What lights to use when going straight through an intersection without traffic signals?
3 Answers
When passing through an intersection without traffic signals, you should alternately use high and low beams more than twice, slow down in advance, and signal by alternating between high and low beams while paying close attention to the traffic ahead. At night when approaching an uncontrolled intersection, switch between low and high beams near the intersection to alert vehicles and pedestrians from perpendicular directions and opposite lanes, while also reducing your speed. Below are related lighting instructions: 1. Driving at night without streetlights or under poor lighting conditions (headlights). 2. Meeting non-motor vehicles on narrow roads at night (low beam). 3. Following another vehicle closely in the same direction at night (low beam). 4. Meeting motor vehicles at night (low beam). 5. Passing over bridges or crosswalks at night (alternate between high and low beams). 6. Navigating sharp curves or slopes at night (alternate between high and low beams). 7. Passing through intersections without traffic signals at night (alternate between high and low beams). 8. Experiencing a vehicle breakdown on the road at night that obstructs traffic and is difficult to move (parking lights and hazard warning lights). 9. Driving in foggy conditions (fog lights and hazard warning lights).
As an experienced driver, I often navigate through various intersections without traffic lights. When going straight, I never use turn signals because they're meant to indicate turning movements - going straight means exactly that, and signaling might actually cause confusion. In practical driving, I focus more on safety details: for instance, slowing down to about 30 km/h when approaching such intersections, scanning both sides carefully, especially watching out for pedestrians or cyclists who might suddenly appear. I recommend keeping headlights on, whether it's bright daylight or dim nighttime - this significantly improves vehicle visibility and prevents collisions where other drivers might not see you. I remember one rainy day at an intersection when having my headlights on made an oncoming vehicle yield early, avoiding an accident. Following right-of-way rules is also crucial - typically vehicles from the right have priority. Developing these habits makes driving safer and smoother.
I haven't been driving for long, but during my learning process, the instructor repeatedly emphasized: when going straight through an intersection without traffic lights, there's absolutely no need to use the turn signal because your direction isn't changing. Initially, I was a bit hesitant, but after practicing, I found that signaling actually made the cars behind me mistakenly think I was turning. Instead, I focus on other safety measures, like always turning on the headlights, which are particularly effective on cloudy days or at shaded intersections. When driving, I proceed slowly, frequently checking the rearview and side mirrors to ensure no cars are cutting in. Slowing down at intersections is crucial; otherwise, I've heard of many cases where drivers couldn't stop in time and hit pedestrians. After developing these habits, I've become more confident in driving—staying calm and unhurried is the key.
