Right-of-Way Basics
Right-of-way rules decide who moves first at intersections and around emergency vehicles. Nobody has automatic right-of-way — it is given, not taken, to prevent crashes.
Intersections
- First to arrive = first to go.
- Same time: vehicle on the right has right-of-way.
- At a 4-way stop, if unsure, yield to the right.
Turning Left
- Yield to all oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
- Complete turn only when safe and clear.
Emergency Vehicles
- Pull to the right and stop when sirens/lights are active.
- Do not block intersections.
Roundabouts
Roundabouts keep traffic moving without signals. Yield to vehicles already inside the circle, enter when there is a safe gap, and signal your exit. Never stop inside the roundabout unless traffic forces it.
Pedestrians
Pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks almost always have the right-of-way. Stop well behind the crosswalk line, and never pass a car that has stopped for a pedestrian. In school zones, slow to the posted limit and watch for children.
School Buses
When a school bus stops with red lights flashing and stop arm extended, all directions must stop (except on divided highways where you are on the opposite side). Passing a stopped school bus is one of the most heavily fined violations.
Parking Lots
Lots are private property but still follow right-of-way rules. Pedestrians always win, and vehicles exiting a space yield to those driving the aisle. Drive slowly and avoid cutting across rows.
Common Mistakes
- Assuming you have right-of-way instead of yielding to avoid a crash
- Failing to yield when turning left across traffic
- Blocking an intersection during heavy traffic ("blocking the box")
- Not stopping fully for school buses
Merging and Lane Changes
When merging onto a highway, match the speed of traffic and find a gap without forcing others to brake. On a zipper merge (one lane closing), alternate one car from each line. When changing lanes, signal early, check mirrors and blind spots, and move only when the space is clearly safe.
Blind Spots and Large Vehicles
Trucks and buses have large blind spots on all four sides. If you cannot see the driver's face in their mirror, they cannot see you. Avoid lingering beside or directly behind large vehicles, and never cut in front of a truck without leaving room to brake.
When Two Drivers Hesitate
If both drivers wave each other through, confusion grows. The clearer rule wins: the driver with the legal obligation to yield does so, and the other proceeds. Never assume the other driver will yield just because you flashed your lights — make eye contact or wait for a clear, unmistakable move.