How to Deal With Box Junctions
In this article, we’ll discuss what a box junction is, how to drive through one and when it’s best to avoid them. We’ll also cover the dangers of box junctions, including what you should do if you come across one. Whether you’re turning left, right or straight-ahead, you’ll want to know what you should do to stay safe.
What Are Box Junctions?
While it may seem like a frightening experience at first, box junctions are a common feature of UK driving. Drivers entering and exiting them need to wait until the exit road is free of traffic. Similarly, if the right turn is blocked by oncoming traffic or another vehicle, drivers can wait in the box until enough space is available to turn. Nevertheless, once you become familiar with box junctions, you can safely navigate them.
A box junction is a yellow criss-cross junction, which is a controlled intersection. It is designed for motorists to keep clear, usually on busy junctions. Drivers queuing in a box must ensure the exit road is clear so they can make it through. Failure to do so may lead to a fine, and motorists caught breaking this law will be penalised for obstructing traffic. If you haven’t realised it, box junctions are a great way to learn the rules of road traffic.
“The Highway Code Rule 174
Box junctions. These have criss-cross yellow lines painted on the road. You MUST NOT enter the box until your exit road or lane is clear. However, you may enter the box and wait when you want to turn right, and are only stopped from doing so by oncoming traffic, or by other vehicles waiting to turn right. At signalled roundabouts you MUST NOT enter the box unless you can cross over it completely without stopping.
Law TSRGD regs 10(1) & 29(2)”
How To Deal With A Box Junction
Box junctions can be a challenge. The traffic moving through the box can cause you to misjudge your ability to continue on the road without stopping. You could end up parked in the yellow box and have to pay a fine. Instead, you should wait until the traffic on the other side clears and then join the stationary line. If you must drive through the box junction, remember that it is also a safety zone.
In order to prevent road gridlock, you should be aware of box junctions. They’re typically located in the middle of a busy intersection or T-junction. Box junctions are designed to keep traffic moving, so drivers must keep their speed controlled when approaching one of these junctions. They’re also marked with yellow criss-cross markings. When you approach one, remember that traffic lights will be in effect to ensure that no one gets stuck in the box.
When Are You Not Allowed in Box Junctions?
When Are You Not Allowed in Box Junction? There are some important rules to know when you are in a box junction. If you are going straight on, you should not enter into the box junction, if you can see the exit is not clear. Likewise, you should not turn left into a box junction unless your exit is clear, because this can block the path of the traffic turning in from the opposite direction. The best thing to do is to wait until the traffic on the other side has cleared.
If you are stopped at a yellow box junction, you’re likely to be fined for obstructing traffic. In London, this could cost you £70 or more, depending on the borough. However, if you pay the fine within 14 days, the fine can be reduced by 50%. However, the cheapest is way to be extra careful around box junctions and avoid the fine altogether.
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