Ontario G1 driving glossary
Plain meanings and short examples for 16 driving terms. Use the links to jump to a term, then read its official handbook source.
An independent study aid. Definitions explain vocabulary; the linked handbook gives the complete rules and exceptions.
Blind spot
An area your mirrors do not show. Before changing lanes, look over your shoulder as well as checking the mirrors.
Official source — Blind spotCrosswalk
A place where pedestrians cross the road. At an intersection it may be unmarked; look for people crossing before turning.
Official source — CrosswalkPedestrian crossover
A crossing identified by special signs and markings. Stop for pedestrians and wait until they have cleared the entire roadway.
Official source — Pedestrian crossoverFollowing distance
The space between you and the vehicle ahead. Leave more space when rain, snow or poor visibility makes stopping harder.
Official source — Following distanceIntersection
A place where roads meet or cross. Signs, signals and right-of-way rules determine when you may proceed.
Official source — IntersectionLane
A strip of road for one line of vehicles. For example, a right-turn lane directs its traffic into a right turn.
Official source — LaneMedian
A strip or barrier separating opposing traffic. A painted centre line alone is not a physical median.
Official source — MedianMerge
Join a stream of traffic. When entering a freeway, adjust your speed to find a safe gap and check your blind spot.
Official source — MergeNo parking
You may stop briefly to load or unload passengers or goods. Do not leave the vehicle parked; obey any additional restrictions.
Official source — No parkingNo standing
You may stop only to pick up or drop off passengers. Loading goods is not the same as picking up a passenger.
Official source — No standingNo stopping
Do not stop even briefly, except when traffic conditions or safety require it. This restriction does not allow passenger pick-up.
Official source — No stoppingPassing
Moving past a vehicle travelling in the same direction. Check that passing is permitted and the road ahead is clear.
Official source — PassingPavement
The road surface used by vehicles. Pavement markings are lines or symbols on that surface; here, pavement does not mean sidewalk.
Official source — PavementRight of way
Priority to proceed in a particular situation. Be ready to yield to avoid a collision; do not assume another driver will stop.
Official source — Right of wayShoulder
The strip beside the travelled lane at the road's edge, paved or unpaved. It is different from a traffic lane or sidewalk.
Official source — ShoulderYield
Let other traffic or pedestrians go first. Slow down and stop when necessary before entering their path.
Official source — Yield