Should the vehicle on the right have the right of way at a T-junction?
2 Answers
Giving the right of way to the vehicle on the right refers to the situation where there are no traffic lights, no traffic signs (such as yield signs), and no traffic police directing traffic. In such cases, the rule of 'yielding to vehicles going straight' should be followed first. Below are the relevant details: When passing through an intersection without traffic lights or traffic control, and there are no traffic signs, and both vehicles are going straight, the rule of 'yielding to the vehicle on the right' must be followed. This is based on Article 52 of the 'Implementation Regulations of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China.' For example, if Vehicle A is going straight from south to north, and Vehicle B is going straight from west to east, then before the collision, Vehicle A is on the right side of Vehicle B. In this case, Vehicle B must yield to Vehicle A. It is important to emphasize that Vehicle B can only enter the intersection after ensuring that Vehicle A has passed smoothly, completely, and safely. Remember, it's about entering the intersection. Otherwise, it is Vehicle B's responsibility, regardless of where the collision occurs—even if it's at the very rear of Vehicle A. Even if Vehicle A hits Vehicle B, it is still Vehicle B's responsibility. This is the rule of 'yielding to the vehicle on the right.' When two vehicles are turning into the middle lane simultaneously and an accident occurs, the same principle applies. First, it must be confirmed that there are no traffic lights, no traffic control, and no traffic signs. Before the accident, if Vehicle B is on the right side of Vehicle A, then when both vehicles are turning into the middle lane simultaneously and an accident occurs, it is Vehicle A's responsibility. When two vehicles are turning simultaneously and both are making a left turn, resulting in a collision, the same conditions apply. There must be no traffic lights, no traffic control, and no traffic signs at the intersection. Before the accident, if Vehicle B is on the right side of Vehicle A, then when both vehicles are turning simultaneously and an accident occurs, it is Vehicle A's responsibility. It should be noted that such scenarios are not explicitly mentioned in the 'Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China' or its 'Implementation Regulations,' but some provincial 'Implementation Regulations' have clear stipulations on this matter.
Having driven for over a decade, I always give priority to vehicles from the right at T-junctions—it's a fundamental rule. Unsignalized intersections are particularly hazardous, as right-side vehicles have the right of way since they may come from the main road or your blind spot. I’ve witnessed accidents caused by drivers forcing their way through, harming both themselves and others. So, every time I approach a T-junction, I slow down and check the right first, proceeding only if it’s clear. If a vehicle is approaching from the right, I simply stop and let it pass. Safe driving outweighs saving a few seconds, especially in urban traffic. Developing this habit avoids trouble and fines. Remember, traffic rules aren’t decorations—following them protects lives, yours and others’. New drivers must learn this—never take it lightly.
