Who Has the Right-of-Way?
Even for experienced drivers, intersections are among the most hazardous locations and are the site of many collisions. It may sound simple, but the sooner you size-up an intersection and identify the potential hazards, the more likely you are to avoid a collision.
Here are four things you should do when coming to an intersection:
- Scan ahead. Scan the entire block for oncoming traffic or other potential problems.
- Check the traffic light. Is the light green or red? Even with a green light, you should anticipate the light changing as you approach.
- Take your foot off the accelerator and cover your brake. This allows you to smoothly stop should the light change.
- Delay acceleration. Count to three before moving forward through the intersection. Doing so allows you plenty of reaction time should there be an overly aggressive driver who runs through the light.
Let’s tackle the easy scenarios first.
Yield Signs
Drivers with a yield sign should slow as they approach the intersection, scanning for pedestrians and other traffic. The driver should stop and yield to all traffic until the intersection is clear. If the intersection is clear, they do not need to stop.
2-Way Stops
Drivers with a stop sign must yield to traffic without the stop until the intersection is clear.
Now comes the more difficult scenario that can make even the most seasoned driver a little nervous. The 4-way stop.
4-Way Stops
There are four main rules for mastering the 4-way stop.
- The first vehicle that arrives at a 4-Way Stop always has right of way, no matter where they are located and what direction they are traveling.
- When two or three vehicles arrive at a 4-Way Stop at the same time, and are located side-by-side, the vehicle furthest to the right has right of way.
- When two vehicles arrive at a 4-Way Stop at the same time, and they are located head-to-head and one of the vehicles intends to turn and the other intends to go straight, the vehicle going straight has right of way. Keep in mind that if both vehicles are going straight or turning in the same direction, they can both proceed at the same time as they will not cross each other’s path.
- When two vehicles arrive at a 4-Way stop at the same time, and they are located head-to-head and one of the vehicles intends to turn right and the other intends to turn left, the vehicle turning right has right of way.
When four vehicles arrive at a 4-Way Stop at the same time, none of the above rules apply. Technically, none of the vehicles would have right of way. It is recommended that you wait for the most aggressive driver to make their move and then proceed with caution rather than alternating with the other vehicles in the intersection.
Additional Tips to Keep in Mind
Even if you legally have the right of way, be ready to yield to others who are driving aggressively. Your goal is to make it home in one piece, no need to rush. Remember to continue scanning even at controlled intersections. The purpose of scanning is to identify any potential threats or issues that could impede traffic so that you can change course. Also, while at intersections, be certain to communicate your intentions and always be ready to come to a stop or to change your path.
Consider taking an online refresher driving course to stay current with law changes and best driving practices. Click here to check out our full list of Top Driver safe driving tips.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do every time I approach an intersection?
Four things, in this order. Scan the entire block ahead for oncoming traffic, pedestrians, and other problems. Check the traffic light, and even with a green light, anticipate that it could change. Take your foot off the accelerator and cover the brake so you can stop smoothly if needed. Then delay acceleration when the light goes green, count to three before moving forward. That short pause gives you reaction time if someone runs the red from the cross street, which is one of the most common causes of intersection collisions.
Who has the right of way at a yield sign?
Drivers approaching a yield sign should slow down, scan for pedestrians and cross traffic, and yield to anyone already in or approaching the intersection. If the intersection is clear, you don't have to come to a complete stop, just proceed at a reduced speed. The key word is yield: you give way to everyone who has a stronger claim to the intersection, including pedestrians in the crosswalk. Only after you've made sure it's clear do you continue through.
Who has the right of way at a two-way stop?
Drivers facing a stop sign must come to a complete stop and yield to all cross traffic that does not have a stop sign. The cross street, without stop signs, has the right of way. Wait until the intersection is fully clear of approaching vehicles before proceeding. Don't assume the other driver will slow down for you, they're not legally required to, and assuming they will is a leading cause of T-bone crashes.
What are the rules for a 4-way stop?
Four rules cover most situations. First, the vehicle that arrives first has the right of way, regardless of position or direction. Second, when two or three vehicles arrive at the same time and are side-by-side, the vehicle furthest to the right goes first. Third, when two vehicles arrive head-to-head at the same time and one is turning while the other is going straight, the straight-through vehicle has the right of way; if both are going the same direction or both turning the same way, they can proceed together. Fourth, when two vehicles arrive head-to-head and one is turning right while the other is turning left, the vehicle turning right goes first.
What if four cars arrive at a 4-way stop at exactly the same time?
Technically none of the four has the right of way under the standard rules. The practical recommendation is to wait for the most aggressive driver to make their move and then proceed with caution, rather than everyone inching forward in a confusing alternating pattern. Make eye contact when you can, communicate with a small wave or hand signal, and don't fight for the spot. Your goal is to clear the intersection safely, not to win it.
Does having the right of way mean I should always take it?
No. Right of way is a legal concept, not a force field. If another driver is acting aggressively, running a red, or clearly not yielding when they should, your job is to avoid the crash, not insist on your right. Be ready to yield to anyone driving badly. Keep scanning even at controlled intersections, signal your intentions clearly, and stay prepared to stop or change course. Getting home in one piece is worth more than being right at the intersection.
