Right of Way Rules in Virginia

You’re cruising down the road in Virginia and approaching an intersection. A car approaches next to you, and you’re left wondering: Who’s supposed to go first? It’s a moment of hesitation we’ve all faced, and it can be confusing if you’re unsure about the rules. But here’s the thing: the right of way rules are more than just a rule—it’s a matter of safety. Knowing who should go first in any situation could help you avoid accidents, keep your insurance rates down, and drive more confidently.

At Merrick Brock PLLC, we have decades of legal experience. When understanding traffic laws, you don’t have to go it alone. In this blog, we’re diving into Virginia’s right-of-way rules so you can drive with clarity and peace of mind. Whether you’re navigating busy streets or quiet rural roads, knowing who yields and when could make all the difference in the world. Let’s break it down!

What Are Right of Way Rules?

In simple terms, right of way refers to the legal right to proceed first in a specific traffic situation. These rules are not just suggestions—they’re laws designed to promote order, minimize confusion, and prevent collisions. Accidents and legal consequences can quickly follow when drivers fail to follow them.

Right-of-way rules apply in various scenarios, from intersections and roundabouts to merging lanes and pedestrian crossings. Knowing these rules helps ensure smooth interactions between vehicles, pedestrians, and other road users.

Key Right of Way Rules in Virginia

Virginia law outlines several right-of-way scenarios, each tailored to specific traffic situations. Here’s a breakdown in plain language.

Uncontrolled Intersections

If you and another vehicle arrive at an uncontrolled intersection simultaneously, the car on the left must yield to the one on the right. 

Stop and Yield Signs Before Entering Certain Highways

At a stop sign, you must stop completely and yield to traffic on some highways before proceeding. If a yield sign is present, slow down and only proceed when it’s safe, giving way to any approaching vehicles.

Roundabouts

Roundabouts are designed to improve traffic flow and reduce the risk of high-speed collisions at intersections. In Virginia, roundabout rules are straightforward: vehicles already in the circle have the right of way. If you’re approaching a roundabout, you must yield to all traffic circulating within it.

Turning Left

Making a left turn is one of the most dangerous maneuvers on the road because it often involves crossing lanes of oncoming traffic. Drivers making a left turn must yield to oncoming traffic and wait until it’s safe to proceed. This rule ensures safety in intersections and prevents collisions with vehicles going straight or turning right.

Merging from Private Roads or Driveways

If you’re entering a public road from a private driveway, alley, or parking lot, you must stop and yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.  

Emergency Vehicles

When an emergency vehicle with sirens and flashing lights approaches, Virginia law requires you to pull over to the nearest edge of the road and stop. Stay there until the vehicle has passed, ensuring you don’t obstruct its path.

Funeral Processions

Vehicles in funeral processions with police escorts have the right of way. Drivers outside the procession must avoid cutting through or interfering, respecting the solemnity of the event. Funeral processions are a time-honored tradition, and yielding to them demonstrates respect and an understanding of Virginia’s traffic laws.

Pedestrian Crossings

Virginia law gives pedestrians the right of way in the following circumstances:

• Marked crosswalks. Drivers must yield to pedestrians in clearly marked crosswalks, whether midblock or at the end of the block.
• Unmarked crossings at intersections. At regular pedestrian crossings—i.e., extensions of a sidewalk at the end of a block—drivers must yield to pedestrians.
• Low-speed intersections. Drivers must yield to pedestrians at intersections with a speed limit of 35 mph or less..

Following these rules is imperative to help prevent accidents on the road.

Right Turns on Red

Virginia allows drivers to make right turns at a red light unless a sign specifically prohibits it. However, you must come to a complete stop first and yield to both pedestrians and oncoming traffic before proceeding cautiously.

Unlawful Speed

Drivers who are speeding automatically forfeit the right of way they would have had if they followed Virginia’s traffic laws.  

Why Right of Way Rules Matter

Understanding and following right-of-way rules is essential for creating a smooth, predictable, and safe driving environment. When right-of-way laws are correctly observed, vehicles and pedestrians can interact in a way that minimizes risk. Here’s why adhering to these rules is so critical.

Prevents Confusion and Promotes Safety

Knowing when to yield and who has the right of way at busy intersections helps prevent confusion and miscommunication among drivers. Right-of-way rules help define who has priority, which is crucial when two or more vehicles approach an intersection at the same time. These rules protect pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists by setting boundaries for where each road user should expect to move.  

Reduces the Chances of Traffic Violations and Legal Consequences

Failing to adhere to right-of-way rules doesn’t just increase the likelihood of accidents—it can also lead to traffic violations and legal consequences. In Virginia, for example, if you fail to yield the right of way when required, you could face a citation for improper driving, which may result in fines or increased insurance premiums. 

Minimizes Liability in Accidents

Following right-of-way rules also reduces your risk of being held liable in the event of an accident. Virginia operates under a contributory negligence rule, which means that if you are even slightly at fault in an accident, you may lose the ability to recover damages in a personal injury claim. Therefore, when you strictly observe right-of-way rules, you decrease the chances of being considered partially responsible in an accident, thus protecting your legal and financial interests.

Contact Our Experienced Attorneys for a Free Case Evaluation

Understanding Virginia’s right-of-way rules is essential for safe driving and legal compliance. These guidelines help maintain order on the roads, protect pedestrians, and prevent unnecessary accidents. As a driver, taking the time to learn and follow these rules demonstrates respect for others on the road and a commitment to safety.

If you’ve been involved in an accident related to right-of-way issues or have questions about how these rules apply to your situation, Merrick Brock PLLC is here to help. Our team understands the complexities of traffic laws in Virginia and is dedicated to providing the guidance and support you need. Contact us today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.

Posted In: Auto Accidents, Personal Injury