What does "right of way" mean?

The concept of "right of way" refers to the legal entitlement that allows a driver to proceed first in traffic situations. It is crucial for maintaining safety and order on the roads, as it helps to clarify who has priority in various driving scenarios. Understanding who has the right of way helps to prevent accidents and ensures that drivers know when it is safe to proceed or when they should yield to others.

In different traffic situations, the right of way can be determined by various factors, including traffic lights, signs, and the specific rules of the road. For instance, typically, vehicles already in a roundabout have the right of way over those entering, and pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks. This legal framework promotes predictability in driving behavior, which is vital for road safety.