Chapter 5: Road Rules

Controlled Intersections

These are intersections where traffic flow is regulated by traffic signals or road signs. They are typically found in areas with high traffic and are characterized by the presence of traffic signals or stop signs.

Right of Way at Controlled Intersections:

• Stop Signs: When you encounter a STOP sign, it’s mandatory to make a full stop at the stop line and give way to all vehicles and pedestrians in or heading towards the intersection. Here are some guidelines to follow when you come across a stop sign:
  • If there’s no stop line, halt before the crosswalk.
  • If there’s no crosswalk, halt before the intersection where you can clearly see the intersecting roads.
  • Proceed only when it’s safe to do so.
• Two-Way Stops: At a two-way stop, traffic on the through road has the right-of-way. Vehicles on the stop-controlled road must yield to vehicles on the through road until it’s safe to proceed.
• Four-Way Stops: At a four-way stop, the first vehicle to arrive has the right-of-way. If two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the left one yields to the right. If two vehicles face each other and one is turning left, it yields to the other. Always prioritize safety and follow traffic rules.
• Yield Signs: When you see a YIELD sign, be ready to stop and give way to other vehicles or pedestrians in or heading towards the intersection. However, stopping is not necessary unless there are vehicles/pedestrians in or heading towards the intersection.
• 4-Way Stop: A 4-Way Stop requires traffic from all four directions to make a complete stop. The vehicle that reaches the intersection first should proceed first. If multiple drivers reach the intersection at the same time, drivers on the left must yield to drivers on their right.
• Turning Left: Vehicles turning left must yield to oncoming traffic.

Traffic Circles and Roundabouts

Traffic signals are usually used in residential neighborhoods whereas roundabouts are larger and used at places where traffic is heavy. Rules for both are quite similar.

• Slow Down: As you approach a roundabout, reduce your speed and be prepared to yield to any pedestrians or vehicles already in the roundabout.
• Choose the Proper Lane: If it’s a multilane roundabout, choose your lane based on your intended exit. Follow the signs showing which lanes can be used for different turns.
• Yield: Always yield to traffic and pedestrians in the roundabout. Wait for a safe gap in traffic, remembering those in the roundabout have the right of way.
• Enter the Roundabout: Enter the roundabout by turning right in order to keep right of the island. Continue counter-clockwise until you reach your exit.
• Exit the Roundabout: Use your right turn signal before exiting. Watch for pedestrians and cyclists and be ready to stop at the crosswalk.

Uncontrolled Intersections

These are intersections that lack traffic control mechanisms such as stop signs, yield signs, pavement markings, traffic lights, or traffic-directing personnel. They are commonly found in rural and suburban areas. The right-of-way at these intersections is usually determined by factors such as the position of the vehicle on the road, the order in which the vehicles arrived at the intersection, and the intended direction of each driver.

Right-of-Way at Uncontrolled Intersections:

• The vehicle that reaches the intersection first has the right-of-way.
• If multiple vehicles reach the intersection at about the same time, the drivers on the left should yield to the drivers on the right.
• If you’re making a left turn, you should yield to oncoming traffic, even if you were the first to arrive at the intersection.
• Yield to any traffic and pedestrians that are already in the intersection or about to enter it.
• If both you and an oncoming vehicle are making left turns, you can proceed without yielding by passing in front of each other.

Lane Usage

• Choose the lane that gives you the best view and direction.
• Drive in the right lanes on highways, especially if you're going slower.
• Don't stay in the left lane all the time, even if you're going the speed limit. It can make others pass unsafely on the right.
• On freeways with many lanes, use the middle or right lanes and leave the left lane for faster cars and passing.
• Tips for Turning Left
• Two-way road to two-way road: Move to the center lane and turn smoothly into the center lane of the cross street.
• One-way road to two-way road: Turn from the left lane into the center lane.
• Two-way road to one-way road: Turn from the center lane into the left lane.
• One-way road to one-way road: Turn from the left lane into the left lane.
• Turning Lanes: Use the designated turning lanes for making turns. For multiple turning lanes, choose your lane based on your intended direction.
• U-Turns: U-turns can be dangerous and are illegal in these situations:
• They interfere with traffic.
• On curves.
• Near the top of a hill (where you can't be seen within 150 meters).
• Where signs say "No U-Turn."
• At intersections with traffic lights.
• In business areas, unless there's no traffic light at the intersection.
• Where local laws forbid them.
• Reserved Lanes: Some lanes are reserved for specific types of vehicles, like buses or bicycles.
• HOV Lanes: High Occupancy Vehicle lanes are reserved for vehicles with multiple occupants.
• Bus Lanes: These lanes are specifically for bus traffic.
• Bicycle Lanes: These lanes are reserved for cyclists. Motor vehicles should not use these lanes.
• Passing: Always pass other vehicles safely and legally. Use passing lanes where available.
• Merging: When merging with other traffic, adjust your speed to match the flow of traffic.
• Highway or Freeway Entrances and Exits:
• On the entrance ramp, scan for a safe gap in traffic.
• Use the acceleration lane to match your speed with freeway traffic.
• Merge safely using the merging area, being mindful of cyclists.
• Signal your intention to leave the freeway and maintain speed until entering the exit lane.
• When driving in the right lane, help merging drivers by moving to the left lane if safe.
• Adjust your speed to create a gap for merging traffic.