Navigating Street Intersections: The Right of Way

Are you confident about navigating street intersections, especially when it comes to determining who has the right of way? The rules often seem unclear, but understanding them is crucial for road safety. This article will explore the principles of who should yield the right of way at various intersections.

The Rule According to The Highway Code

The Highway Code is a comprehensive guide on road safety, but it does not explicitly state who has the right of way in any circumstances. Instead, it provides advice on when you should give way to other road users. This guideline underscores the importance of always being cautious and taking the necessary actions to avoid incidents.

General Guidelines for Intersections

In general, the following rules apply:

Anyone not at a T-intersection does not have the right of way. Anyone on the main street has the right of way. Anyone who arrives first usually has the right of way. Anyone on the right has the right of way.

These rules are intuitive, but they can get confusing in complex situations.

Common Law and Unmarked Intersections

In situations where there is no official signage, such as in parking lots or at unmarked intersections, the common law prevails. In such cases, the vehicle to the right has the right of way, while turning vehicles must yield to through traffic. This rule applies even when vehicles arrive at the same time.

Interpreting Right of Way in Different States

The rules can vary slightly from one state to another. However, the general principle remains the same: drivers with stop or yield signs must yield, while drivers turning must yield to those going straight. States like New Jersey have additional specific rules to govern such situations.

At an unmarked 4-way intersection, the driver who arrives second must yield to the one who arrives first. If two drivers arrive at the same time, the driver on the left should yield to the one on the right, just like at a 4-way stop. This rule also applies to intersections where a driver is turning left but another is arriving straight but later.

Driving Safely and Defensively

Due to the high frequency of crashes and near misses observed on social media, it's essential to drive defensively. Here's what you can do:

Always use your turn signal to indicate your intentions. Assume other drivers are inexperienced and may not follow the rules. Assume many drivers are selfish or believe the rules don't apply to them. Install a dashcam to record incidents and support your claims in case of a collision.

Regular practice and defensive driving techniques can significantly reduce your risk on the road.

In conclusion, understanding the rules of the road and being prepared for various scenarios can help you navigate intersections safely and confidently. Whether it's a T-intersection or an unmarked parking lot, paying attention to who has the right of way can prevent accidents and ensure smooth traffic flow.