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Rules of the Road (Chapter 4)

TL;DR

Right-of-way is given, not taken; keep time-based following gaps and adapt speed to conditions (basic speed law) even if below the posted limit.

Scope

Right-of-way, lane discipline, following distance, speed law application, and courtesy yielding. Verify any numeric thresholds in official guide.

Learning Objectives

  • Apply right-of-way at intersections and merges.
  • Maintain adequate time-based following distance.
  • Differentiate posted, advisory, and basic speed law responsibilities.
  • Execute safe lane changes and merges.

1. Right-of-Way Principles

Given—not taken. Priority examples:

  • First arrival at all-way stop proceeds first; simultaneous arrival: yield to right.
  • Left turns yield to oncoming straight/right-turning traffic.
  • Entering roadway (driveway/alley) yields to existing traffic.
  • Pedestrians in crosswalk (marked/unmarked) typically have priority.

4-way stop visual

At a 4‑way stop with simultaneous arrival, yield to the vehicle on your right.
Yielding to the right avoids deadlocks at simultaneous arrival.

2. Lane Discipline

  • Center your vehicle; avoid weaving.
  • Pass only where permitted & safe; allow clear sight distance.
  • Signal early; check mirrors then shoulder before lateral movement.
  • Avoid lingering in blind spots of larger vehicles.

3. Following Distance

Use second-count method; expand gap for:

  • Bad weather / low visibility.
  • Higher speeds (highway).
  • Following large obstructive vehicles.

4. Speed Management

  • Posted limit: Maximum under ideal conditions.
  • Basic law: Adjust speed to conditions (may be well below posted).
  • Advisory signs: Suggest safe speed for specific hazard (curve, ramp) not enforceable as absolute limit.

5. Lane Change & Merge Sequence

Mirror → signal → shoulder check → adjust speed/gap → move smoothly → cancel signal.

6. Courtesy & Defensive Yielding

  • Allow merging vehicles space rather than forcing late braking.
  • Communicate intent clearly with consistent positioning & signaling.
  • Yield if another driver’s behavior suggests uncertainty.

Quick Self-Check

  • Difference between posted and basic speed law?
  • Steps in safe lane change sequence?
  • When do you expand following distance?

Proceed to quiz when ready.

3 things to remember

  • Lane change sequence: mirror → signal → shoulder check → adjust → move → cancel.
  • Expand following distance with speed and lower traction.
  • Basic speed law: slow to what’s safe for conditions, not just the posted limit.

Quick Flashcards

Quick Review

At a 4-way stop with simultaneous arrival, who goes first? Yield to the driver on your right.
What is the basic speed law? You must drive at a safe speed for conditions, even if that is below the posted limit.
List the lane change sequence. Mirror, signal, shoulder check, adjust speed/gap, move, cancel signal.