The Four-Way Stop With a Queue
You approach a four-way intersection controlled by stop signs on all approaches. It is 8:15 am and traffic is steady. As you arrive and stop, a car is already stopped at the intersection on your right, indicating to turn right. A cyclist is riding in the bike lane on your left, heading straight through. A pedestrian is waiting at the corner on your right, and a delivery van is close behind you. You want to turn right. The intersection has no lights and no roundabout.
1. Who goes first, and how do you sequence the movements?
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At a four-way stop, every vehicle must stop, and the general rule is that the first to stop is the first to proceed. If two arrive at about the same time, you give way to the vehicle on your right. Here the car on your right was already stopped, so it has priority over you. It is turning right, so it will cross in front of you or move away to your right.
The cyclist travelling straight on your left is a road user you must not cut across. Even if you technically stopped first, turning right across a bike lane is risky, so wait until the cyclist has cleared the intersection. The pedestrian on your right should also be allowed to cross if they are stepping out. Sequence: let the car on your right complete its turn, let the cyclist pass, check for the pedestrian, then proceed when clear.
2. The van behind is close. How should that affect your decision to proceed?
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A close following vehicle creates pressure to move, but you must not enter the intersection until it is safe. If you proceed just because the van is tailgating, you risk a collision with the cyclist or the car on your right, and a rear-end crash is generally less severe than a side or turning crash. Hold your position, keep your foot on the brake so your brake lights are visible, and move only when the way is clear. If the van is aggressively close, a slightly slower, smoother departure gives you more control and signals your intentions. Do not wave the van past or make sudden movements.