he changes to the give-way rules come into effect at 5am on Sunday 25 March 2012. Until then the current give-way rules apply.These changes will affect all drivers, riders, pedestrians and cyclists in New Zealand. The left turn versus right turn give-way ruleThis applies at intersections where either:
both cars are uncontrolled by signs or signals, or
both cars are controlled by the same sign or signal (eg Give Way signs, Stop signs, or green traffic signals).
Current rules:
Vehicle turning left has to give way.
New rules from 25 March 2012:
Vehicle turning right has to give way.
Uncontrolled T-intersectionsAn uncontrolled T-intersection is one with no Give Way sign, Stop sign, or traffic signals. Current rules:
Vehicle turning right from continuing road has to give way.
New rules from 25 March 2012:
Vehicle turning right from terminating road has to give way.
It is estimated that the changes to the give-way rules will reduce intersection crashes and improve safety, especially for pedestrians and cyclists.
The changes will result in less complex decision-making at intersections. Drivers of left-turning vehicles will only need to check whether there are pedestrians crossing the road into which they are turning, and whether there are any cyclists on the left of their vehicle. The driver of a right-turning vehicle will need to assess only whether there is a sufficient gap in the oncoming traffic.
The changes are also expected to marginally reduce the risk of a right-turning vehicle at an uncontrolled T-intersection being hit in the rear by straight-through traffic.