Right of Way Rules
- 1/29At intersections controlled by signs or signals
Traffic signs and signals regulate movement. Following them ensures safe, orderly driving and prevents crashes or confusion at intersections.
If you are driving from a two-lane road onto a multi-lane road
Drivers on smaller or lower-capacity roads must yield to vehicles on multi-lane or divided highways to avoid collisions during merging or crossing.
If you are entering a paved road from an unpaved road
Paved roads have priority. Drivers from unpaved roads must yield to safely enter or cross the more heavily used paved surface.
If you are approaching an uncontrolled intersection
In the absence of signals or signs, vehicles already in the intersection or coming from the right have the right-of-way.
If you are turning left at an intersection
Vehicles going straight have the right-of-way over left-turning traffic. This prevents crashes and supports smooth traffic flow.
If you are exiting a private driveway
You must stop before crossing the sidewalk and yield to traffic on the public road. Entering without yielding is dangerous and illegal.
If you are driving on a frontage road near a highway
Highway traffic has priority. Yielding on frontage roads prevents collisions during merging or lane changes.
At the point of merging into the same lane from adjacent lanes
In merging scenarios, the vehicle entering from the right must yield to the vehicle on the left to maintain safe lane usage.
If you approach a railroad crossing with active warning devices
Flashing lights, lowered gates, or signals from a flagger mean a train is coming. You must stop to avoid collisions.
If a train is approaching from about 1,500 feet with warning signals
An audible train signal within 1,500 feet is an immediate hazard. Stopping avoids dangerous crossings.
To safely cross railroad tracks after a train
Wait for gates to rise and lights to stop flashing. Check for trains in both directions before crossing.
At railroad crossings marked only with a crossbuck or reduced speed sign
Without active signals, you must look and listen carefully. Stop if you see or hear a train.
If red lights are flashing at a railroad crossing
You must remain stopped until the lights stop flashing and it is safe to cross. Never try to beat the train.
When crossing gates at a railroad are down
Lowered gates indicate a train is approaching. It is illegal and unsafe to drive around them.
If a train has just passed through the crossing
Double tracks may have a second train coming. Never assume it is clear until you check both directions.
If your car stalls on the tracks with a train approaching
This protects you from debris if your vehicle is struck. Running toward the train, but away from the tracks, maximizes safety.
Upon arriving at a railroad crossing
Train horns can be hard to hear with windows up or music on. Listening helps detect approaching trains early.
If there is an emergency on the tracks
The sign provides a 24/7 contact and location code for reporting incidents like a stuck vehicle or malfunctioning signals.
Upon calling the ENS number in an emergency
This ensures the railroad company knows where the issue is and what kind of response is needed.
If an emergency vehicle with flashing red lights and a siren is approaching
This clears the path for the emergency vehicle to pass safely and quickly. Its required by law.
If you are following a fire truck or ambulance with flashing lights
Following too closely can interfere with emergency response and is prohibited to keep routes clear.
If a fire truck is responding to an emergency on your street and you need to park
Emergency responders need access. Parking in their path delays aid and endangers lives.
If you encounter an ambulance with sirens on road
Blocking access can delay life-saving treatment. Stay clear and give responders room to work.
If a school bus has flashing red lights
Unless specific exceptions apply (e.g. divided highways), stop until lights stop or the driver signals.
If a school bus is stopped off-road in a no-pedestrian zone
If the bus is not blocking traffic and children are not crossing the road, stopping may not be required.
If stopped for a school bus with flashing red lights
Do not move until children are safely off the road and the bus driver indicates it is safe to go.
If you illegally pass a school bus with flashing red lights
Penalties include fines, points, and possible license suspension to protect child safety.
At uncontrolled intersections or if the WALK signal is active
Pedestrian right-of-way applies even when there are no traffic lights, especially in crosswalks.
If a pedestrian starts crossing on a green light
Pedestrians have the right to complete their crossing safely, even if the signal changes mid-cross.