Right-of-Way and Intersection Rules
Core right-of-way principles
Right-of-way rules decide who goes first when paths cross. At an uncontrolled intersection, the vehicle already in the intersection has priority, and a driver approaching from the right generally has the right-of-way in Belize's right-hand-drive-on-the-right system. At a T-junction, traffic on the through road has priority over traffic joining from the stem. At roundabouts, vehicles already circulating have priority, and you signal left to show you are staying in, right to exit.
Turning and junctions
When turning left across oncoming traffic, you must yield to vehicles coming towards you. When turning right, yield to pedestrians and to traffic already on the road you are entering. Never assume a signal gives you priority; a turn signal is a request, not a right.
Traps
- Exam questions often describe a driver who has signalled; signalling does not create right-of-way.
- At a four-way stop, the first vehicle to stop goes first; if two stop together, the one on the right goes first.
- Pedestrians at a marked crossing have priority; do not edge forward to hurry them.
Worked example
You arrive at a four-way stop at the same moment as a car on your left. You stopped together. The car on your left is not on your right, so you may proceed first, but only after confirming it is actually stopping.