Who Has The Right-Of-Way At A Four-Way Stop Sign?

U.S. roads see thousands of car accidents every year, leading to numerous fatalities and injured victims. Each state has right-of-way laws to ensure that busy streets remain orderly. Despite these rules, failing to yield the right of way remains one of the most common causes of traffic accidents, leading to severe injuries and fatalities.

Many motorists are still confused with the right-of-way rules. Generally, the first vehicle at an intersection has the right-of-way, regardless of where it is positioned or the direction it travels. The first vehicle to arrive at an intersection will still have precedence, even if additional vehicles arrive before the first car can pass through. However, be careful of aggressive or distracted drivers who may disregard this rule.

Traffic crashes commonly occur when a driver makes a turn at intersections. They can also happen in large parking lots that are open to the public, such as shopping centers. To prevent this type of accident, drivers must understand the right-of-way rules and cautiously take turns at intersections.

Understanding Right-Of-Way At Four-Way Stops

A four-way stop, also known as an “all-way stop,” is an intersection where each connected road has a stop sign. A sign below it accompanies each stop sign indicating “four-way” or “all-way.” A four-way stop is often installed at intersections with high collision rates or on minor highways. It’s also common to see four-way stops at less visible intersections. For instance, intersections at the following locations recently became four-way stops:

To keep traffic flowing smoothly and prevent potential failure-to-yield accidents, you should understand and adhere to right-of-way rules at these intersections. These rules determine who should proceed first when vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists converge.

The vehicle that arrives at a 4-way stop sign at an intersection first has the right-of-way. Drivers should always look left, right, and ahead before entering the intersection and be prepared to slow down and stop if necessary. However, other factors may affect who goes first. Here’s a general guideline of how the right-of-way works at four-way stop intersections.

Who gets to go first at a four-way stop sign intersection if multiple cars arrive at the same time?  At a four-way stop sign intersection, the vehicle that arrives first has the right of way. If multiple cars arrive at the same time, the vehicle located furthest to the right generally has the right to go through the intersection first.

Yield To The Right

When two vehicles arrive at the intersection simultaneously, the vehicle on the outer right has the right-of-way. If more than two vehicles arrive at the same time, each vehicle should yield to the car on its right.

Right Turns Over Left Turns

When two vehicles arrive at a 4-way stop at the same time, with one turning right and the other turning left, the vehicle turning right has the right of way. Whenever you enter an intersection with the intention of turning left, you must wait until the vehicle about to turn right has passed. As you approach the intersection, proceed with caution and signal to other drivers that you’re making a turn.

Straight Traffic Over Turning Traffic

If two vehicles arrive head-to-head at the intersection, and one intends to turn and the other wants to go straight, the vehicle going straight generally has the right of way. If both vehicles are going straight or turning in the same direction, they can proceed simultaneously.

Yield To Pedestrians

Pedestrians usually have the right-of-way at intersections. Motorists and cyclists must always yield, regardless of their direction of travel. This rule applies even if the light is green for you and the crosswalk is unmarked.

Once you’ve ensured your right-of-way, proceed with caution and yield to traffic already on the road. Stopping at an intersection is illegal. Drive across the intersection only if you can safely do so before the traffic light turns red.

Pedestrians aside, it’s generally advisable to take the right of way when you have it, as this helps make your actions predictable and reduces confusion for other drivers. Unpredictable driving can lead to car accidents. As a driver, you should always exercise reasonable care. Even if you have the right of way, you should avoid proceeding if it’s clear that another driver does not intend to yield.

General Right-Of-Way And Traffic Rules At Intersections

The California Driver’s Handbook also has an overview of right-of-way laws at other intersections aside from four-way stops.

• Intersections Without STOP Or YIELD Signs — If a vehicle arrives at an intersection first, it has the right of way. However, if a pedestrian, cyclist, or vehicle on your right arrives at the intersection at the same time as you, you must yield to them.
• T-Intersections Without STOP Or YIELD Signs — The right-of-way belongs to the vehicles, bicyclists, and pedestrians on the through road (continuing to go straight).

Motorists must also be aware of the following when entering or crossing intersections:

Limit Lines

It is common to see thick white lines on the road indicating where a vehicle must come to a complete stop at intersections. The California Vehicle Code mandates drivers stop at the limit line when one is present.

In the absence of a limit line, drivers are required to stop before entering a crosswalk. If there is no crosswalk, the driver should stop at the closest point to the intersection where they can safely observe oncoming traffic. Compliance with this rule is crucial to ensuring pedestrians’ and motorists’ safety.

Stopping Distance Behind Cars

When stopping at intersections, you should maintain a distance between your vehicle and the one in front. The bottom of the vehicle’s tires in front should be visible to you. You should have enough space between the vehicles to allow for safe maneuvering if needed. In addition to preventing fender benders, it ensures adequate room to navigate around the vehicle in front if it becomes immobile.

How Long Should You Stop at Stop Signs and Signals?

The California Vehicle Code mandates a complete halt at stop signs and signals, but it does not specify a fixed time to stop. A complete stop should last at least two to three seconds. Such duration allows drivers to observe their surroundings and determine whether it’s safe to proceed. This pause will allow you to check for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles so that you can make informed decisions about safely navigating the intersection.

Proceeding After A Stop With Caution

After stopping, proceed cautiously. Keep an eye out for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles with the right-of-way. Drivers can roll slowly forward to the top edge of the sidewalk after a complete stop if their view is obstructed to check for traffic. This approach reduces collision chances and ensures smooth traffic flow.

Yielding The Right Of Way To Emergency Vehicles

Following the Move Over Law, fire engines, ambulances, police cars, and other emergency vehicles have the right-of-way when responding to emergencies. They will display flashing lights (in red, red and blue, or red and white) and sound sirens or air horns.

Here’s what you need to do when you see or hear an emergency vehicle coming your way:

• Pull over promptly and carefully to the right side of the road.
• If you are in the middle of an intersection, cross the junction before pulling over.
• On two-way roads, stop for an emergency vehicle, even if it is heading your way.
• When you hear a siren or air horn close by, you must pull over to the right-side edge of the road and stop until you are sure it is not coming your way.

Stay stopped until the emergency vehicle has passed and it is safe to proceed. By following these guidelines, you ensure your safety and that of emergency responders. Remember that emergency vehicles are exempt from traffic laws while responding to critical situations. This means they may exceed the speed limit, pass through red lights, or even drive the wrong way. Be prepared for unexpected maneuvers.

Yielding Right Of Way To Pedestrians

Drivers must yield to pedestrians and other vulnerable individuals on the road, regardless of crosswalks or right-of-way rules. Examples are individuals using mobility devices such as wheelchairs or those on roller skates or skateboards. California recently passed the Freedom To Walk Act, which decriminalized jaywalking to a certain degree. Pedestrians do not have unrestricted freedom to cross streets at will. Jaywalking is still discouraged, and pedestrians can face punishment if they do not exercise due care and cause harm to others.

Nonetheless, drivers must be more vigilant and cautious, especially when pedestrians are present. Here are some guidelines on what drivers should keep in mind:

• Drivers must be alert for pedestrians when turning left or right at intersections, regardless of traffic signals or signs.
• Avoid passing stopped vehicles at crosswalks, as they may be yielding to obscured pedestrians.
• Yield to pedestrians when they make eye contact with you. This indicates that they’re ready to cross the street.
• Allow pedestrians enough time to cross the street safely, especially those who may need extra assistance, such as older people, children, or individuals with disabilities.

Failing to yield the right of way to pedestrians can cause serious accidents, putting them at risk of severe physical trauma like brain injuries and spinal cord injuries.

What Happens If Drivers Don’t Yield The Right Of Way?

Numerous car and pedestrian accidents occur at intersections because of failure to yield, leading to bodily injuries and, potentially, thousands of dollars in damages. These could range from minor cuts and bruises to more serious injuries like organ damage and head trauma. As a result, many victims incur significant medical expenses and face longer recovery periods. Meanwhile, others might sustain more severe injuries and long-term complications like paralysis.

While many drivers follow right-of-way rules, some fail to yield, either due to a lack of knowledge or willful disregard for the law. This behavior can lead to traffic accidents, putting lives at risk and resulting in significant legal and financial consequences.

Accidents Caused By Failure To Yield

Not yielding the right-of-way can result in various types of accidents, including:

• Side-Impact Collisions — These accidents, also known as T-bone collisions, occur when a driver fails to yield at an intersection, striking another vehicle from the side. These types of accidents can be particularly severe due to the lack of side protection in most vehicles.
• Pedestrian Accidents — Failure to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks or intersections can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. Pedestrians in dangerous cities and other areas with high foot traffic and reckless drivers are at risk for this type of accident. These incidents also include accidents involving scooters, skateboards, and other mobility devices.
• Bicycle Accidents — Cyclists are particularly vulnerable when drivers fail to yield, especially during right turns, when they may be hidden in the driver’s blind spot near the curb. Bicycle accidents can result in serious or fatal injuries to the cyclist.
• Head-On Collisions — If a driver fails to yield while making a left turn, they risk crashing head-on into oncoming traffic. Due to the high-impact forces involved, head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of accidents. When two vehicles collide head-on, their combined momentum is concentrated in a very small area, leading to severe damage and injuries.

Why Do Some Drivers Fail To Yield?

Distracted driving is a common cause of failure to yield. Drivers who are preoccupied with their phones, food, or other activities may not notice when it’s time to let other vehicles proceed. Lack of attention often leads to critical errors, especially at intersections or pedestrian crossings.

Reckless driving behaviors can also play a role, with drivers in a rush choosing to ignore right-of-way rules, speeding through intersections, or making turns without stopping. Ignoring stop signs or signals is another major factor. Some drivers overlook or intentionally disregard traffic control devices, such as stop signs, yield signs, and traffic lights. This can lead to red light accidents and other reckless driving-related collisions.

Poor weather conditions can reduce visibility. If the driver is not careful, they could accidentally fail to yield, causing rain-related accidents. Other factors that could reduce visibility and cause a failure-to-yield accident are large vehicles, roadside obstacles, and glare from the sun or headlights.

As of 2021, California law dictates that failure to yield has a fine of $238 and a point assessed on their driving record. Bail is higher at $490 if one fails to yield to an emergency vehicle. Penalties could be higher for offenses committed within highway construction or maintenance areas. Furthermore, if they cause a motor vehicle accident, the driver who failed to yield will likely be found completely or partially responsible for the incident. In such a case, they would be liable for compensating the victims involved.

How To Be The Safest Driver At A Busy Four-Way Stop

You can prevent a crash at a four-way stop by following these steps:

• Come to a complete stop at all times.
• Use your turn signals to inform other motorists which direction you’re going.
• Observe the right-of-way, especially if you’re turning left or right.
• Do not proceed unless you have the right-of-way and it is safe to do so.
• Stay alert and focused on the road.
• Avoid distractions while driving, such as phone calls or texts.
• Observe the arrival order and adhere to the right-of-way rules.
• Avoid challenging a driver who ignores the right of way.

Do not assume that other drivers will grant you the right-of-way. Yield to other vehicles when necessary to avoid collisions.

What To Do After A Car Accident At A Four-Way Stop

The risk of an accident can increase at intersections. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) reports that nearly one-fourth of traffic accident fatalities and one-half of traffic injuries in the U.S. each year happen at intersections. Considering the potential danger, you should know beforehand what to do after a car collision. Here are the steps you should take:

Stop Your Vehicle, Check For Injuries, And Call The Police

The Accidents and Accident Reports chapter in the California Vehicle Code requires all motorists to stop their vehicles after a collision and remain at the scene. This includes car accidents that happen at an intersection. After stopping, immediately check yourself and your passengers for signs of injuries. Emergency care always takes precedence in a serious injury, so you must call 911 immediately.

Additionally, you should report the incident to local law enforcement. If the accident happened in California, you must notify the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Responding officers will help control the scene and document it.

Exchange Information And Document The Crash

A driver who proceeds through an intersection without the right of way can be legally liable if they cause an intersection accident. While the accident is still being investigated, all the motorists involved may potentially be liable. This is why you should exchange information with all other parties. Ask for their name, license number, and insurance details. Also, take note of the vehicle’s plate numbers.

Take pictures, ask witnesses for contact information, and write down your version of the scene. This will help your car accident lawyer determine the liable parties and build your case.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention For Any Injuries

If you’ve sustained an injury, seek medical care even if you feel relatively okay. Some injuries, such as whiplash, back injuries, and concussions, are not immediately apparent. Early treatment can reduce pain, speed up recovery, and prevent long-term complications.

Medical records serve as evidence of your injuries, directly linking them to the accident. They also detail the medical treatment you received, including surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and other procedures. This information helps demonstrate the extent of your injuries and the ongoing care required.

Consult An Attorney

Talk to a lawyer with extensive experience in traffic accidents before speaking to an insurance adjuster. Insurance companies often have teams of legal experts working for them. Without legal representation, you may unknowingly make statements that could harm your case. An attorney can guide you through the process and protect your rights.

You deserve full and fair compensation for the damages in your personal injury case, such as vehicle repairs, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Traffic accident lawyers are skilled negotiators who can deal directly with insurance companies on your behalf. They can help you secure a fair settlement reflecting the full extent of your losses.

Pro Tip: Prepare For Car Accidents

No one wants to be involved in traffic accidents. However, sometimes things happen too fast, and we can’t respond immediately. Thinking ahead and preparing for the unexpected can go a long way. There are two primary things you can do to prepare — get uninsured/underinsured motorist  (UM/UIM) coverage and ensure you have the local emergency dispatch contact numbers.

Get UM/UIM Coverage

Your UM/UIM coverage is important because it covers you if:

UM/UIM coverage applies whether you’re on a bike, in a car, or on foot. It will help you recover your medical expenses, lost wages, out-of-pocket costs, and pain and suffering.

To check if you have it, look at the declaration page of your auto insurance policy. Look for the section titled “Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist” (UM/UIM). It should indicate a coverage amount that is not less than your liability amount.

Add Emergency Contacts On Your Phone

Set up your health ID information and keep it updated on your smartphone. Another option is to include emergency contact information in your lock screen photo. If you regularly ride in a city or county, make sure your phone has the local emergency dispatch numbers. Doing this ensures quick access to emergency dispatchers. When using a cell phone to call 911, some municipalities route your call to the California Highway Patrol, which can add critical minutes to first responders’ arrival times.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do If I Arrive First At A Four-Way Stop Before Other Vehicles?

If you stop at an intersection before the other cars arrive, you get to go first, no matter if they are turning or going straight. After that, the succeeding vehicles may pass accordingly. First, the one on the rightmost, followed by the one going straight, then those turning right.

However, extra caution is still necessary. An aggressive driver may recklessly pass without considering who has the right of way.

What Happens When Two Or Three Vehicles Arrive At The Same Time?

If two or three motorists reach a four-way stop simultaneously, the vehicle going straight takes precedence over those that will turn. If both vehicles will go straight, they can proceed at the same time. On the other hand, if one turns right and the other left, the one turning right may proceed first.

Drivers must use their turn signals as they approach the intersection to ensure safety and avoid confusion. Proper turn signal use communicates each driver’s intentions, reducing the risk of collisions.

What Happens If Four Cars Get To A Four-Way Stop At The Same Time?

Generally, the first vehicle at the intersection has the right-of-way at a four-way stop. However, in case all four stops are occupied, vehicles must pass clockwise, beginning with the rightmost vehicle.

Drivers must use their turn signal lights accordingly as they approach the intersection. This way, other motorists would know which direction they are heading. Lastly, it’s best to yield to all other vehicles to be safe.

Are There Situations When Multiple Vehicles Can Go At The Same Time?

There are situations when multiple vehicles can go simultaneously, particularly if they won’t cross each other’s paths. For instance, the first vehicle at the intersection may pass through it at the same time as another vehicle going straight across from it. If all vehicles are turning right, they may pass through the intersection simultaneously, provided they do so with caution. A vehicle may also turn right at the same time as another vehicle going straight, provided that they do not cross paths.

Under these circumstances, drivers should be alert. They should check to see if other motorists are entering the intersection to avoid collisions. If in doubt, they should wait until they have the right of way.

What Rules Apply To Pedestrians And Bicyclists At 4-Way Stops?

Pedestrians have the right of way in most states. In California, the DMV Handbook states that “pedestrians have the right-of-way in marked or unmarked crosswalks.” Motorists and cyclists yield to pedestrians, provided they don’t pose a safety hazard. Likewise, a driver at a four-way stop must always check for pedestrians crossing the intersection. Neglecting to do so may cause pedestrian accidents. If this happens and the pedestrian sustains injuries, the motorist may bear the financial repercussions.

Bicyclists, however, must obey the same traffic laws as motorists. Therefore, bicyclists must follow the rules of four-way stops and yield to the appropriate vehicles.

How Do Flashing Yellow Lights Compare To Four-Way Stop Signs?

Four-way stops are different from flashing yellow lights. At a four-way stop, all approaching vehicles are required to come to a complete stop, regardless of whether the intersection appears clear or not. The right-of-way is determined based on the order of arrival, with vehicles yielding to those on their right or following specific turning rules if they arrive simultaneously.

In contrast, flashing yellow lights are a warning rather than a command to stop. When approaching an intersection with flashing yellow lights, drivers should slow down, proceed with caution, and only pass through when it is safe to do so.

Who Can File A Failure To Yield Accident Claim?

An individual may file a failure-to-yield accident claim if someone else’s negligence or recklessness seriously injured them. Pedestrians, cyclists, or other motorists, regardless of their age, gender, and immigration status, may seek financial compensation for damages caused by the accident.

Injured In A Crash At A Four-Way Stop? Our Top-Notch Lawyers Can Help!

Can I file a personal injury case after my accident? Will I get compensated? Do I need to hire a personal injury lawyer for my case? Can they ensure a favorable outcome for my case? If you’re asking yourself these questions, Arash Law can help and provide answers. Call us today at (888) 488-1391, and one of our reliable pedestrian accident attorneys will answer your queries as best they can.

A driver who violates right-of-way rules and causes a car crash may be liable for any injuries they cause—to other motorists, cyclists, or pedestrians. For decades, accident victims and their families have been trusting the intersection accident attorneys at Arash Law. We have recovered over $500 Million for our clients, and we can provide the same service to you. Our premier law firm offers an initial free consultation. Moreover, our industry-recognized lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means we will only get paid once we obtain compensation for you.

We provide services in various cities and counties throughout California, including Riverside, Pomona, Ontario, Newport Beach, Moreno Valley, Modesto,  Milpitas, Long Beach, Lancaster, and La Jolla. Contact us by filling out our online form, and we’ll come to your location—anytime, anywhere.