"I have the right-of-way!" This is something you’ve probably heard someone driving a pre-owned car yell at one point or another while you’re on the road. In case you don’t know what that means, right-of-way is the factor that helps drivers determine whether they should proceed ahead of other motorists or let them go first. It’s a very important albeit underappreciated rule of the road since it helps minimize accidents and bottle-necking.
Now there are different right-of-way rules you need to remember while behind the steering wheel. If you’re unfamiliar with any of them, then here’s a few you should start learning.
When a Car is Ahead of You
If another vehicle gets into an intersection before you do, it has the right-of-way. Let it proceed ahead of you.
When a Car is Beside You
If you enter an intersection at the same time as another vehicle crossing your way, the vehicle to your right has the right-of-way.
When You’re at an Intersection
When turning left in an intersection, signal your intent to turn and yield to approaching traffic until it is safe to complete the turn.
When Coming From Your Driveway
If you are entering a public street from a private driveway, stop and yield the right-of-way to the vehicles already on the road.
When There’s a Pedestrian
Always yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing in marked or unmarked crosswalks. It is also safe practice to yield to pedestrians who are not using crosswalks on the street.
When in a Roundabout
If you are about to enter a roundabout or circle or rotunda, yield the right-of-way to vehicles already in the roundabout.
When the Intersection is Backed Up
If you are about to cross an intersection where traffic on the same direction you are headed is backed up, you must wait until the traffic clears before proceeding.
When You’re a Pedestrian
Stop at any limit line or before a crosswalk. Yield to all approaching vehicles on the through street; proceed only when it is safe for you to cross. That is, cross only when approaching vehicles are slowing down and allow you to get across safely.
Remember These Right-of-Way Rules
These right-of-way rules may seem simple at first glance, but they can significantly help you prevent unexpected and unwanted mishaps on the road. So whether or not you’re driving a brand new car or a used one, you would do well to learn and remember these rules.