Staying safe while driving around busy cities like Austin, Texas, means familiarizing yourself with right-of-way laws. These laws dictate when you are allowed to proceed and when you need to yield to a pedestrian, bicycle, or other vehicle.
Right-of-way rules help reduce the risk of car accidents and keep traffic flowing smoothly in the Lone Star State’s capital. Here’s everything you need to know.
Right Of Way At Intersections
One of the most common right-of-way laws concerns non-lighted intersections, such as four-way intersections with a stop sign at each lane. In fact, the Texas Transportation Code has an entire subchapter dedicated to these laws. You can find them in Texas TC Chapter 545, Subchapter D.
The basic rule is that whichever vehicle arrives first at a stop sign has the right of way. If you and another driver reach your respective stop signs at the same time, the driver on the right gets the right of way.
Similarly, if you are driving up to an uncontrolled intersection without stop signs or traffic lights, you must yield to the vehicle that is already in the intersection. Unfortunately, not everyone abides by this rule, especially if they are in a hurry. Therefore, it’s important for you to keep an eye out for other drivers who may be entering the intersection, even if you have the right of way.
Yielding To Pedestrians and Cyclists
In Austin, you are required to yield to pedestrians and cyclists who are crossing the road in a marked crosswalk. You even have to yield if you are permitted to turn left or right.
For example, suppose that you are stopped at a lighted intersection and want to turn left. If the lighted arrow governing your traffic lane turns green, but there is a pedestrian crossing the crosswalk in the lane to your left, you would need to wait.
Failing to yield the right of way to non-vehicular traffic can result in serious pedestrian or bicycle accidents. Once again, not everyone is aware of these rules, which means it’s crucial to know your responsibilities and look out for careless pedestrians and cyclists. If you are walking through town or riding your bike, always be on the lookout for drivers who fail to yield to you.
Right Of Way In Parking Lots and Driveways
Parking lots and driveways are frequent locations for minor accidents due to unclear right-of-way practices. If you are exiting a parking lot or driveway, you must yield to traffic on the main road. This includes pedestrians on sidewalks.
When driving within parking lots, yield to vehicles that have already exited their parking spaces. Drive slow and stay alert so that you can avoid a crash.
Common Right Of Way Issues
One of the most frequent misunderstandings on Texas roads is the assumption that having the right of way means you can always proceed. However, even if you have the right of way, you should remain alert to stay safe and avoid accidents. For instance, you must also be wary of distracted drivers who may enter an intersection, despite which driver has the right of way.
Why You Need To Know Right Of Way Laws
Taking the time to learn right-of-way laws in Texas can help you stay out of harm’s way while walking, biking, or driving around town. When in doubt, slow down and defer the right of way rather than rushing to get through an intersection. By knowing when to yield, you can avoid collisions and help make Austin roads that much safer.
Contact our Car Accident Lawyers at McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers for Legal Help With Your Case
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, contact your nearest McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers location to schedule a free consultation today:
McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers – Austin, TX Office
502 W 14th St, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 474-0222
McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers – Salt Lake City, UT Office
650 S 500, Suite 290, Salt Lake City, UT 84104
(512) 474-0222
