A guide to California right-of-way laws
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Common sense, courtesy and the right-of-way rules work together to keep you safe on the road. This is why, when giving way means avoiding a collision that could harm other people or vehicles, you are required by law to do so. Most traffic accidents in California are caused by people who do not give way.
Summary of California right-of-way laws
Right-of-way laws in California can be summarized as follows:
Pedestrians
A pedestrian is any person who walks, uses roller skates or a skateboard, a wheelchair, a tricycle, or any other personal vehicle other than a bicycle. In California, you must yield to pedestrians.
You cannot overtake a vehicle waiting at a crosswalk.
You cannot drive on the sidewalk except to cross it, and when you cross you must give way to pedestrians.
You must stop within five feet of a crosswalk so pedestrians can cross safely.
You should always give way to blind people who hold out a cane to signal you that they want to enter the crosswalk. If they pull back on the cane, this is a signal that they want you to continue.
Pedestrians have the right of way regardless of whether the pedestrian crossing is marked or not.
Pedestrians are required to follow the rules of the road in the same way as motorists, but even if they make a mistake, you must give way.
Intersections
At any intersection, marked or unmarked, you must slow down and be prepared to stop.
The right of way is granted to the vehicle or bicycle that arrives first.
At unmarked intersections, give way to traffic on the carriageway.
When turning left, give way to any vehicle that is close enough to be a hazard.
At a four-way stop, give way to the vehicle in front and then to the vehicle on the right.
Carousel
Any vehicle entering or leaving must give way to a vehicle already at the roundabout.
Once at a roundabout, do not stop or give way to drivers trying to enter. You may think you are being polite, but you are actually risking an accident.
On mountain roads
There are very mountainous areas in California and this requires extra care.
- If you meet on a steep incline where no vehicle can pass, the downhill vehicle must reverse and give way to the uphill vehicle.
Common Misconceptions About California Right of Way Laws
In California, many people do not understand what a pedestrian is. It's not really just someone on foot - it could be a skateboarder or someone on roller skates. This is not a cyclist. However, when in doubt, it's best to be careful and assume that anyone using any type of personal vehicle is considered a pedestrian and should have the right of way.
Penalties for non-compliance
If you fail to yield the right-of-way in California, you will automatically be assessed a one-point penalty on your driver's license. As for fines, it will depend on the county and the court. In addition to legal fees, you may end up paying $400 or more for a single charge, so you're much better off complying with right-of-way laws.
For more information, see the California Driver's Handbook, pages 26-29 and 61.
