‘Common’ mistake most drivers make when it comes to box junctions

When it comes to driving, lots of us like to think we know it all.

While it’s important to be confident and safe on the road, you should probably bear in mind that there’s always room for improvement. One driving instructor, called Annie Winterburn, said people actually make a common mistake when it comes to box junctions.

She said lots of people don’t know the rule when it comes to approaching them, and it’s vital to get it right. Annie explained all in a recent TikTok video.

Holding up a map to explain, Annie said: “The rule is you should not wait in this box junction if your exit road – that means the road that you’re going into – is blocked. If the traffic lights change to green, and this car, you want to go ahead, and these cars aren’t moving, you wouldn’t go and wait there because now you’re stuck in the box junction and, if these cars don’t move and the traffic lights change again, you’re stuck.

“You’re blocking people, so the only time that you would have to wait in a box junction is if you’re turning right. If your exit road is clear, it’s not blocked, you still have to wait for oncoming traffic to go past.”

She added: “These cars will go past and you’re not stuck here because you can turn. You need to remember that as soon as you’re over this line here, you’re through the lights.

“So, if you’re here waiting for ongoing traffic to go past, these cars will go past and you can turn. Or the traffic lights will change to red and these cars will stop and, because you’re over the line, you can keep on moving.”

The video has been viewed over 2,000 times since it was shared and people were quick to comment too. They had all sorts of questions for Annie.

One person replied: “Best in the UK to help you understand driving. God bless you Annie.”

Another said: “I’m more worried about drivers at the back beeping. Like I will get a ticket for you.”

A third added: “Your videos are pretty great to be fair.” Meanwhile, a fourth also commented: “This box gives me anxiety every time I go home due to traffic.”

Annie often shares tips and tricks about driving online. She hopes her simple videos will help people to pass their driving theory test.