BOX JUNCTIONS

Box junctions are seen by many drivers, not just new drivers as something to fear and if possible to be avoided. This needn't be the case when you understand the concept and the procedures involved with this type of junction.

What Do Box Junctions Look Like?

As you can see from the diagram a box junction is easily recognizable by its distinctive yellow crisscross road markings.

Where Would You Find a Box Junction?

Box junctions are normally used on large busy junctions such as traffic light controlled crossroads, T-Junctions and even roundabouts. Anywhere in fact where there is a possibility the flow of traffic could be restricted by traffic wishing to meet and cross one another. The diagram illustrates a large crossroads that incorporates a box junction.

Why Do We Need Box Junctions?

Box junctions make it possible to keep the flow of traffic moving and therefore keep the junction clear, by preventing traffic from stopping in the path of crossing traffic.

How Do We Use Box junctions?

Follow these simple steps and you can't go wrong. Do not enter a box junction unless your exit lane is clear. You may enter the box junction if you wish to turn right and your path is blocked by oncoming traffic. Use the Mirror, Signal, Manoeuvre routine early and this will give you time to assess the junction before you get there. Remember, speed on approach is everything!

Box junctions shouldn't be feared. If anything they make life easier. Like everything else when learning to drive, keep practising.

Steven...

Cockpit Drill, Purpose.

An important series of safety checks which must be carried out every time you get into the driving seat and always before driving.

D.S.S.S.M.

Doors: You must check that all doors of the vehicle are properly shut. As the driver, this is your responsibility.

Seat: Your seat should be adjusted for comfort, control and safety. The base of the seat should be adjusted so that the clutch pedal can be depressed fully, with the left foot, and still have a reasonable bend at the knee. The back of the seat (the rake) should be adjusted so that thesteering wheel can be held at the 'ten-to-two' or 'quarter-to-three' position with a reasonable bend at the elbow. Also check that the hands can slide freely around the whole of the steering wheel without discomfort or obstruction. The head-restraint should be adjusted so that the centre is in line with the top of the ears and is positioned as close to the back of the head as is comfortable.

Steering: In addition to adjusting the set, some vehicles have an adjustable steering column. If moving the column always ensure you lock its position afterwards.

Seat belt: Ensure your seat belt is adjusted properly for comfort and safety. The belt should lay flat across your chest and hips with no twists. Most vehicles have height adjusters at the shoulder point. This should be adjusted so that the belt lays centrally on the shoulder, not on the neck.

Mirrors: The driving mirrors should be adjusted from your normal driving position, for the best view to the rear. The interior mirror should act like a frame of the rear window with a slight tilt to the offside. The side of the vehicle should be just visible in the exterior mirrors with the horizon across the centre of the mirror. Most exterior mirrors have convex glass which is slightly curved which makes things look further away than they are.

Before starting your engine ensure that the handbrake is on and the gear lever is in the neutral position.