for motorcycles

Traffic Light Intersections

RED Light

Come to a complete stop. Stop behind the stop line or before the intersection. Wait for green.

YELLOW Light

Stop if you can do so safely. If you're too close to stop, proceed through carefully.

GREEN Light

Proceed if the intersection is clear. Give way to pedestrians and vehicles already in the intersection.

Turning at Traffic Lights

️ Turning Left

  • • Keep left unless overtaking
  • • Give way to pedestrians
  • • Can proceed on red if safe (after stopping) - NSW law allows this in most cases

️ Turning Right

  • • Enter the intersection when safe
  • • Wait for oncoming traffic to clear
  • • If blocked, don't enter (blocking the box)

Yellow Box Junctions

The yellow box (intersection ahead) means: DON'T enter unless your exit is clear. If traffic is stopped ahead, wait before the box.

Stop Signs

At a Stop Sign:

  1. 1. Come to a COMPLETE stop (wheels must stop turning)
  2. 2. Move forward slowly until you can see both ways
  3. 3. Give way to ALL traffic
  4. 4. Proceed when safe

Give Way Intersections

At a Give Way Sign:

  1. 1. Slow down to a safe speed
  2. 2. Be prepared to stop
  3. 3. Give way to all traffic on the road you're entering
  4. 4. If no traffic, proceed without stopping (if safe)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ❌ Running red lights - Dangerous and expensive fines ($697 and 4 demerit points)
  • ❌ Blocking the box - Entering an intersection you can't clear
  • ❌ Not giving way properly - Causing collisions with right-of-way traffic
  • ❌ Rushing yellows - Stopping suddenly can cause rear-end accidents
  • ❌ Forgetting pedestrians - Always check for people crossing

Pro Tip:

When waiting to turn right at busy intersections, position your car slightly left of centre so oncoming drivers can see your intention. If the light turns yellow and you're in the intersection, keep going - never reverse!