Green light? Cool story… did you check if the intersection was clear BEFORE ENTERING?

Does a green light mean you have the right of way? No, it doesn’t.Green means “proceed if safe.” That’s because there are several situations where entering an intersection on green can still be dangerous—emergency vehicles crossing, road workers or pedestrians still within the intersection, or a driver running a red light due to distraction or brake failure.

The key point is this: even if your light is green, it’s meaningless if entering the intersection puts you or others at risk. This goes beyond legalities or fault. Your primary concern should always be the safety of yourself, your passengers, and everyone else on the road.

So how do you protect yourself? Drive defensively.

A few simple habits can drastically reduce your likelihood of being involved in an intersection crash—or at least give you more split-second options to minimise damage.

Review the System of Car Control

1. Select your course For example, you’re driving straight through a controlled intersection with a green light.

2. Mirrors / Indicate In this scenario, checking your rear-view mirror is still relevant.

3. Brake You may not need to slow down, but covering the brake and being ready to decelerate is crucial. A green light does not guarantee a safe path.

4. Decision Point This step is vital at intersections. Ask yourself:

• Is the intersection clear? Any debris, trees, or obstructions?

• Are there cars or emergency vehicles that might be about to run a red?

• Are any vehicles turning right across your path—indicator on or not?

• Before you enter an intersection, consider the “what ifs.”

• What if you suddenly need to stop or take evasive action?

• What type of vehicle is behind you, and how closely are they following?

• On multi-lane roads, are there vehicles beside you or sitting in your blind spots?

Developing habits that maximise your situational awareness is essential. To make good decisions at the Decision Point, you need as much information as possible about what’s happening in and around the intersection.

A quick left-right scan before entering a crossroad can literally be the difference between life and death. A green light won’t mean much if you’re hit by someone else’s mistake.

Be the type of driver who refuses to be dragged into other people’s poor decisions.

Be a defensive driver.