We all know that having a skill on operating a motor vehicle does not define that you are very skillful when it comes to obeying the laws of the roads. It is about understanding and obeying the rules that will keep anyone on the road safe. One of the important things that is often misunderstood are just some rules on yielding the right-of-way. Understanding the concept of what does yielding the right-of-way means will not just be for your safety, but also to protect others life without damaging it. This study by Sherrod & Bernard, P.C.
First thing first, what does right-of-way mean? The right-of-way is a legal concept that acknowledges who has the right to proceed first in various traffic situations, for example in intersections, roundabouts, crosswalks and during merging into traffic. These simple road rules are not just about courtesy, this is also about the correctness of driving habits that the person can make. Yielding is about giving way to another driver, or even pedestrian going ahead of you before you proceed. During yielding, you must reduce your speed and slow down or even stop for the other party to pass through safety. When yielding, it is not a sign of weakness or indecision, it is a responsible action that shows respect for the traffic rules, and as well as the safety of others. Not yielding the right-of-way is most likely the primary cause of road accidents and it may result in such as tickets, fine, and the liability for any damages or injuries caused.
What are the common areas where you must yield?
- In an uncontrolled intersection – when two motor vehicles arrive in the intersection without traffic signals or any signs, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right.
- At Stop signs – whenever two vehicles arrive at the same time on stop signs, the motor vehicle on the right has the right-of-way. Another thing is that if you arrive first, you can proceed first – with caution.
- When turning left – turning left on the intersection, you must give way to the oncoming traffic that is going straight or turning right.
- Merging onto highways – Most drivers entering a highway must give way to the vehicles already traveling on the highway.
- Pedestrian Crosswalks – always give way on the pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks.
- Emergency vehicles – If there is an emergency vehicle, all drivers must give way over to the side of the road and stop.
Yielding matters because it serves as a critical role on the road safety. Particularly it helps on preventing accidents such as misunderstandings who has the right-of-way may lead to dangerous collisions. It also reduces traffic congestion because it enables to move the traffic smoothly and efficiently. It promoted courtesy among fellow drivers and promoted safer driving environment. To yield safely, always be caution and alert when approaching the intersection and merging lanes, slow down and look around – because we may not know that there could be a sign that says yield, make eye contact with other drivers or pedestrians to prevent misunderstanding, and to never assume others drivers will give way to you, you must always think of defensive driving as a key.
Therefore I conclude that understanding and practicing properly the fundamentals of yielding and right-of-way makes you a responsible driver. This is not just about you obeying rules and regulations of the road, it’s about protecting yourself, your loved ones with you and everyone else sharing the road. This could contribute to a safer, and more orderly driving environment.
