Right-of-Way Rules and Intersections
Who Goes First
Right-of-way is never "taken" - it is yielded. The core rules are simple but frequently tested. At an uncontrolled intersection, the first vehicle to arrive proceeds first; if two arrive at the same time, the vehicle on the right goes first. A vehicle turning left must yield to oncoming traffic going straight or turning right. When entering a roadway from a driveway, alley, or private road, you yield to all traffic already on the road. When merging, the vehicle already in the through lane has the right-of-way.
Intersection types change the rules. At a four-way stop, proceed in order of arrival. At a roundabout, yield to traffic already circulating - never stop inside the circle. At a T-intersection, traffic on the through road generally has priority. At a controlled intersection, obey the signal or sign over the general rules.
Pedestrians always get priority in marked crosswalks and at unmarked crosswalks at intersections. Even if you have a green light, a pedestrian legally in the crosswalk has the right-of-way.
Traps to Watch
Examiners test the left-turn trap constantly: a driver turning left on a green light must still yield to oncoming traffic unless a protected arrow is shown. Another trap is the "first to arrive" rule - simultaneous arrival defaults to the right-hand vehicle, not the larger one, not the one going straight. Watch for emergency vehicles: pull to the right and stop, and never follow closely behind one responding to a call. School buses with flashing red lights require you to stop in both directions unless separated by a physical median.
Rule of Thumb
When unsure, yield. A driver who yields when they technically had the right-of-way loses nothing; a driver who assumes the right-of-way risks a collision.