16/02/2023
What must I do at Traffic Lights?
It may seem like a simple manoeuvre, turning right at traffic lights, but only a small minority of drivers do it correctly.
This is the scenario.
You are the first driver in line. You have stopped at a red light which then changes to green, (this is a round green as distinct from a filter or green arrow.)
• Remember the line of traffic coming against you has the right of way as they have the same round green light.
What do you do?
You should move to the centre of the junction and wait until there is a break in traffic, approximately opposite the centre of the road into which you intend to enter. Sometimes there will be no break in the line of oncoming traffic, and the traffic light changes to amber and then red.
What is the correct move for you to make?
Simply go; (when safe to do so) and continue with your right turn.
• In this instance, it is legal to drive through a red light. As you are in charge of the junction at that stage.
So why do learner drivers pick up so many faults?
What might those faults be?
Let us take a look when I observe drivers in this situation, the problem that arises is twofold.
• Drivers will incorrectly wait back at the Stop Line when the light turns green. Before you realise it the traffic light changes to red. You have now lost an opportunity to make progress "You will now be marked for progress turning right"
• The second error occurs when you move to the centre of the junction and yield to oncoming traffic, the traffic light turns red. Now you are stuck, you freeze! You are now deemed to be breaking a red light and most likely obstructing the traffic on their right and left which has commenced to take off having got their green light. Unfortunately, that's an automatic Grade 3 fault at a traffic signal.
Remember good driving is not about passing a driving test alone, but this is one area that can so easily go wrong for all of us daily. Are you looking for driving lessons? have you a driving test soon? We cover Finglas, Drumcondra, Glasnevin, Cabra, or Dublin city centre. Contact us on WhatsApp at +353872720764 or visit http:www.edtcarlessons.ie
Here is a final thought there could be a yellow box at the junction. No worries; the manoeuvre is the same, regardless of the yellow box. If you found this article helpful? Don't be shy give it a like and share. Thank you in advance.