Right of Way Rules in Illinois

 Posted on December 00,0000 in Car Accidents

According to a study conducted by the Federal Highway Safety Administration (FHSA), more than two-thirds of drivers fail to stop and yield the right of way to another driver at stop signs at intersections. This study was conducted using 40,000 drivers, which demonstrates that drivers who may have the right of way need to be vigilant of approaching vehicles not obeying right of way rules of the road.

One of the most important safety tips a driver can do to avoid a vehicle crash is to heed to all traffic signs. Stop signs and yield signs should be followed. These signs are specifically instructing drivers they do not have the right of way. Sometimes, however, right of way laws can be confusing, but there are certain constants that often apply and can help you avoid getting into a crash. These include:

• Four-way stop sign intersections: The driver who arrived at the intersection has the right of way. If two or more drivers arrive at the intersection at the same time, then the driver on the right proceeds first.
• Two road intersections with no signal light or stop signs: The driver who is on the smaller road must yield the right of way to drivers who are on the larger, or multiple lanes, road.
• T-intersections: A t-intersection is one where a road is coming to a dead end and the driver needs to turn either left or right. If there are no traffic lights, then the driver coming to the end of the road must yield right of way to traffic on the road he or she is turning into.
• Driving out of a parking space: Whether you are pulling out of a space on the side of the road or from a driveway, you are always required to yield the right of way to drivers already on the road.
• Roundabouts: When approaching a circular intersection, vehicles already in the roundabout have the right of way. If two or more drivers come upon the intersection at the same time, the driver on the right has the right of way to enter.

There are exceptions to the right of way laws. No matter what situation you are in where you may have the right-of-way, you are required to yield that right of way to emergency vehicles, funeral processions, and school buses which are stopping. It is also important to remember to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians who are in crosswalks.

If you have been injured in an accident caused by a driver who failed to obey right of way rules, contact an experienced Lake County car crash attorney to find out what legal recourse you may have for your pain and loss.

Sources:

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?DocName=062500050HCh.+11+Art.+IX&ActID=1815&ChapterID=49&SeqStart=120000000&SeqEnd=121000000

http://seniordriving.aaa.com/improve-your-driving-skills/everyday-driving-challenges/yielding-right-way