Learning Hub
Master the MSPSL routine to negotiate junctions with confidence. Learn how to observe effectively, signal in time, and position your vehicle for safe turns.
Every time you approach a junction, you must follow the MSPSL routine. This ensures you are safe, seen, and ready to negotiate the hazard.
Check interior and side mirrors early to assess following traffic.
Give a clear signal in good time to warn other road users of your intent.
Move into the correct position or lane for your turn (Left or Right).
Adjust speed. Gear down if necessary (usually 2nd gear for turns).
LADA: Look, Assess, Decide, Act. Is it safe to proceed?
The most common type of junction you will encounter is the Give Way junction. It is marked by double dashed lines across the end of the road and an inverted triangular sign.
At a Give Way junction, you are not legally required to stop if the way is clear, but you must be prepared to stop if there is traffic on the major road. Your speed on approach should be slow enough to allow you to make effective observations and stop safely if needed.
Look early, look often. Can you see traffic on the major road? If clear, you can proceed in 2nd gear (approx 10-12 mph). If unsure, slow down or stop.
Recent changes to the Highway Code (Rule H2) have updated priorities at junctions. You must now give way to pedestrians who are crossing or waiting to cross a road you are turning into or out of.
Always check for pedestrians on the corners of the junction before you turn. If they are waiting, stop and let them cross safely before proceeding.
Your view of the major road determines how you approach. Junctions are categorized as 'Open' or 'Closed' based on visibility.
An Open Junction gives you a clear view of the major road well before you reach the give way line.
A Closed Junction has restricted visibility. Hedges, walls, fences, or parked cars block your view of the major road.
Stop junctions are identified by a solid white line across the road and an octagonal 'STOP' sign.
Stop signs are placed where visibility is extremely restricted ("closed") and dangerous, or where traffic on the major road moves at high speed. It is impossible to see safely while moving.
You MUST stop your vehicle completely at the solid white line. Even if you think the road is clear, you must bring the wheels to a complete halt before observing and proceeding. Failing to stop is a serious driving fault and illegal.
An unmarked junction is exactly what it sounds like: a crossroads or junction with no lines, signs, or traffic signals to tell you who has priority.
These are commonly found in residential areas, country lanes, or older parts of towns. Because there are no "Give Way" or "Stop" lines, no one has automatic priority.
Treat these with extreme caution. You should:
Now that you can safely approach and emerge from T-junctions, it's time to apply these skills to more complex spiral roundabouts.