At an intersection, should straight-going vehicles yield to left-turning or right-turning vehicles?
4 Answers
Yielding to either left-turning or right-turning vehicles when going straight is not in compliance with regulations. The correct yielding rule is that turning vehicles must yield to straight-going vehicles. When straight-going vehicles encounter turning vehicles, it is the turning vehicles that must yield to the straight-going ones, not the other way around. If a traffic accident occurs due to a turning vehicle failing to yield to a straight-going vehicle, the turning vehicle will bear full responsibility. Below are the relevant regulations: When motor vehicles pass through intersections without traffic signals or traffic police directing traffic, in addition to complying with the provisions of Article 51, Paragraphs (2) and (3), they must also adhere to the following rules: 1. If there are traffic signs or markings, yield to the party with the right of way. 2. If there are no traffic signs or markings, stop before entering the intersection, look around, and yield to vehicles coming from the right; vehicles on minor roads must yield to those on major roads. 3. Turning motor vehicles must yield to straight-going vehicles. 4. Right-turning motor vehicles traveling in the opposite direction must yield to left-turning vehicles.
When I first started driving, I also often wondered about this - at a crossroad when going straight, should I yield to the left or right. After years of experience, I've learned that at uncontrolled intersections in right-hand traffic countries, generally you should give priority to vehicles coming from the right. Cars approaching from the right are usually closer to your path, and these rules are designed to minimize collisions. I always slow down first and make sure there are no cars coming from the right before proceeding; don't just rely on the rules, you also need to assess the actual situation - like waiting a few extra seconds in foggy conditions or when pedestrians are present. Occasionally when encountering inexperienced drivers trying to cut in, I'll honk as a reminder, but staying calm is most important - don't risk an accident just to save a few seconds. During regular car maintenance, I always check the braking system - this habit can be life-saving in critical moments, especially since intersections are high-risk areas. Driving isn't just about speed - it's more about anticipation.
Safety first, yielding to the right when going straight at an intersection is a fundamental principle. Vehicles on the right are more likely to enter blind spots, and giving them priority helps avoid side collisions. I never speed through intersections, always slowing down in advance and scanning left and right; I also watch out for bicycles or electric scooters cutting in, as their paths are harder to predict. Driving instructors often say that rules aren’t absolute—adjust based on the situation: for example, during rush hour with heavy traffic, proactively yield a bit more. Make it a habit to check your lights and horn to ensure other drivers see you. Accidents often stem from negligence, so I share this advice hoping everyone stays safe and hassle-free on the road. Remember, yielding isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a smart choice.
I had a headache with the yielding rules when learning to drive - should I yield to the left or right when going straight? During practice, I learned that at uncontrolled intersections, you must yield to the right-side vehicle first because it's closer to your car's front and more prone to accidents. Now when driving, I always check the right mirror before crossing an intersection and proceed only when clear; if there's heavy traffic, I'd rather wait a few extra seconds - safety first. Beginners tend to rush, and I was no exception at first, but with more practice it becomes second nature. I recommend regularly reviewing the driving manual to build experience and avoid headaches.
