Knowing who has the right of way at an intersection in Texas is critical for preventing accidents and ensuring smooth traffic flow. Right-of-way rules govern how vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists navigate intersections, whether controlled by signs or signals or left uncontrolled. Understanding these regulations helps drivers make informed decisions, reducing the risk of collisions.
Houston car accident attorney Greg Baumgartner breaks down the essential right-of-way rules, special scenarios, and practical tips to enhance road safety and confidence while driving.
Fundamental Right-of-Way Rules at Intersections
Intersections present complex traffic situations, making it vital to understand the right-of-way laws in Texas. These rules dictate which vehicle proceeds first, minimizing conflicts and maintaining order on the road.
General Right-of-Way Principles
- First Arrival Rule – The first vehicle to reach an intersection has the right of way. If multiple vehicles arrive simultaneously, additional rules apply.
- Yield to the Right – When two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right.
- Emergency Vehicles – Always yield to emergency vehicles with flashing lights and sirens. Move to the right and stop until the emergency vehicle has passed.
- Pedestrian Right of Way – Pedestrians in marked or crosswalks may have the right of way. Vehicles must stop and allow them to cross safely.
Understanding these core principles ensures a safer and more predictable driving experience.
Controlled Intersections: Traffic Signals and Stop Signs
Controlled intersections use traffic signals, stop signs, or yield signs to regulate traffic flow. Each type of control has specific rules that drivers must follow.
Traffic Light Intersections
- Green Light – Proceed if the intersection is clear, yielding to vehicles still in the intersection and pedestrians crossing.
- Yellow Light – Prepare to stop unless it is unsafe to do so. Drivers should not accelerate to beat a yellow light.
- Red Light – Come to a complete stop. Right turns on red are allowed in most areas but require a complete stop before proceeding.
- Flashing Red Light – Stop completely and proceed only when the intersection is clear.
- Flashing Yellow Light – Exercise caution and proceed carefully through the intersection.
Stop Signs and Yield Signs
- Four-Way Stops – The first vehicle to arrive has the right of way. If two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the vehicle on the right proceeds first.
- Two-Way Stops – Drivers at the stop sign must yield to cross traffic with no stop sign.
- Yield Signs – Drivers must slow down, check for traffic, and yield before proceeding.
Controlled intersections rely on drivers obeying signals and signs to prevent accidents and ensure steady traffic movement.
Uncontrolled Intersections: Navigating Without Signals
Uncontrolled intersections lacking traffic lights or stop signs make driver awareness and caution essential.
Basic Right-of-Way at Uncontrolled Intersections
Texas Transportation Code Section 545.151 sets forth the rules of the road.
- Vehicles on the Right Have Priority – If two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right.
- Slow Down and Be Prepared to Stop – Since there are no signs indicating traffic flow, drivers must approach cautiously and be ready to yield.
- Yield to Pedestrians and Cyclists – In most circumstances, pedestrians crossing an uncontrolled intersection have the right of way.
Uncontrolled intersections require heightened attention to avoid collisions.
T-Intersections: Understanding the Right of Way
T-intersections occur when one road ends at another without crossing it. Vehicles on the terminating road must always yield to traffic on the through road.
Key T-Intersection Rules
- Through Road has the right of way – Drivers on the terminating road must wait until traffic on the through road is clear before proceeding.
- Left Turns Must Yield – If turning left onto the through road, wait for a safe gap in both directions.
- Pedestrian Priority – Pedestrians crossing the terminating road have the right of way at “walk” traffic control devices.
Understanding T-intersection rules helps avoid unnecessary delays and accidents.
Special Scenarios: Navigating Unique Intersection Situations
Certain intersection types have specific right-of-way rules that differ from standard intersections.
Roundabouts
Roundabouts require drivers to yield to traffic already circulating in the roundabout. Key rules include:
- Yield to Traffic in the Roundabout – Do not enter until there is a safe gap.
- Pedestrian Right of Way – Pedestrians crossing at designated crosswalks have priority.
- Use Turn Signals When Exiting – Indicate your intent to leave the roundabout to prevent confusion.
Pedestrian Crosswalks
- Marked Crosswalks – Vehicles must stop for pedestrians in designated crosswalks.
- Unmarked Crosswalks – Pedestrians still generally have the right of way at intersections, even without painted lines.
- Flashing Crosswalk Signals – Slow down and prepare to stop when crosswalk signals are activated.
Mountain Roads
Mountain roads pose additional challenges, especially on narrow and steep inclines. Right-of-way rules include:
- Uphill Traffic Has Priority – Vehicles traveling uphill have the right of way over those going downhill.
- Use Turnouts to Allow Passing – If you are driving slowly, use the designated turnouts to let faster-moving vehicles pass.
- Yield to Larger Vehicles – Trucks and buses often require more space and have difficulty stopping quickly.
Practical Tips for Yielding the Right of Way at Intersections in Texas
Right-of-way rules help prevent accidents, but defensive driving is equally important in maintaining road safety. Here are some key tips to improve intersection safety.
Making Left Turns
- Yield to Oncoming Traffic – Left-turning vehicles must always wait for a clear gap in the traffic before proceeding.
- Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists – Pedestrians crossing the street have priority over turning vehicles.
- Use Your Turn Signal Early – Signaling at least 100 feet before turning improves safety for all road users.
Merging into Traffic
- Yield to Vehicles Already in the Lane – Never force your way into traffic. Wait for an appropriate gap.
- Accelerate to Match Speed – Adjust speed to fit seamlessly into the traffic flow when merging onto highways.
- Check Blind Spots – Always look over your shoulder before changing lanes or merging.
Navigating Parking Lots
- Main Lanes Have Priority – Vehicles in the main driving lanes have the right of way over those exiting parking spots.
- Yield to Pedestrians – Pedestrians walking in designated paths or near entrances have the right of way.
- Follow Directional Signs – Many parking lots have specific entry and exit routes that must be followed.
Common Right of Way Mistakes
Misunderstanding right-of-way rules can lead to dangerous situations. Awareness of common mistakes improves safety.
Assuming Other Drivers Will Yield
- Never assume the Other Driver Knows the Rules – Always be prepared to stop, even if you have the right of way.
- Make Eye Contact at Intersections – Ensure the other driver acknowledges your presence before proceeding.
Ignoring Traffic Signs in Parking Lots
- Yield at Exit Points – Drivers leaving a parking lot must yield to vehicles already on the road.
- Stop for Pedestrian Crosswalks – Parking lot crosswalks function like those on main roads.
Failing to Yield When Required
- Left Turns Must Wait for a Clear Path – Turning left without checking for oncoming traffic is a leading cause of accidents.
- Emergency Vehicles Always Take Priority – Do not attempt to outrun or block emergency responders.
Contact the Car Accident Lawyers at Baumgartner Law Firm for Help with an Injury Accident
Contact the Houston personal injury law firm of Baumgartner Law Firm at (281) 587-1111.
Baumgartner Law Firm
6711 Cypress Creek Pkwy
Houston, TX, 77069
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