7.8 Junction Key Design Issues and Checklist

Junction Layout

The location of the junction should be obvious to everyone approaching the junction. In addition, all users should understand the shape of any junction (e.g. T-junction, crossroad, roundabout etc), the movements permitted at it, and the junction control system (priority, signalised, lollipop etc.).

Junction Approaches
All road users should be guided to their appropriate position in advance of the junction. Good signage and clear lane markings will greatly assist, particularly in poor weather conditions, at night-time, or in unforeseen circumstances (traffic signal failure etc.).

Right of Way
It should be clear to all users as to who is expected to yield priority at any junction. See also Right of Way.

Checklist

The checklist below provides a simple guide to design better and safer junctions.

• Minimise the number of approaches, and preclude right hand vehicle turns to and from minor roads and properties within 50m of a junction.
• Simplify junction layouts by removing slip lanes and avoiding turning pockets where possible.
• Ensure junction entrance and exit lanes are aligned (i.e. no merging or lateral shifts within a junction or the approaches to the junction)
• Minimise exposure of Vulnerable Road Users (VRUs) to significant conflict within junctions (e.g. tighten lane widths to reduce crossing distance, programme staging of main VRU movements immediately after the longest stage etc.).
• Reduce vehicle approach speed (e.g. tighten lane widths, programme non-peak off-sets between signals to dampen traffic speeds to be speed limit compliant)
• Ensure the design provides for all typical movements, or precludes certain movements if necessary (provide clear advice in the case of the latter as to alternative routes).
• Apply the 6-way check.
• Reconfigure oblique junctions to maximise the opportunity for cyclists to make eye contact.