The Uncommon Laws of Right of Way and Yielding
The right of way and yielding is a set of rules that drivers must follow to ensure their safety and the safety of others. It entails which type of vehicle has the right of way on a given roadway, which vehicles should yield, and who should yield to another vehicle. This article will explain right-of-way and yielding laws in detail and what signs you should look out for on the road.
1. The Driver Who Stopped First
The driver who stopped first at a four-way intersection has the right-of-way and must yield to vehicles approaching from every direction.
In cities like Houston, there are also a few situations where drivers may stop first, such as when their vehicle is disabled or their traffic signal lights are all off. The driver who stops first has the right to go first, and the others must wait until it is their turn to continue.
It is essential to contact a Houston personal injury firm if you have been involved in an accident with a driver who stopped first and did not yield to you to get compensation for damages.
2. Driver to Your Right
This is yet another instance where the driver whose vehicle comes from a specific direction has the right of way. In this case, drivers must be especially mindful of letting other drivers pass on roads with heavy traffic or congested conditions.
An exception is when it is incredibly congested, in which case the law states that drivers must yield to each other and must not block another car’s path. When two or more vehicles are coming toward one another on the road, it is usually the driver to your right who has the right of way. So if you’re in this position, slow down and let cars pass you as they approach your lane.
3. Driver Turning Left or Right
This is a driving rule that is applicable at all four-way stop intersections. The driver turning right or left must yield to any other vehicle approaching from the same direction unless they are crossing the street and turning into a driveway.
If you turn left, you have priority to turn on your turn signal or take over the lane. In this case, if another vehicle wishes to pass you on your way, it must yield to you until it’s safe for you to proceed without interference. When turning right, drivers must use their turn signals as well as their hazards to warn other cars about their actions about to occur in case of an accident.
4. Emergency Vehicles
Special vehicles belonging to Police officers, paramedics, and other emergency vehicles have the right of way in every situation. It is important to stop as soon as you see flashing lights on your vehicle and pull over to the side. Obey the police if they instruct you to move your vehicle for safety reasons.
5. Railway Crossing
This is another example in which the driver who came to a railroad crossing first must yield to any other cars approaching them. Maintain a safe distance from the train and make sure it is clear of traffic before you turn into the crossing.
If you are driving behind a train, you may cross over whenever you want. Do not drive in front of or intersect with the train if possible, as it would cause an accident. Ensure your car is off or your hazard lights are on for extra visibility when coming up to a railroad crossing.
6. Pedestrians
When crossing the street, always look out for other pedestrians and note whether they have a green light. Take extra caution at intersections because there is a more likely chance of collisions with pedestrians.
If you are driving behind a pedestrian walking on the street, you must exercise caution and maintain a safe distance between you and the pedestrian before proceeding. Keep your speed under control and stop if the pedestrian signals you.
In conclusion, drivers must always be aware of their surroundings and know the rules of the roads. The rules are crucial in the occurrence of any accidents and make it much easier for drivers to take care of it if they have a crash.
