Make the next move predictable
Right of way is about resolving conflicts safely. A rule may say who should yield; it never makes a collision acceptable.
Find the potential conflict
Before entering a junction, look for vehicles approaching from other directions, pedestrians crossing, and cyclists alongside you. Check the entire space your vehicle will use, including the exit.
Pause before a turn
When turning across a travel path, make sure the gap is large enough to finish without forcing someone else to brake sharply. A driver flashing headlights or waving is not a substitute for checking the other lanes yourself.
Give yourself an exit
Do not move into an intersection just because your signal changes if traffic leaves no room beyond it. Wait until you can clear the crossing. When another road user acts unexpectedly, slow down and create space instead of trying to enforce priority.
Observe, identify conflicts, then move only when your path is clear. Use your state handbook for the exact priority rules.
Use official road-safety resources and your state’s full handbook to check legal details and exceptions.
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