Teaching crossroads - Practise

Nearside or offside passing

Many students (and some instructors!) get a bit confused when it comes to 'nearside' or 'offside' passing at crossroads. NEVER try to explain this rule without a diagram! See examples on the DriverActive Crossroads page - Turning Right information.

Offside-to-offside passing might be the safest way to deal with junctions, however, at many junctions there is not enough space to allow this and those that do have enough space often have a high volume of traffic which makes offside passing impractical. Offside passing can also confuse other drivers. Make it clear that whichever method of passing is chosen at a particular junction it is essential that for observation is made and that other drivers are clearly aware of your intentions.

Flashing headlights

Crossroads offer an ideal opportunity to discuss flashing headlights as people will often give way.

If this happens be prepared to take control immediately, if the situation develops before you have an opportunity to act find the first available place to pull up and briefly explain the rules and dangers relating to flashing headlights.

If you have mixed feelings about the use of flashing headlights or simply wish to gain some ideas about how to explain the dangers take a look at the SmartDriving advice about headlamp flashing.

Next: Traffic lights