driver-qualification-handbook-english

3Selecting safe gaps whencrossing intersections: RevisionCrossing intersections can be almost as complicated as making a right turn. Youneed to look for traffic approaching from the left and right and look out foroncoming traffic that may be turning right. Often you will be facing a ‘give way’ or‘stop’ sign as shown in the following picture. This means that the task can be verydemanding, particularly when the road that you are crossing is busy and the trafficis travelling quickly.From a stationary position it takes at least three seconds to cross a typicalintersection on a two-way road. This means that you need at least a three-secondgap between your car and vehicles approaching from the right. You will also needa bigger gap, at least four seconds, for traffic on your left to allow you to cross theintersection in safety and not cause the cross traffic to brake or swerve to avoid yourcar. These gaps are illustrated in the picture.Three seconds– 50 metresFour seconds– 70 metresNot to scaleYou may need less time to cross the intersection if your car is already moving. Thismay be the case when you are approaching a ‘give way’ sign at an intersection andcan proceed across without stopping. However, take care. It is difficult to judge yourspeed and that of other traffic from the left and right. If in any doubt, stop andcross the intersection when you are sure the gap is big enough.94Driver qualification handbook