The safety of the various road users largely depends on how road users understand and follow the road traffic rules. We bring to you the Rules of driving through junctions according to the Nigeria Highway Code. Don’t be left behind, be informed.
If most Nigerians will stick to this rule, road accidents; unnecessary traffic congestion; road rage will all be minimized. We hope that one day we would start experiencing better driving conditions than what we have today.
According to Nigeria Highway Code, a road junction is the place where two or more roads meet. There are various types of junctions which include:
This is a place where two roads meet in the shape of letter T.
This is a place where two roads meet in the form of letter Y.
3. Cross Road:
A cross road is the place where two roads meet and cross each other. It could be in the form of: A major road crossing a minor road; or Two equal roads crossing each other.
A place where two or more roads meet, forming a circle that ensures that all traffic must go around in the same direction.
Rules of Using Round-about
When approaching a roundabout:
- Watch out for traffic already on it
- Take special care to look out for cyclist or motorcyclist ahead or to the side
- Give way to traffic on your left unless road marking indicates otherwise
- Keep moving if the way is clear
How to Negotiate a Round-about
When turning right:
Approach on the right-hand lane; keep to that lane in the roundabout and leave by the lane. Use the right turn indicator on approach and through the roundabout.
When going straight:
Approach on the right-hand lane; keep on that lane in the roundabout. Use the right turn indicator at the exit before the one to be taken.
If conditions dictate (for example, if the right lane is blocked) approach in the left hand lane, keep to that lane in the roundabout.
You must signal your intention here to turn right. Enter with the left signal on.
When turning left:
Approach in the left hand lane; use the left turn indicator before entering the roundabout and maintain this signal while keeping to the left-hand lane. On approaching a round-about, maintain it until you leave the area.
When making a U-turn:
- Enter with the left signal on and keep going
- Before exit, change the signal to right
Leaving the roundabout:
When going forward or turning left, always leave the roundabout in the left-hand lane of the exit road, unless conditions dictate the use of right-hand lane.
Mind Other Vehicles:
When in a roundabout, look out for vehicles crossing in front of you to leave by the next exit.
Going Through Intersection:
Give way to traffic on the major road and drive through safely obeying posted signals like STOP or YIELD. Even if you are on the major road, always drive through the intersection as if other vehicles may be crossing or approaching.
Hazard lights, also known as Emergency lights or “double trafficators” are not meant to signify going straight or crossing intersection and should not be used as such. They are STRICTLY for emergencies!