Mind the gap: why queuing across an intersection is dangerous
Have you ever tried to make a turn in peak-hour traffic but there are cars blocking the intersection? Frustrating, right!
As the streets become more congested, impatient and inattentive motorists queue across intersections attempting to gain a few metres.
They don’t consider that when the lights change, they might still be stuck in the middle of the intersection, blocking traffic coming from other directions.
This scene plays out daily across Adelaide and it was ranked in the top ten most frustrating driving habits in a 2022 sa move poll.
SA Police data revealed that in 2019 more than 180 motorists were reported for queueing across intersections. However, between 2020 and 2024 the yearly average dropped to just 47. It still happens though. Most road users have probably witnessed motorists queueing across an intersection.
Why is it a problem?
Not only does queueing across an intersection block other vehicles, it also impacts cyclists and pedestrians trying to cross the road.
RAA Senior Traffic Engineer Matt Vertudaches says motorists need to be careful they don’t follow traffic across the intersection unless they can see there’s enough space for their vehicle.
“Queuing across an intersection can lead to dangerous situations because the lights might change, leaving you in the way of oncoming traffic and potentially blocking the pedestrian crossing, putting pedestrians at risk too,” Matt says.
“It’s important to be vigilant with traffic ahead and watch for signs of unexpected slowing that’ll stop you from getting completely across the intersection.”
“Creeping forward a couple of metres into an intersection when traffic is at a standstill achieves no advantage and actually adds time to the journey of all road users.”
This isn’t just a problem at intersections with traffic lights. Queueing over side roads can prevent motorists from entering or leaving the road, leading to a buildup of traffic in turning lanes or side streets. When turning lanes are short, queues can overflow into the through lanes, causing safety issues and traffic delays.
The fine
Not only is it unsafe to queue across an intersection, it could also see you receive a $296 fine, $102 Victims of Crime Levy and three demerit points.
“The best thing to do is just be patient and wait for the intersection to clear,” says Matt. “This will ensure traffic continues to flow in all directions.”