What are Right of Way Rules at Intersections?
Right of way rules (kavşakta geçiş hakkı) determine which driver has priority to cross or proceed first at an intersection. These rules use traffic lights, signs and yield protocols to prevent collisions and keep traffic flowing safely.
Right of way rules establish priority at intersections: green light means go, red light means stop, yield signs mean give way, and equal-status intersections follow right-hand priority (vehicle on right has priority).
- 1↓Step 1: Check SignalTraffic light controls priority. Green = proceed, Red = stop, Yellow = prepare to stop.
- 2↓Step 2: If No Signal, Yield SignYield sign means give way. Stop and let crossing traffic pass first.
- 3↓Step 3: Uncontrolled IntersectionIf no signal or sign, use right-hand rule: vehicle on your right has priority.
- 4Step 4: Proceed SafelyOnly proceed when it is safe and when you have right of way.
Step-by-step worked examples
You approach a traffic light showing red and a car to your left approaches on green. What is your right of way status?
A red light means STOP — you do not have right of way. The car on green has the right of way and must cross first. You must yield and let that car pass before proceeding.
Two vehicles arrive at an uncontrolled intersection at the same time. One is on your right, one on your left. Who has priority?
At an uncontrolled intersection, use the right-hand rule. The vehicle on your RIGHT has priority. You must yield to that vehicle and let it pass first.
You see a yield sign at an intersection. What must you do?
A yield sign means you do NOT have automatic right of way. You must slow down and check for other traffic. Only proceed when it is safe and other traffic has passed.
Flashcards
Quick quiz
Q1.At an intersection with a traffic light, who has the right of way?
Q2.You see a yield sign. This means:
Q3.At an uncontrolled 4-way intersection, if all vehicles arrive at the same time:
Q4.A yellow traffic light means:
The full card deck, worked steps and AI-tutor support for “What are Right of Way Rules at Intersections?” are in Notek — study by hand before your exam.
Common mistakes
Thinking you always have right of way if you are a large vehicle. — Correct: Right of way is determined by traffic lights, signs and location — vehicle size does not matter.
Assuming an uncontrolled intersection means everyone can go. — Correct: Use the right-hand rule — vehicle on your right has priority.
Ignoring yield signs. — Correct: Yield signs are legally binding — you must slow and give way.
Rushing through a yellow light to beat the red. — Correct: Yellow means prepare to stop — rushing increases collision risk.
FAQ
What are right of way rules at intersections?
Right of way rules determine which driver has priority to proceed first. They use traffic lights, signs and yield protocols to prevent collisions.
What does green light mean for right of way?
A green light means you have the right of way — proceed when safe. Other traffic must stop or yield to you.
What is the right-hand rule at intersections?
At uncontrolled intersections, the vehicle on your right has priority — you must yield to it.
Can I turn left on a green light in front of oncoming traffic?
No — turning left must yield to oncoming traffic even if your light is green. Proceed only when it is safe.