One of the most important lessons when learning to drive is yielding the right of way. However, as time passes, drivers can forget the rules for yielding the right of way or disregard their importance, resulting in unfortunate accidents and injuries for those involved.

If you’re the victim of a right-of-way accident, you may face injuries and mounting medical bills. A California car accident attorney can manage your case to protect your rights and help you pursue compensation for your injuries.

Yielding the Right of Way — What Does It Mean?

Yielding the right of way means that a driver allows other vehicles, including bicycles, to go ahead of them. Yielding the right of way typically occurs at intersections but can also include other places, like highway entrance ramps.

When a driver yields the right of way to another driver, they allow the other vehicle to proceed before them. For example, if you’re making a turn and there is a yield sign, you need to yield to oncoming traffic until no cars are coming or you have the correct traffic signal.

California traffic laws require drivers to yield the right of way to pedestrians. Yielding the right of way to pedestrians means you allow them to cross the road, even after the light has already turned green. While drivers owe pedestrians a duty to drive carefully, pedestrians must also ensure they walk safely.

Rules for Yielding the Right of Way in California

The California Vehicle Code offers certain right-of-way rules. They include the following:

  • In an intersection controlled by a traffic light, drivers must obey the light
  • The first person to stop at an intersection with stop signs has the right of way
  • If two vehicles stop at an intersection with stop signs at the same time, the vehicle on the right has the right of way
  • When making a left-hand turn, drivers must yield to oncoming traffic
  • At a T-intersection, the driver must yield the right of way to drivers on the continuous road

Rules for yielding the right of way can be confusing for drivers. Therefore, it is best to familiarize yourself with the laws in California. Additionally, always pay attention to the road while driving to minimize the likelihood of an accident.

What Are the Consequences of Failing to Yield the Right of Way in California?

You’re violating California law if you fail to yield the right of way. You could receive a traffic ticket, resulting in fines and other penalties.

Aside from the legal consequences, failing to yield the right of way can also easily cause accidents. Many collisions result from right-of-way incidents. 

In a right-of-way accident, the liable party may be responsible for paying for the victim’s damages, including:

  • Medical expenses
  • Property damage
  • Lost wages and earning potential
  • Permanent scarring
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of enjoyment of life

It is important to pay attention to traffic while driving and respect the right of way rules. When doing so, drivers can avoid penalties and protect others on the road.

In Case of a Right-of-Way Collision, Consult with a California Car Accident Attorney

Failing to yield the right of way is one of the most common causes of accidents. While these car accidents are completely avoidable, they happen all too often. 

A car accident lawyer in Vista, CA can help you handle your claim if you’re the victim of a right-of-way collision. Having an attorney on your side can give you peace of mind and ensure that your case is handled promptly and efficiently. 

Contact the North County Car Accident Lawyers at Petrov Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today

For more information, please contact the Vista personal injury law firm of Petrov Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.

We serve in North County, CA and its surrounding areas:

Petrov Personal Injury Lawyers – Vista, CA Office
380 S Melrose Dr. Ste. 201
Vista, CA 92081

(619) 344-0360

Petrov Petrov Personal Injury Lawyers – Oceanside, CA Office
702 Civic Center Drive Ste. 105
Oceanside, CA, 92054

(619) 678-1016