TYPES OF JUNCTION
Junctions represent one of the most hazardous sections of UK roads. Statistically, most motorcycle accidents happen at or near junctions, and as a result you’ll need to become a master of all types of junctions, gaining an understanding of how they work, and how to correctly judge other road users. Let’s take a look at the various types of junctions you’ll encounter and how best to approach them.
1 T-JUNCTIONS
A T-junction is formed when a minor road ends to join a major road, but how you deal with it depends on what else is going on.
2 CONTROLLED JUNCTIONS
If there’s a set of traffic lights, then priority is dictated by them.
3 MARKED JUNCTIONS
If there’s a ‘Stop’ sign along with road markings, then you need to stop at the line before joining the major road.
If there’s a ‘Give Way’ sign along with road markings, then you should prepare to give way to traffic on the major road.
If there are only ‘Give Way’ markings on the road, then it’s probably a quieter road than the one with signs and road markings.
4 UNMARKED JUNCTIONS
If there are no signs or road markings, then no one has priory. Approach each junction with caution and prepare to stop.
5 Y-JUNCTIONS
Y-junctions are essentially junctions for minor roads, either to the left or right of a major road. They’re named Y-junctions as a result of the harsh angle the minor road takes from the major road.
6 STAGGERED JUNCTIONS
At staggered junctions, minor roads join the major road from both the right and left, but unlike a crossroads, the roads aren’t directly opposite each other.
7 JUNCTIONS ON BENDS
Junctions on bends require extra caution. They are particularly hazardous when turning right from a major road that bends to the left due to your field of vision being limited, so it’s important to always look well ahead for advanced warning signs that a junction is located on a bend, so you can prepare to slow down if necessary.