Emerging Right at T-Junctions – Confidence and Control
Turning right at a T-junction takes a little more care than turning left. You’re crossing the path of traffic from both sides, which means you need good timing and observation. Here’s how to do it safely and smoothly.
What Is a T-Junction?
A T-junction is where one road ends when it meets another, forming a ‘T’ shape. If you’re emerging right from the bottom of the T, you’ll be crossing one lane of traffic to join the right-hand flow. That’s why it needs extra focus.
Step-by-Step: How to Turn Right at a T-Junction
- Approach in the correct position
Stay just left of the centre line as you approach the junction. This keeps you in the correct turning position. - Use MSPSL
- M – Check mirrors, especially your interior and right mirror
- S – Signal right in good time without confusing others
- P – Position just left of the centre line
- S – Slow down gently, ready to stop if needed
- L – Look right and right for traffic
- Choose the right gear
Use 1st gear if you need to stop fully. 2nd gear may be okay if you’re emerging slowly and you have a really good view of the road early. - Look both ways — couple of times, right-left, right-left
Check traffic from both directions. You must be sure there’s a safe gap from both sides before emerging. - Turn right safely
When it’s clear, steer across and join the left side of the road. Avoid over or under steering.
Top Tips for Right Turns
- Be patient — don’t feel rushed by drivers behind
- Practise clutch control for smooth, slow emerging
- Never edge out blindly — wait until you’re sure it’s safe
- Watch for cyclists or motorbikes that can be easy to miss
- Give way to pedestrians crossing if safe — they always have priority
What If the View Is Blocked?
Some right turns are at closed junctions — where fences, trees or parked cars block your view. In this case:
- Stop fully
- Creep forward slowly while looking right and left
- Only go when it’s 100% clear
You need a safe gap in both directions — not just one!
Final Thoughts
Turning right at a T-junction is a key driving skill. With practice, you’ll learn to judge the gaps and emerge confidently. If you’re ever unsure — wait. Better to be a few seconds late than make a risky decision.
Still working on it? That’s totally normal — we’ll practise together until it feels natural.