Driving Lesson Notes #10: How to drive on the road pt 2 (crossings, traffic light, junctions & roundabouts)

In this section, I will explain the rules and how to drive on different types of roads. There will be a separate section for pedestrian stops, junctions, and roundabout.

Watch out for: 1) Driver Cutting in 2) Vehicles entering in 3) Traffic Turning  Right 4) Vehicle emerging from the right?

a) Crossings:

The general rule for the crossing:

• Don’t make any gesture for pedestrians to cross such as waving or using lights, because it would put pressure on them to cross when it may not be safe to do so i.e. traffic from another road.
• There will be zigzag line which means do not wait, park, (un)load or overtake vehicle nearest to the crossing under any circumstance. Parking will restrict the visibility of pedestrians. Overtaking the leading vehicle could result to hitting a pedestrian.

Approaching a crossing:

When approaching a pedestrian crossing:

1. Identify: look ahead and start planning when approaching. Look out for signs, especially when there is crossings in the bend that you can’t see.
2. Check mirrors: check mirrors for any following traffic. If there are vehicles behind us, we can brake more gently to reduce chance of being hit from behind.
3. Slow down and be ready to stop: Also be aware that there may be speed bump as a reminder to slow down.
4. Look: screen both directions. Also, anticipate any pedestrian that may suddenly appear behind other vehicles.
5. Stop: when stopping, stop before the solid white line and allow the pedestrian to cross.
6. Look: Before moving off again, check for any other pedestrian crossing or cyclist passing on the side.
7. Take off: Give time for the pedestrians and cyclists to cross first before taking off.

NB: When stopping at the junctions (especially at the front), it is better to stay on 1st gear with brake because it is easier and quicker to take off. Stopping at neutral with handbrake requires extra steps to take off like changing gear, biting point etc… You can use handbrake if you are behind the traffic and the wait is long.

Types of pedestrian crossings:

(i) Zebra crossing:

• Features: black & white stripes road marking, and flashing amber beacon. There is white zigzag lines when approaching the cross.
• It is the only crossing where pedestrians always have priority.
• If there is an island between the zebra crossing, consider it as two separate zebra crossings. You can pass it if you side is clear and the other side has pedestrians. Only when they enter that island area then you will need to stop for them. But it makes sense to let the pedestrian to cross completely through 2 zebra crossings.

(ii) Pelican crossing  – has traffic light:

• Features: it has traffic controlled by pedestrians. It uses buttons, light signals & sounds to help pedestrians cross safely. It will always be green unless someone presses the button. It is the only corssing that has a flashing amber stage.
• Unusual traffic light sequence: show flashing amber after red. Flashing amber lights means you can pass it as long as there isn’t any pedestrian.
• Usually in more busy and populated areas.

(iii) Puffin crossing – has censored traffic light:

• Feature: it is similar to the pelican crossing but it uses a smart sensor that can tell if the pedestrians are present or the crossing is clear.
• Normal traffic light sequence: red > red & amber > green

(iv) Toucan crossing – for both pedestrians & cyclists:

• Feature: it is similar to puffin crossing but is wide enough to accommodate both pedestrians and cyclists (without dismounting).
• Normal traffic light sequence: red > red & amber > green
• Usually found next to parks or areas with designated cycling lanes.

(v) Pegasus (equestrian) crossing – for both pedestrians & horse rider:

• Feature: work in the same ways as toucan crossing
• Normal traffic light sequence: red > red & amber > green
• Design for pedestrians and horses to cross at a same time
• Usually found in race courses and horse training areas.
• Move away slowly so we don’t startled any horses near by.

(vi) Unofficial crossing  (i.e. traffic island, junction crossing):

• There are unofficial crossings such as when you see a traffic island or a crossing at a junction.
• Approach slowly and cautiously, expecting pedestrians to unexpectedly cross.
• We are not obliged to stop for the pedestrians at these point but we can choose to do so.
• Reason to not stop for pedestrian:
  • When following the traffic light at the junction: a traffic light tells you to go and pedestrians to wait.
  • When driving at a fast speed it is not safe to suddenly stop and risk collision from traffic behind you.
  • When a majority of the traffic is not expecting to stop
  • When stopping will put pressure on pedestrians to cross when it is not safe for them to do so, i.e. when there are other incoming traffic from other lanes.
  • When stopping will cause hazardous confusion, i.e. when both the pedestrian and other vehicle think you are giving way to them at the same time.
  • If they are far away or if there is an island where they can wait.
  • When a pedestrian signal to gives way to you, it is better to take it otherwise it leads to stagnation.
• Reason to stop for pedestrian:
  • When they have already started to cross the road
  • When being forced to, i.e. when they cross without being aware of you or are distracted (i.e. using their phone).
  • If you have to slow down or stop at the junction anyway.
• In most cases, it is risky to stop at junctions, especially if there is traffic. Prioritised being safe. Only give way if it is safe to do so.

Level/Tram crossing:

Approach the level or tram crossing as you do with other crossings as mentioned above. Stop when the red light start flashing, The barrier will be formed.

The wait will be longer than pedestrian crossing. There may be more than one tram or railway that passes so the wait may take longer.

Note that the area is under heavy surveillance, so you don’t want to stop in the yellow box as it is an automatic fine.

b) Traffic light:

Traffic lights may seem easy to understand but it can be tricky in real life and is one of the top ten reason why people fail driving test.

Understanding traffic lights:

What the colours mean:

• Green: go only way the way is clear
• Amber: stop unless it is too late (don’t stop if it means you have to brake harshly)
• Red: stop and wait a the stop line
• Red + amber: stop and wait
• Flashing amber: go if there is no pedestrians  (found only in pelicon crossings)

Colour sequence:

• Green > Solid Amber > Red > Red+Amber (flashing amber for pelicon) > Green

Filter lights:

Don’t go unless the green arrow points in the direction we intend to go. When there is both a red light and a green arrow, we can still go towards the arrow direction.

Secondary traffic lights:

Larger junctions may have a secondary traffic lights at the other side. Once you pass the junction, ignore the secondary traffic lights. The secondary traffic lights does not have a stop line.

It can be useful if you turn right but have to wait in the junction. The secondary traffic light can be similar to the opposite direction, so it will let you know when the traffic also change on the other side.

Stop lines:

Stop at the first stop line. In advance stop line, there are 2 stop lines, one for pedestrians and another for cyclists. Stop at the first line and not at the second line as it will obstruct path for cyclist. However, if we have already cross the first stop line as the lgiths turn red, then stop at the second stop line. This rarely happens but can happen in heavy traffic.

Temporary traffic lights:

Temporary traffic light can be used in road works. Follow the traffic light rules as usual. There won’t be a spot line but there will be a red sign saying something like “when red light shows wait here”.

How drive when there’s traffic lights:

a) How to approach traffic lights:

(i) MSPSL routine:

When approaching Traffic lights “junctions”: Read how to approach junctions below using the MSPSL routine.

NB: If it is not a junction, you do not need to slow down at the traffic light unless there is a hazard.

(ii) Stop or go when it turns solid amber?:

You should know the cut-off point to when to ignore the solid amber light to avoid braking harshly. Solid amber light lasts about 3 seconds. So if you are more than 3 seconds away from the stop line when it turns amber, then you should stop. But if you are closer than 3 seconds away from the stop line when it turns amber, then you should keep going.

(iii) How to control your speed when approaching traffic light:

• Method 1: Maintain at normal traffic speed and when it is still green when 3 seconds away then you can continue to go.
• Method 2: How to prepare to slow down: continue at a normal traffic speed and then get off the gas & cover the brake when you are about 4-5 car lengths before the stop line. When you are about 1-2 car lengths away from the stop line, if the traffic light is green, you can increase back to the road speed and continue going. At this point when you are about 1-2 car length away from the stop line and it is green, do not stop even if it turns to amber because you will be too close to the traffic light and risk collision.

(iv) Don’t go just because it’s green:

Don’t build a habit of going simply because it is green. Assess the situation ahead first. Is there a oncoming traffic? Is there a yellow-boxed junction with a cleared exit road?

b) How to be safe:

• Always slow down and never speed up to beat the lights
• Braking smoothly will more time for traffic behind to see and react. This reduces chance of collision.
• When lights has been green for sometimes: reduce speed incase it might change any moment
• When it is suddenly amber and you are unable to brake smoothly, continue to drive pass the traffic lights

Common mistakes:

Here are some common mistakes that cause people to fail their driving test:

• Waiting on the road when there is a flashing amber and no pedestrians
• Braking too hard at an amber light when they should continue
• Slowing down at a green light that is not at a junction (when there is no hazard).
• Stopping at a secondary traffic light
• Stopping at the second stop-line in advance crossing
• Passing the traffic light junction & being stuck at crossroad junction because the road you intend to enter is blocked by traffic.

 

c) Junctions:

Different types of junctions:

The General Junction Routine above provides the necessary steps to drive in junctions. However, there may be some differences or additional factors to consider when driving into different junctions or categories of junctions. Here are what to consider:

a. Closed and open junction:

Closed junction:

• Speed: Aim to approach closed junction with speed 5mph
• Gear: Approach with 1st gear. This helps us go as soon as we see it is safe.
• Clutch disengaged as it helps to stop the car smoothly or keep rolling if it is safe because expected to stop the car. This . If road is clear, release the brake and enter the road.
• Peep & creep: You may also need to lean forward or safely peep & creep to have a better view if need be
• Stop at the junction before proceeding

Open junction:

• Speed: Aim to approach open junction with speed 10mph
• Gear: Usually, you can approach with 2nd gear if it is safe to do so. Otherwise, keep to 1st gear.
• Clutch engaged

b. T Junction:

You can follow the General Junction Routine with T Junction. Here are what to consider:

• What you should be aware of is that the major road has priority over the minor road. The road across the top of the ‘T’ has priority even without any marking. Recognised give ways signs and road markings (double broken lines and triangle)
• When emerging into a major road:
  • When turning left, we focus on observing less traffic as our main focus is traffic from the right.
  • When turning right and have to pass 2 lanes, we have to focus observing both directions.
• (…)

Emerging in T-Junctions (use Hazard Drill routine)?

c. Y Junction:

There are also different variation of Y-junction.

i) Common Y-Junction:

Common Y-junction is similar to T-junction, except the emerging road is not joined perpendicularly. Joining the road pointing to the right is harder to drive than joining the road pointing to the left because the driving position has better visibility being near to the end of the road. Pillar blind spot also becomes more of an issue. Here are some tips:

•  Treat it like a T-junction by turning to square up the main road so you can have view like in T junction. This will give better visibility.
•  When on the main road and turning into the minor road of y junction, try to be further away from it so you can have better visibility and give more space to turn.
• Signal indicator because even more important because of awkward positioning (for a better view and space to turn).
• Move slowly on 1st gear if views have less visibility.

ii) Y-junction that splits at the end:

Sometimes minor roads split off just before they reach the major road. The split is to aid with vehicles exiting the minor road to turn right and for vehicles wishing to turn left into the minor road from the major road. This is a Y-junction with the major road running across the top and the minor road exiting to the south. You can think of it as a Y-junction on a Y-junction, that has a triangle island.

• Turning left is simple. But turning right becomes more difficult because there could be vehicle coming in from the left hand side (they have priority).
•  Treat it like a T-junction by turning to square up the main road so you can have view like in T junction. This will give better visibility.

iii) Slip road (Y-junction in dual carriageways or motorways):

Dedicated lanes can sometimes be used (green car) to enable traffic filtering off the main carriageway at an exit. Road markings differentiate this lane from the others on the carriageway. This dedicated lane may also be used for vehicles entering the carriageway at a junction prior to this exit. This results in vehicles entering and exiting the same lane.

Motorways and dual carriageways are high speed main routes that have vehicles traveling up to 70mph. In most cases, this exit junction, or ‘slip road’ should be used for slowing the vehicle rather than slowing down on the main carriageway before turning off. Slowing down on the main carriageway can be hazardous for following vehicles.

d. Crossroad junction:

You can follow the General Junction Routine with Crossroad Junction. Here are what to consider:

• What you should be aware of is that the main road has priority over the minor road. So emerging from a minor road, you will need to stop and give way to the main road traffic.
• Who has priority if both vehicles (opposite to each other) are on the minor road? There are no rules for this but it is courteous to let the driver who got there first can go first.
• As it has an extra road ahead in comparison to T Junction, you will need to look at both sides as well as ahead.

Offside to offside (ideal)?

Nearside to nearside?

Turn right before other turn right?

e. Staggered Junction

The staggered junction is similar to the crossroad junction but the minor road is not aligned.

f. Yellow Boxed Junction:

You must not stop on the yellow box unless you are turning right and that the exit path is cleared. Yellow boxed marking is not only found in junction but can be found anywhere such as outside fire stations to keep space cleared. Here is some information regarding the yellow boxed junction:

• Don’t give into pressure of driving into it i.e. when other people are using their horns
• Slow down before yellow boxed junction, make sure the car in front has passed the yellow box
• There can be more than one car waiting on the yellow-boxed to turn right. But don’t risk going if there isn’t enough space as  you may risk being stuck in the pedestrian crossing when the lights turn red.
• If the exit road becomes blocked whilst you are already waiting on the yellow box, try to clear the path for flowing traffic if possible. NB: You can also get fined.

g. Traffic Light Junction:

Traffic light junctions can have different types. But in this section, I will be focused more on the larger advanced crossroad junction.

• Usually traffic light works in pairs. For example, if your traffic light is green, the opposite road is also green. The other two roads (left and right) will be red.
• When turning right: be positioned where the head of your car meets the centre of the road where you are going to turn in to. If you are held by oncoming traffic, then wait without blocking the lanes. If the car in the opposite direction also wants to do a right turn, then ideally pass behind each other before turning because you have better view.  Watch more here.

Rules for changing lanes in mid-junction:

When you are on the wrong lane, it is legal to change lane in mid-junction as long as it is done safely and remain within the rules. However, it is not advisable to change lanes in mid-junction because it can be risky with the short time to figure things out. Here are some rules if you were to change lanes mid-way through a junction:

• You can’t change lanes mid-way of the junction if there is a red light at the lane you want to get into. It is illegal as it is technically considered passing the red light.
• If there is a traffic filter arrow, then only go to those lanes as instructed.
• If you have a green light then all lanes can go.

General Junction Routine:

The junction routine involves MSPSL (Mirror, Signal, Position, Speed, Look) and POM (Prepare, Observe, Manoeurve). The approaching junction routine can be used in all types of junctions including roundabouts, Y Junction etc…

It is important to be cautious when driving in junctions. Junction is where most accident usually happens. Therefore it is important to be good at junctions and be extra careful here. Here are some important tips to do well in junction: (i) do the MSPSL routine early, within about 10 seconds, so there is enough time to look at the road and make safe decisions. This will also avoid avoid harsh braking and poor decision. (ii) begin with focusing on one routine at a time, without trying to do it all in one go, otherwise you would be overwhelmed and confused. This means saving the Look and Decision routine at the end of the stage, and not letting it affect the prior routine of MSPS. Over time with more practice and experience, you will be able to do it in a shorter time and almost multitask. The here is the routine:

a) Approaching junction:

When approaching a junction, it is important to slow down early and be ready to stop if need be. Have enough time to observe and make decisions on what to do. We slow down following the MSPS(G)L approach – Mirrors, Signal, Position, Speed, “Gear” and Look/Decision.

1. Identify junction:

• Look for signs and road markings. The hazard line also warns that there is a junction.

2. Mirror & Signal (Check mirrors & use the indicator):

• You usually start the MSPS(G)L routine when you can see the give-way line at the end of the road
• Mirror (safety screen check & mirror check): Check the centre mirror & then left mirror.
• Signal: Signal to indicate if you are going left or right. Use no signal when going ahead. Do not misled others with signal such as signally before a junction you to not intend to turn or signalling too late.

3. Position, Speed & Gear (Position on the lane, slow down and change gear):

• Position: Position yourself on the lane that will lead to your intended new road (as instructed on signs and road markings). Also position yourself in an appropriate position on your lane in regards to turning left, right or going ahead.
  • Usually on one way road, you need to position yourself on the lane that will lead to your intended direction of turn. Follow the instructions on the signs and road markings.
  • When planning to turn left: keep your normal driving position. Position when stopping: if the kerb sweeps around to the left on approach to the junction (bell mouth junction), then steer nearer to the left, follow it around and stop before the give way line at an angle. The give way line should appear under your right mirror (driver side). However, if the kerb is straight all the way to the junction, stop at a normal position behind the junction line (about 20cm). The driver should no longer see the line in front of the car at this point.
  • When planning to turn right: be positioned just left of the centre of line. Find out how to visually know you are right at the lane (about 20cm from the center line). Find where the line should appear from your position. In narrow road you would keep in normal position position.
• Speed (slowing):
  • How to slow down: ease off the gas and brake progressively to slow down to a walking pace. Aim for about 5mph on closed junctions and 10mph on open junctions. You do not have to change down through the gears but dip the clutch (before the car starts jumping).
  • Factor affecting braking distance: consider the stopping distance when factoring in different conditions, i.e. driving speed, steepness, wet or icy road. Going uphill will naturally create more resistance so use less braking power and brake more later.
• Gear: Change gear early – about 5 seconds or 3 cars length before the junction. Clutch down and change gear (1st gear for closed junctions & sharp corners, and use 1st-2nd gear for open junction). NB: Pressing on the clutch 2-3 car lengths before stopping helps to prevent stalling. Press on the clutch when the car gets jerky.
• Rolling (& looking): Allow the vehicle to roll (only have clutch down without brake) to the junction and be ready to use brake control your speed or stop when needed. [NB: some may have the clutch up means it’s easier to move off by just pressing the gas pedal???]. You can take the opportunity to see if it is safe and appropriate to continue to drive through the junction or stop at this point. Glance both directions twice whilst approaching the junction. If the road you are on is uphill or downhill, your instructor will explain this area in more detail.  

b) At the junction (stopping/rolling & look/decide):

1. Look/Decide when not stopping at the junction:

• There are times when you can pass a junction without stopping if it is safe and appropriate to do so. This is usually the case on an open junction where you can see ahead without obstruction and when there are no stopping signs or road markings.

2. Stopping at junction:

• Reason for stopping: sometimes you stop to give way to the traffic at the main road as you emerge from a minor road or sometimes you will need to stop at the junction as instructed by the stop sign or road marking (solid white line etc…).
•  How to stop: With clutch down and brake fully. Use handbrake if you need to wait for a while busy traffic or in slopes.
• Stop position:
  • When planning to turn left: (i) Bell mouth junction: If the kerb sweeps around to the left on approach to the junction, steer nearer to the left, follow it around and stop before the give way line at an angle. The give way line should appear under your right mirror (driver side). (ii) If the kerb is straight all the way to the junction, stop at a normal position behind the junction line (about 20cm). The driver should no longer see the line in front of the car at this point.
  • When planning to turn right: You will know when you stop just before the give way line – about 20cm behind. Aim to stop when the dash line looks like it touches the bottom of the side mirror (driver side) or when the road markings disappear under the front of your car. This can be different for every vehicle so ask your driving instructor and make sure you practice this manoeuvre in quieter areas initially.
  • When planning to go ahead: You will know when you stop just before the give way line – about 20cm behind.
• Do not stop too early as this will make it difficult to view the road, and stopping too late can put the vehicle in a dangerous position overhanging.
• Adjustment:
  • If you have poor visibility such as having your view blocked by a parked vehicle or in a closed junction, then you can lean forward for a better view. You can also safely creep forward if necessary. Creeping involves slightly moving by adjusting the pressure on the brake pressing – slightly releasing the brake and brake down again when needed.

3. Look/Decide at the stop:

• Looking process: Look twice at both sides (including the road ahead in crossroad junctions). Check the mirrors before the manoeuvre.
• What to look for:
  • Where the other drivers are going: Do not trust only the signal from other drivers, but also consider their speed (slowing heavily into the turn), position and angle to anticipate their direction.
  • Is there traffic on the new road you want to enter?
  • Speed of traffic: spend time to see the speed of the traffic so you can match it when merging into it.
• Do not take off if in doubt: If in doubt about moving into the junction; do not move. Only move when you are confident it is safe to do so.

c) Taking off at the junction:

In the previous part when approaching the junction, it used the MSPSL routine. In this section when taking off from the junction, it over laps with L (Look/Decide), quick check (Mirror) and then Manoeuver.

(i) When turning to the left:

• At this point:
  • Signal: left signal should already be on
  • Position: (i) normal driving position if the kerb is sharp, (ii) more to the left lane and angled to the left,  being ready to follow the angle of the kerb in bell shape junction. NB: larger vehicles will have slightly different position
• Observe (screening & mirror): look at both sides (including ahead in crossroad) and the interior mirror (for the distance between the vehicle behind you) and the left side mirror. Especially look out for unexpected cyclists on the left-hand side mirror.
• Manoeuvre:
  • Taking off from a stop position: off the brake > a little gas, clutch on biting point & hold (it would start to move)> release clutch > start steering > add more gas when needed. NB: make sure the clutch is released before turning to avoid coasting and losing control.
  • Rolling on 1st gear (when not stopping): ease off brake (if used) > add a little gas, hold the clutch in biting point > release clutch > start steering > more gas when needed.
  • Rolling on 2nd gear (when not stopping): when on 2nd gear release the clutch > off the brakes to let it roll.
  • NB: When you need to slow down or stop again due to an unexpected on-coming object, then bring the clutch back down and press the brake. Pressing on the brake lightly will allow the car to move very slowly.
• Point of steering:
  • When at a bell-shaped junction (gentle curve kerb): keep close to the kerb and follow the angel of the kerb until you reach the new road
  • In a sharp kerb: from normal road position, start steering when the pavement is seen mid-way on your left car door or disappears in the front window. This can be different for every vehicle so ask your driving instructor and make sure you practice this manoeuvre in quieter areas initially.
• On the new road: turn off the signal and be prepared for pedestrians crossing etc…

(ii) When turning to the right:

• At this point:
  • Signal: Right signal should already be on
  • Position: Right side of the lane (20cm from centre line).  Some busier roads may have a specific area for you to wait in.
• Observe (screening & mirror): look at both sides (including ahead in crossroad) and the interior mirror (for distance of vehicle behind you) and right side mirrors. Especially check motorcyclists that can speed past you on your right side.
• Manoeuvre:
  • Taking off from a stop position: off the brake > a little gas, clutch on biting point & hold (it would start to move)> release clutch > start steering > add more gas when needed. NB: make sure the clutch is released before turning to avoid coasting and losing control.
  • Rolling on 1st gear (when not stopping): ease off brake (if used) > add a little gas, hold the clutch in biting point > release clutch > start steering > more gas when needed.
  • Rolling on 2nd gear (when not stopping): when on 2nd gear release the clutch > off the brakes to let it roll
• Point of steering:
  • When entering a major road: Start steering right when you enter into the major road. When on the new major road, straighten the wheel just before the car is straight on the road.
  • When entering a minor road: usually start steering when the front of your car is level with the middle (centre lane) of the new road you are turning into. This is usually when you see your right mirror (driver side) aligns with the middle (centre line) of the road you are turning into. This can be different for every vehicle so ask your driving instructor and make sure you practice this manoeuvre in quieter areas initially. Do not cut into the other lane of the new road as you may be faced with a driver who is emerging from the road. It is equally important not to turn too late as this may result in touching the kerb of the pavement. When on the new minor road, straighten the wheel just before the car is straight on the road.
• On the new road: turn off the signal, be prepared for pedestrians crossing etc…

(iii) When going ahead:

• At this point:
  • Signal: you should already have no signal
  • Position: be on a normal driving position at the junction or it should be angled to where you want to go ahead (if the crossroad is staggered).
• Observe (screening & mirror): (…)
• Manoeuvre:
  • Taking off from a stop position: off the brake > a little gas, clutch on biting point & hold (it would start to move)> release clutch > start steering > add more gas when needed. NB: make sure the clutch is released before turning to avoid coasting and losing control.
  • Rolling on 1st gear (when not stopping): ease off brake (if used) > add a little gas, hold the clutch in biting point > release clutch > start steering > more gas when needed.
  • Rolling on 2nd gear (when not stopping): when on 2nd gear release the clutch > off the brakes to let it roll
• On the new road: turn off signal, be prepared for pedestrians crossing etc…

c) Gear & pedal work:

In this section I will focus on what to do with the gear and pedal:

i. When stopping at a (closed) junction – using 1st gear w/ clutch “down”:

1. Identify, Mirror, Signal & Position
2. Speed (slow down): off the gas > brake (until <5mph) > then put
3. Change gear (when about 3 cars length before the junction): clutch down & change gear (1st gear)
4. Roll into 1st geat until fully stop: continue to have the clutch down and use the brake to control the speed until fully stop. Use handbrake when needed.
5. Taking off (into new road): ase off brake (if used) > add a little gas, hold the clutch in biting point > release clutch > start steering > more gas when needed. [NB: clutch is down because it can’t be up as the speed is too slow and may stall]
6. Pick up speed: whilst controlling the gas, up the gears (clutch & change gear)

ii. Creeping at (open) junction without stopping – using 1st gear w/ clutch “down”:

1. Identify, Mirror, Signal & Position
2. Speed (slow down): off the gas > brake (until <5mph)
3. Change gear (when 3 cars length before junction): clutch down & change gear (1st gear)
4. Roll & look: continue to have the clutch down & off the brakes to let it roll (be ready to stop with the brake if the road is not clear)
5. Manoeuvre (into a new road): ease off brake (if used) > add a little gas then release the clutch a little until biting point (the car will start moving and turning) > completely off the clutch > more gas. [NB: if need to temporarily slow down then clutch down and brake, and move again with a little gas, release the clutch a little until biting point & then hold on to it (car starts moving and turning)
6. Pick up speed: whilst controlling the gas, up the gears (clutch & change gear)

iii. When approaching (open) junction without stopping – on 2nd gear w/ clutch “up”:

1. Identify, Mirror, Signal & Position
2. Speed (slow down): off the gas > brake (until ~10mph)
3. Change gear (when 3 cars length before junction): clutch down & change gear (2nd gear)
4. Roll & look: when on 2nd gear release the clutch & off the brakes to let it roll (be ready to stop with the brake if the road is not clear)
5. Manoeuvre (into a new road): let the car continue to roll (without brake or clutch) when turning and add gas when needed.
6. Pick up speed: whilst controlling the gas, up the gears (clutch & change gear)

NB: Use can be on 2nd gear with clutch “down”. However, it is less ideal because accelerating the car will have extra steps (of pressing gas + clutch on biting > releasing clutch). It is easier to have the clutch up and simply press on the gas when you want to accelerate.

d) Roundabout:

Roundabout:

Tips:

• Beginners should start with first gear until they are more confident. Standard roundabout should be in second gear.
• Don’t rely on signal as some driver don’t always use signal, especially when leaving the roundabout. They usually indicate when going right. Drivers in small roundabout is also likely to use their signal.
• When on the right lane and trying to exit, move to the left as early as you can (as you pass the previous exit). So check mirror just before passing the previous exit, then use the signal & start moving as pass it. Edge and close off the space on your left early to let other drivers know you are exiting.
• Make sure you get to the left lane as soon as you can in a dual carriage way to avoid failing driving test. It is better to do so during the roundabout which is safer.
• Avoid misleading signals. i.e. if there are two lanes on your left and you plan to turn into the second road but you signal left before the first road. People will think you are leaving and will pull off for you which is not safe. Another example is when the 3rd or 4th exit is right near each other. If you signal right it makes other assume you will turn right on the round about and signalling left will make it seems like you are taking the exit before which is dangerous as people will pull out in front of you. So cancel signal and carefully change to the correct lane for leaving exit 4 and put on signal once passing though exit 3.

Rules:

• Go clockwise
• Give way to the right before you enter the roundabout (only give way on the roundabout if there is a give way road sign which is rare)
• Use the sign to indicate whether it is 12 o’clock – do not use by how you see it
• When to approach the roundabout (and not causing others to used brake):
  • When the other car is far on the other side of the roundabout
  • If they are close but going to leave the roundabout: judge when they leave if 1) they signal left (but be aware that they might not use signals), 2) position away from the roundabout, 3) usually accelerate before leaving roundabout.
  • In traffic when cars are moving slowly, you over take the car on the right if they allow you to do so (i.e. letting you know with a nod or give gesture they are happy to wait)
  • Don’t approach the roundabout if not sure
• When to signal left (leaving the roundabout):
  • When leaving the first roundabout: signal left as you approach the roundabout
  • When leaving after first roundabout but before 12 o’clock: don’t signal when approaching around about but only signal before exit (as you past the previous roundabout).
  • When leaving after 12 o’clock: signal right on approach and then signal left before exit (as you past the previous roundabout)
• What lane to use:
  • If approach with other adjacent cars then stick with your lane on the roundabout. There may be road markings to indicate which lane you should be depending on where you decide to exit.
  • If there are no signs or road markings to tell us what lanes to use, then follow the default rule:
    1. Use left lane when when turning left (7- 10 o’clock) or when going ahead(11-12 o’clock) – basically when leaving roundabout before 12 o’clock.
    2. Use right lane when turning right (1-5 o’clock) – basically leaving roundabout after 12 o’clock
    3. NB: The lane we use depends on the direction we are going (left, ahead or right) and not determine number of our exit. There it is important to look at the sign.
  • In 3 or more lanes roundabout, position yourself on the right lane when leaving. Left lane when exiting left, second lane when exiting straight and right lane when exiting right.  Or position on first lane to exit first roundabout, second lane to exit second roundabout, third lane to exit third roundabout and fourth lane to exit fourth roundabout.
  • In 3 or more lanes roundabout, you should move to the next lane each time you past each roundabout until you are on the outer lane before your exit. Carry out safety check before moving lanes and use your side mirror to see.
• Which lane to be when exiting the roundabout?
  • You can exit on either lane but it is ideal to exit on the left lane because most of the time we are instructed to be on the left lane in driving test (especially on a dual carriage way) – unless instructed otherwise by the instructor or signs/markings.
• What speed to be in?
• Some roundabout has traffic lights.
• When the exit is obstructed then be safe and go through the roundabout again. If you can’t go through the roundabout again, then take the wrong exit, which is better than cutting someone else and getting into an accident.

Example of a standard roundabouts (four roundabouts with 2 lanes):

1. When turning left – i.e. leaving first exit (before 12 o’clock): Be on the left lane, check mirror & signal left as approaching the roundabout, and continue to signal until you leave the first exit.
2. When going ahead – i.e. leaving second exit (at 12 o’clock): Be on the left lane, no signal when approaching the roundabout, check the mirror and signal left before leaving the second exit. Then turn off signal.
3. When turning right – i.e. leaving third exit (after 12 o’clock) – turning right: Be on the right lane, signal right as approaching roundabout, and check the mirror and signal left before leaving the third exit.

NB: The exit number doesn’t indicate whether you are turning left, going ahead or turning right. Use the sign to determine which lanes to be on.

Process:

When approaching a roundabout, use the the MSPSL. See the above section on “approaching junction”. NB: MSPSL (Mirror Signal Position Speed Look). For speed, the ideal is gear 2 in manual cars.

1. Before approaching the roundabout (deciding on lanes & lookout for pedestrian crossing)

• Prepare when you see the roundabout road sign.
• Be aware of other things like zebra crossing, traffic light etc….
• Move to the appropriate lane to where you intend to exit as instructed by the signs or road markings. If there are no signs or road markings, use the default rule of using left lane if going left or ahead (when the exit is before 12 o’clock) & using right lane going right (when the exit after 12 o’clock). If you end up in the wrong lane then stay with the rules and take a detour.
• When changing lanes, make sure you check the mirrors and use appropriate signals.

2. Approaching the roundabout:

• Slow down: usually use 2nd gear (it is an open junction) or 3rd in a large roundabout without traffic.
• Be prepared to stop when needed.
• Make sure appropriate signals are on (to indicate whether you are turning left or turning right)
• Look ahead in advance for any opportunity to enter safely into the roundabout – where you may not need to stop
• Adjust speed depending on what you see: good to go? stop? move cautiously with impaired view etc…

2. At the giveway line:

• Look ahead for an opportunity to approach the roundabout: i.e. enough distance, approaching car leaving the roundabout, shielding etc… But also look out for other things like the car in front that may brake or cyclist on the side etc… [NB: the indicators for when a car is leaving the roundabout are the signal, (wheel) angle, position, and accelerated speed.
• Before moving off, make sure to check mirrors (center mirror, door mirror to the direction we wish to turn towards) and use the appropiate signal.

3. In the roundabout:

• As you launch into the roundabout, you can change to second gear if appropriate (new driver can keep at first gear)
• Maintain good observation and use a signal when appropriate (i.e. signal right when exiting right, signal left when you exit).
• Count each exit as you pass to help you know when you have reached your exit
• Spiral out: In multiple-lane roundabouts, position to the next outer lane as you pass each exit – unless instructed otherwise by signs or road markings to stay on the lane.

4. Exiting the roundabout

• After you pass the road before your exit, prepare slightly early by checking the mirror to see if it is safe to exit and as you pass the road signal left and then safely drift to the outer left lane. This will allow other drivers to know your intention to exit. Avoid suddenly and abruptly driving from the inner lane to the exit as it may surprise other drivers and cause accidents.
• If you are unable to exit (i.e. when being blocked by the adjacent car), continue on the roundabout on the inner lane for another lap until you can exit safely.
• You may accelerate as you exit the roundabout.
• Turn off the signal indicator after you exit the roundabout.

What to do if you are in the wrong lane?

1. Change lane mid-way through the roundabout:

• You can change lanes mid-way through the roundabout as long as it is safe i.e. change from left to right before you approach the first exit.

2. When unable to change lanes mid-way through the roundabout:

When you are unable to change lane mid-way through the roundabout because it is being blocked or unsafe to do so, here are what you can do:

• If you are on the right lane when approaching the roundabout but unable to move to the left lane: Stay on the right lane and go all around the roundabout until the opportunity to exit.
• If you are on the left lane when approaching the roundabout but unable to move to the right lane: There’s not much you can do so just stay on the left lane, exit and take a detour.

Double roundabout:

Tips:

• Focus on one roundabout at a time so you won’t get confused

Rules:

• Reading signs: you start from the bottom left of the sign

 

Spiral roundabout:

[Watch]…

Use google map to check what lane to use

Mini roundabout:

Tips:

• Most driver uses signals in mini roundabout.

Rules:

• Give way to the car on your right (drive side) and not give way to the car on your left side (passenger side).
• Make sure you use signal: left when turning left, no signals for straight and right signal for turning right.
• When to approach roundabout:
  • When car on the right approach and act as a shield for the car on the left
  • When the approaching car signal it’s exiting  (???)

Double mini roundabout:

Tip:

• Go slow between the two roundabout so you can decide what to do
• Signal normally happen when you are on the first round about since there isn’t much distance between the two
• Connecting road between the two roundabouts is short and likely to be get blocked by the queue of  cars. So wait in the first roundabout until it is cleared to avoid being stuck in the roundabout.

Magic roundabout:

Tips:

• Treat each mini-roundabout individually.
• Avoid looking at all the other cars on the roundabout except for cars that you need to look out for (i.e. cars that acts like shield).
• Take the route with the least number of roundabout