Navigating the Right Turn :

Last updated:

📜 Highway Code Regulation 🚘 Independent revision guide 🌐 Multi-Language Translation Support

🖼️ Official Visual Diagram

Highway Code Rule 181

📖 Rule 181 Full Regulations & Explanation

Rule 181 ↗
When turning right at crossroads where an oncoming vehicle is also turning right, there is a choice of two methods

turn right side to right side; keep the other vehicle on your right and turn behind it. This is generally the safer method as you have a clear view of any approaching traffic when completing your turn
left side to left side, turning in front of each other. This can block your view of oncoming vehicles, so take extra care. Cyclists and motorcyclists in particular may be hidden from your view. Road layout, markings or how the other vehicle is positioned can determine which course should be taken.

Text shown in the rule image

Navigating the Right Turn :

Rule 181 Guide

RIGHT SIDE TO RIGHT SIDE ( TURNING BEHIND )

LEFT SIDE TO LEFT SIDE ( TURNING IN FRONT )

Keep the vehicle on your right. Turn behind the oncoming vehicle so that your right side passes their right side .

Generally the Safer Method. By turning behind the other vehicle , you maintain a clear , unobstructed view of any traffic approaching from the opposite direction .

Turn in front of each other . Both vehicles pass each other on their left sides to complete the turn .

Caution : High Blind Spot Risk . This method can significantly block your view of oncoming traffic ; take extra care before proceeding .

Watch for Hidden Cyclists . Smaller road users , particularly cyclists and motorcyclists , are frequently hidden from view during this maneuver .

DECISION FACTORS

What determines the course ? The choice of method is often dictated by specific road layouts

existing road markings

or the physical positioning of the other vehicle .