You’re driving up a suburban street when the road narrows with cars parked on both sides, leaving just enough space for one vehicle to pass through at a time.
Up ahead, another driver is coming from the opposite direction. You both slow down, unsure who should move first. There’s no signage, no lane markings, and no obvious rule. So, who gives way?
It’s a familiar squeeze, and one that’s happening more often as housing intensifies and streets grow busier.
But according to NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA), the New Zealand Road Code or the Land Transport Act doesn’t offer a definitive answer.
“In the absence of signage on narrow roads, mutual courtesy and safety are expected,” a spokesperson said.
“Drivers are advised to slow down, assess the situation, and give way where necessary to avoid conflict.”
AA head of driver training Kirsty Vincent told 1News if cars were parked on your side of the road, you give way to any oncoming traffic as you would need to cross the centre line to get through.
“However, if there are cars parked on both sides and two cars are heading towards each other, there is no specific rule in the Road Code for who must give way.”
Vincent said in this situation, drivers should consider their surroundings and “make the safest decision you can”.
“There might be more room for you to pull over and let the other come through, or vice versa.”
She recommended scanning 12 seconds ahead to anticipate a potential conflict.
“It helps you predict what is happening ahead and allows time to take the necessary action. If you are giving way, remember to always indicate and head check before you move back into the road.”
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There were a few exceptions to this unwritten rule, she added.
On hills, vehicles travelling uphill had the right of way – a throwback to the days when manual cars struggled with hill starts.
On rural or unsealed roads, motorists should always be cautious and drive to the conditions.
“If it’s a winding road and visibility is poor, slow down and stick as far to the left as you can.”
One-lane bridges are usually signposted to show who had the right of way. But if not, Vincent said visibility should guide the decision.
“If your visibility of the road is better than that of the oncoming car, let them through first.”
She said, overall, it was a matter of courtesy and common sense.
“We all share the road, and we all want to get to our destinations without incident. So be polite, and if someone has let you through, give them a thank you wave.”
