Recognising a blocked intersection before entering it

A green light can draw your attention forward while a queue hides the space you need beyond the intersection.

A green light can draw your attention forward while a queue hides the space you need beyond the intersection. Look past the signal to the receiving road. Entering without room to clear can obstruct people travelling in other directions.

Understand the situation

Read the official NSW traffic-light guidance and observe the whole intersection. The signal is one part of the decision; pedestrians, turning vehicles and available space still matter. A queue that moved a moment ago may stop again before you reach the other side.

Before you practise

• Look beyond the stop line and across the intersection
• Check whether the receiving lane has enough space
• Keep observing rather than following the car ahead automatically

A focused practice session

During a lesson in suitable traffic, discuss how you assessed space at several controlled intersections. While parked afterwards, compare the earliest cue that the exit might block. Practise identifying that cue sooner on the next drive.

A situation to discuss

A green signal appears, but the receiving lane is filled by stopped vehicles. Watch the available space instead of simply following the car ahead. If there is no room to clear the intersection, wait as required by the road rules. The next signal phase will not be made safer by having your car stranded across the junction. Discuss the decision afterwards so pressure from following drivers does not become the deciding factor.