Understanding Right-of-Way: The Rules No One Talks About (But You’ll Be Tested On)

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 Understanding Right-of-Way: The Rules No One Talks About (But You’ll Be Tested On)

When you're learning how to drive, one of the most confusing topics is right-of-way. Everyone talks about how important it is, but no one really explains it clearly. Until now.

Right-of-way rules are on your permit test. They’re also something your road test examiner is definitely watching. But even more important, knowing these rules can help you avoid accidents and feel more confident on the road.

Let’s break it all down in a way that actually makes sense.

What Does “Right-of-Way” Mean?

Right-of-way is the rule that decides who goes first. That’s it. Simple, right?

But just because a rule says you get to go first, doesn’t mean other drivers will follow it. You still have to pay attention, make good decisions, and stay safe.

Bottom line: If you’re ever unsure, yield. It’s better to be cautious than to cause a crash.

The Most Important Rule of All

Even if you’re in the right, never insist on going if it puts you in danger.

Let the other driver go if they are being aggressive or confused. Staying safe is more important than proving a point.

How to Handle a Four-Way Stop

Four-way stops are all about order and awareness. Here's how to handle them:

The Basics

  • First car to stop is the first to go.

  • If two cars stop at the same time, the car on the right goes first.

  • If you're across from another car and both of you are going straight, you can go at the same time.

  • If you're across from each other and one of you is turning left, the left-turning car waits.

Situations You’ll See

Two cars pull up side-by-side at the same time
The one on the left waits. The car on the right goes first.

Three cars arrive quickly
Watch the flow. If you’re not sure who’s next, wait a second to see who moves first. A small pause can keep everyone safe.

Someone doesn’t stop fully
A rolling stop is not a full stop. Let them go and give yourself space.

Bonus Tip
Make eye contact when you can. It helps you read other drivers and avoid miscommunication.

Rotaries vs Roundabouts: What’s the Difference?

In Massachusetts, we have both.

  • Rotaries are big and usually found on faster roads.

  • Roundabouts are smaller and built to slow things down.

Either way, the rules are the same.

How to Handle a Rotary or Roundabout

  1. Slow down as you approach

  2. Look to your left

  3. Yield to cars already in the circle

  4. Pick your lane before entering

    • Right lane: Take the first exit

    • Left lane: Go further around

  5. Signal when you exit

  6. Don’t stop once you’re inside unless traffic is backed up

Need more help with tricky maneuvers like this?
Check out Parallel Parking Made Simple for another detailed breakdown that actually makes sense.

Pedestrians: Always Yield in Crosswalks

If a pedestrian is in or about to enter a crosswalk, you must stop. That’s the law.

Even if the crosswalk isn’t clearly marked, treat it like one if it’s at an intersection.

Yes, even if they’re jaywalking, your job is to avoid hitting them.

Emergency Vehicles: What to Do When You Hear Sirens

  1. Check your mirrors and listen

  2. Pull over to the right and stop if it’s safe

  3. Stay put until they pass

  4. Don’t block an intersection

  5. At a rotary, clear the circle if you’re in it. If not, wait before entering

Every second counts for emergency vehicles, so react quickly and stay calm.

School Buses: The Rules Are Serious

Red lights flashing on a school bus? Stop, no matter which way you’re coming from.

The only exception is if you’re on a divided highway with a median and the bus is on the other side.

This is one of the easiest ways to lose your license or fail your test. Never take the chance.

Uncontrolled Intersections: What If There’s No Sign or Light?

These are more common in neighborhoods than on main roads.

  • Yield to the car on your right

  • Slow down and scan for pedestrians

  • Don’t assume everyone else knows the rule

Approach with caution. Just because there's no stop sign doesn’t mean you don’t have to slow down.


What Examiners Are Looking For

Examiners want to see that you:

  • Know when to go and when to wait

  • Yield when required, without being overly timid

  • Use eye movement and mirror checks

  • Signal clearly

  • Drive with confidence and awareness

You don’t need to be perfect. But you do need to be predictable, cautious, and aware.

How to Practice Right-of-Way

  • Narrate while riding with someone: Say out loud what you would do at each intersection.

  • Use street view on Google Maps to explore rotaries and busy intersections.

  • Draw practice diagrams and quiz yourself.

  • Practice eye contact and signaling even in low-pressure situations like parking lots.

These little habits will build your confidence fast.

Common Right-of-Way Mistakes

  • Going out of turn at a 4-way stop

  • Failing to yield in a rotary

  • Not stopping for a pedestrian

  • Hesitating too long and confusing others

  • Forgetting to signal before exiting a circle

  • Not yielding to emergency vehicles or school buses

Each of these mistakes is avoidable with practice and awareness.

Final Thought: Right Doesn’t Always Mean Safe

You might have the right-of-way. But if the other driver doesn’t know that or isn’t paying attention, let them go. Being “right” doesn’t matter if you’re in a crash.

Driving is about safety, not winning.

Your Turn

What confused or stressed you out the most when you first started driving?
Was it a rotary, a 4-way stop, or something else? Let us know in the comments so we can help other student drivers learn from real experiences.

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