Giving way

Learn when you must give way to other vehicles when driving, and find out what to do in different situations and at different kinds of intersections. It’s very important that you know the give way rules.

What is an intersection?

An intersection is where 2 or more streets or roads join or cross, or where a public entrance or exit joins a street or road.

Driving up to an intersection

If any other vehicle is approaching or crossing an intersection, don’t speed up as you approach. Use the system of car control to help you deal with hazards safely.

The give way rules

There are give way rules that apply at intersections. If you’re turning, give way to all traffic that’s not turning.

Giving way at roundabouts

A roundabout is a central island in the middle of an intersection, where all vehicles must travel to the left of the island.

Giving way at railway level crossings

A railway level crossing is a point where the road crosses over a railway line.

Giving way on one-lane bridges

Some roads in Aotearoa have one-lane bridges on them. At these bridges, vehicles travelling in one direction have to give way to vehicles going in the other direction.