A learner who says “the car at the top of the T always goes first” has remembered a picture, not the rule. Driving instructors should teach how to identify the continuing road and the terminating road before deciding who must give way. In South Australia, road markings and signs can make the terminating road different from the stem that appears obvious on a map.
Begin with the continuing-road test
At an ordinary unsigned T-intersection, traffic on the terminating road must give way to traffic approaching from either direction on the continuing road. A driver on the terminating road must also give way to any pedestrian at, near or crossing the continuing road. When turning, the driver must also give way to any pedestrian or bicycle rider crossing the road being entered. The rule is not a blanket instruction that every vehicle turning right automatically gives way to every vehicle on its right.
At a modified T-intersection, signs and lane markings may show the continuing road bending around a corner. A driver who follows the visually straight path may actually be leaving the continuing road. Signal requirements and give-way obligations depend on the actual path through the intersection, not simply the angle of the steering wheel.
Build a three-question observation routine
Before approaching an unfamiliar T-intersection, coach the learner to answer:
- Which road continues? Identify road markings, signs and traffic flow before selecting a path.
- Who is on that road? Watch vehicles from both directions and pedestrians or bicycle riders whose paths may conflict.
- Am I following the continuing road or leaving it? This determines which manoeuvre and signalling requirements apply.
Ask these questions well before the give-way line so the learner can slow progressively instead of arriving at the intersection unprepared.
Use two different practice locations
Begin at a straightforward T-intersection where the terminating road is easy to see. Allow the learner to explain why approaching vehicles on the continuing road have priority. Then introduce a modified T where the road markings take the continuing road around a bend. Have the learner trace their planned path verbally before selecting the appropriate signal.
Useful prompts include: “Would you still call this road straight ahead if the line markings curve?” and “Which road user could cross your path if you follow that branch?” Avoid answering the question before the student has examined the markings.
Look for evidence of independent judgement
A learner should be able to identify the continuing road, select a legal path, check both sides, communicate their movement and take an appropriate gap. An overly cautious stop when not required deserves a different coaching response from proceeding without giving way. The first may call for clearer rule recognition; the second is a safety-critical judgement issue.
These are instructional examples, not a substitute for DAA’s formal training and assessment documents or official government assessment criteria.
Official references and further learning
- South Australian Driver’s Handbook: Giving way
- South Australian Driver’s Handbook: Signals
- Australian Road Rules (SA authorised legislation)
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Road-law information checked against the linked South Australian Government sources on 16 October 2026. Educational commentary only; always check the currently authorised rules and the requirements applicable to a specific training or assessment program.