Intersections and turning
NSW road rules and safety advice for driving at intersections, when crossing or entering traffic, and turning right from a one-way street.
Intersections
Trucks and buses need more space to turn wide or cut into traffic.
Always allow enough space on either side of your vehicle to avoid side-swiping other road users or objects.
At intersections you may have to swing wide to make a left turn.
At marked intersections:
- Position your vehicle so that any vehicles behind cannot pass on your left.
- Position yourself to get the best view possible of the road you are turning into.
Bus and truck drivers need to start a left turn further into the intersection than a car so that the back wheels do not run over the kerb.
Crossing or entering traffic
You must choose a suitably large gap in the traffic to get across an intersection, enter a new street or merge with traffic.
Consider the size and weight of your vehicle when crossing or entering intersections, changing lanes, and making other manoeuvres.
Also remember that a loaded vehicle will accelerate slower than an empty one.
Before moving from a stationary position at the side of the road or a median strip parking area, you must signal for at least five seconds, check mirrors and blind spots.
Turning right from a one-way street
If your vehicle (or vehicle and trailer) is 7.5 metres or longer, and has a DO NOT OVERTAKE TURNING VEHICLE sign displayed on the back, you can turn right from the lane on the immediate left of the far right lane.
Plan your turn early so that you're in the correct part of the intersection, and you have time to signal. Avoid turning too soon — because the side of your vehicle may hit vehicles on your right, as the back of your vehicle cuts into the turn.
In a road with two right-turn lanes, always use the turning lane on the far left.
'Do not overtake turning vehicle' signage
If your vehicle is 7.5m or longer, you may display the words DO NOT OVERTAKE TURNING VEHICLE on one of the rear marking plates.
If your vehicle (or vehicle and trailer) is under 7.5m long, you must not display this sign on the back. You must turn with the lanes marked on the road at all times.