Meeting Traffic – Who Goes First and How to Handle It Safely
Meeting traffic is when two vehicles approach each other and there isn’t enough space for both to pass at the same time – usually because of parked cars or a narrow road. These situations are common in everyday driving, and learning how to handle them calmly and correctly is an important skill for every learner driver.
What Is a Meeting Situation?
A meeting situation typically happens when you’re driving along and there are parked vehicles or an obstruction on one side of the road. If another vehicle is coming the opposite way, you’ll need to work out who should go first – and how to keep everyone safe and moving.
Who Has Priority?
Priority in meeting situations depends on who has the obstruction on their side:
- If the parked cars are on **your side**, you should normally **give way** to the oncoming vehicle.
- If the obstruction is on **their side**, they should normally give way to you.
- If there are obstructions on **both sides**, neither driver has clear priority — in this case, you’ll need to use good judgement, slow down, and often take turns passing safely. Be prepared to stop and give way if needed.
But remember, this is **not a strict rule** – you still need to assess each situation as it happens. Just because you technically have priority doesn’t mean the other driver will wait. Always be ready to respond safely.
How Much Clearance Do You Need?
Try to leave at least a metre between your car and any parked vehicles as you pass. That gives you space if a door opens or a pedestrian steps out. If the gap looks too narrow, slow right down and be prepared to stop. Don’t squeeze through tight spaces at speed – it’s better to wait and go through safely.
What Is the Hold-Back Position?
When you’re waiting for oncoming traffic to pass, hold back about 2–3 car lengths behind the parked vehicle. This gives you room to steer out smoothly and a clear view of the road ahead. Don’t wait too close to the obstruction – that can leave you stuck or cause a traffic block.
Should You Use MSMPSL in a Meeting Situation?
Yes – the MSMPSL routine (Mirrors, Signal, Manoeuvre, Position, Speed, Look) still applies, even if you’re not turning.
- Mirrors: Check behind, especially your right mirror for overtaking vehicles, and assess who’s following.
- Signal: Usually not needed unless it helps others understand your intentions – for example, if you’re pulling out on a dual carriageway.
- Manoeuvre: Start preparing early.
- Position: Move to the centre line when safe.
- Speed: Slow down or stop if necessary.
- Look: Keep checking for oncoming traffic, pedestrians, and hazards.
You won’t always need a signal, but your position and speed should make your intentions clear to others.
How to Decide Early and Prepare
The key to meeting situations is early decision-making:
- Look ahead as far as possible – spot obstructions early.
- Decide: Do you need to give way, or do you have priority?
- React early – don’t leave it too late to slow down or stop.
It’s always safer to hold back than to rush or take a chance.
What If Other Drivers Get It Wrong?
Sometimes other road users won’t give way when they should. If that happens, stay calm and be flexible. The most important thing is to **avoid a standoff** or a close call. If in doubt, stop and let them through – even if it’s technically your right of way.
Being the more patient and considerate driver is always the safer choice.
Final Thoughts
Meeting traffic is all about staying aware, making early decisions, and being ready to adapt. If you approach every situation with the right routine, good observation, and patience, it becomes a routine part of driving.
In your lessons, we’ll practise meeting situations in real traffic so you feel confident judging gaps, reading other drivers, and keeping things safe and smooth.