Staggered Junction Sign: Meaning and Rules

What Does a Staggered Junction Sign Mean?

A staggered junction sign is a triangular warning sign with a red border and two opposing side-road symbols. It alerts drivers that two side roads will join the main road at different points, either first from the left then right or right then left.

Key Details:

• 🚦 Purpose: Prepares drivers for vehicles merging from alternating directions.
• 🛑 Action Required: Slow down, avoid overtaking, and watch for entering traffic.
• ⚠️ Risk: Higher accident potential due to unexpected merging from staggered points.

Example:

If the sign shows a left-then-right staggered junction, the first side road will appear on your left, followed by another on your right a short distance ahead.

Types of Staggered Junctions

Staggered junctions come in two types, depending on the order of side-road entries:

1. Left-Right Staggered Junction
   • The first side road joins from the left, followed by one on the right.
   • Common in areas with phased development (e.g., housing estates).
2. Right-Left Staggered Junction
   • The first side road joins from the right, followed by one on the left.
   • Often seen near highway exits or rural roads.

How to Identify Them:

• Check the sign’s symbols: The first side-road icon indicates the initial direction.
• Look for road markings (e.g., dashed lines, arrows) near the junction.

How to Navigate a Staggered Junction Safely

Follow these steps to avoid accidents at staggered junctions:

1. Slow Down Early:
   • Reduce speed when you see the staggered junction sign to prepare for merging traffic.
2. Check Mirrors & Blind Spots:
   • Watch for vehicles entering from both sides at different points.
3. Yield to Main Road Traffic:
   • If you’re on the side road, wait for a safe gap in main-road traffic.
4. Avoid Sudden Lane Changes:
   • Stay in your lane until clear of both side roads.

Pro Tip:

At night, watch for headlights from side roads—they can help you spot incoming vehicles early.