Navigating Virginia’s roads safely requires a clear understanding of the state’s right-of-way laws. These rules dictate who must yield in various driving situations, ensuring smooth traffic flow and reducing accidents. Familiarizing yourself with these regulations is crucial for both new and experienced drivers.
Intersections Controlled by Stop Signs
At intersections with stop signs, drivers must:
Single Stop Sign: Come to a complete stop at the marked stop line or before the crosswalk. Yield to any vehicles approaching from either direction before proceeding.
Four-Way Stops: The first vehicle to arrive has the Virginia right-of-way. If multiple vehicles arrive simultaneously, the driver on the left should yield to the driver on the right.
Intersections with Yield Signs
When approaching a yield sign, drivers are required to:
Slow down to a reasonable speed for the current conditions.
Yield to any vehicles approaching or already in the intersection. If necessary for safety, come to a complete stop at the marked stop line or before the crosswalk.
Uncontrolled Intersections
At intersections without stop or yield signs:
Virginia Drivers should slow down and be prepared to stop.
The vehicle that arrives first has the right-of-way.
If two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right.
“T” Intersections
In “T” intersections where one road ends into another:
The driver on the terminating road must yield to vehicles on the through road.
Turning Left
When making a left turn:
Drivers must yield to oncoming traffic that is close enough to pose a hazard.
At intersections with dedicated left-turn signals, vehicles turning left have the right-of-way over other traffic.
Entering a Public Road from a Private Road
Virginia Drivers entering a public highway or sidewalk from a private road, driveway, alley, or building must:
Stop immediately before entering.
Yield to vehicles approaching on the public highway and to pedestrians on the sidewalk.
Merging onto Highways
When merging onto a highway:
Drivers must yield to traffic already on the highway.
Ensure there is a safe gap before merging.
Emergency Vehicles
Upon the approach of an emergency vehicle using audible and visual signals:
Drivers must pull over to the nearest edge of the roadway, clear of intersections, and stop until the emergency vehicle has passed.
Funeral Processions
In Virginia:
Funeral processions with a police or sheriff’s escort have the right-of-way in any highway they pass through.
Other drivers must not join, pass through, or interfere with the procession.
Pedestrians and Bicyclists
Drivers must:
Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and at intersections.
Exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians and bicyclists.
Penalties for Failing to Yield
Violating right-of-way laws can result in:
Fines: Monetary penalties vary based on the specific violation.
Points on Driving Record: Accumulating points can lead to increased insurance rates and potential license suspension.
Increased Liability: In the event of an accident, the driver failing to yield may be held responsible for damages.
Understanding and adhering to Virginia’s right-of-way laws is essential for safe driving. By following these guidelines, drivers can help prevent accidents and ensure a smoother traffic flow.
