Who goes first at a junction? Without traffic lights the answer usually comes from the priority signs. They set the order at junctions, at crossings of carriageways and on narrow sections where two vehicles cannot pass each other (Article 63.I). This group has no single shape — its signs are taken from other groups (Article 63.II), so learn them one by one.
The main road (2.1–2.3)
2.1 «Priority road» — you are on the main road: traffic from crossing minor roads must give way to you (Article 77.I). 2.2 shows where the main road ends. 2.3.1–2.3.3 are triangles but they are priority signs, not warnings: you are on the main road and a minor road crosses ahead (2.3.1) or joins from the right (2.3.2) or the left (2.3.3) — the thick line is your road.
«Give way» and STOP (2.4, 2.5)
2.4 «Give way» — you are on the minor road: give way to all vehicles on the road you are crossing. If necessary, stop at line 1.13 (a row of triangles) (Article 69.VI.13). If the road is clear, you do not have to stop.
2.5 «No passing without stopping» (STOP) — always stop, even if the road is clear: at stop line 1.12 (Article 69.VI.12) or, without a line, at the edge of the crossing carriageway; then give way as with 2.4. The word «STOP» on the road (1.21) warns that the stop line is near. Sign 2.5 is also used at quiet level crossings (Article 70.VIII).
When the main road turns
Plate 7.13 «Direction of the priority road» may stand under sign 2.1, 2.4 or 2.5: the thick line shows where the main road turns at the junction. Drivers on the main road use the rule for equal roads among themselves — give way to the right — and so do drivers on the minor roads among themselves (Article 77.II).
Three cars, one junction
Problem
In the picture above, A, D and B reach the junction at the same time. In what order do they go?
Show solutionHide solution
Solution
2) Between A and D the give-way-to-the-right rule applies: A is on D’s right.
3) Order: A, then D, then B.
Narrow sections (2.6, 2.7)
Where two cars cannot pass each other — on a bridge, in a tunnel or at road works — this pair sets the order: 2.6 — oncoming traffic has priority, you let it through; 2.7 (blue square) — you have priority, oncoming traffic waits for you.
Remember
- 2.1 — you are on the main road; 2.2 — it ends; 2.3.x — you are on the main road, a minor road ahead.
- 2.4 — give way to the crossing road, stop at line 1.13 if needed; 2.5 — always stop at stop line 1.12.
- When the main road turns, drivers on it give way to the right among themselves (Article 77.II).
- 2.6 — give way to oncoming traffic; 2.7 — you have priority on the narrow section.