A guide to right-of-way laws in South Carolina
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According to the South Carolina Driver's Manual, "right of way" defines who must yield and wait at intersections or any other location where multiple vehicles or a combination of pedestrians and vehicles cannot move at the same time. These laws are based on both courtesy and common sense, and are in place to ensure smooth traffic as well as to prevent damage to vehicles and injury to drivers and pedestrians.
Summary of South Carolina Right of Way Laws
Right-of-way laws in South Carolina can be summarized as follows:
If you are approaching an intersection and there are no road signs or signals, you must give way to a driver who is already at the intersection.
If two vehicles are about to enter an intersection and it is not clear who should be granted right of way, the driver of the vehicle on the left must yield the right of way to the motorist on the right.
If you are at an intersection and are trying to turn left, you must give way to vehicles already at the intersection, as well as to approaching vehicles.
If you stop at a traffic light and plan to turn left on a green light, you must give way to oncoming traffic as well as pedestrians.
Turning right at a red light is permitted unless there is a sign prohibiting doing so. You must stop and then drive carefully, giving way to traffic already at the intersection and to pedestrians.
You must always yield to emergency vehicles (police cars, ambulances and fire engines) when they signal their approach with sirens and/or flashing lights. Stop as soon as you can safely do so. If you are at an intersection, clear it before you stop.
If a pedestrian legally entered the intersection, but did not have time to cross it, you must give way to the pedestrian.
Even if a pedestrian is at an intersection illegally, you must still give way to him. This is due to the fact that a pedestrian is much more vulnerable than a motorist.
Students entering or exiting the school bus always have the right of way.
Common Misconceptions About Right of Way Laws in South Carolina
The term "right of way" does not really mean that you have the right to move on. The law does not specify who has the right of way, only who does not. You do not have the right to claim right of way, and if you insist on using it against your own safety and the safety of others, you may be charged.
Penalties for non-compliance
In South Carolina, if you fail to yield to a pedestrian or vehicle, you will receive four demerit points attached to your driver's license. Penalties are not mandatory statewide and will vary from one jurisdiction to another.
For more information, see the South Carolina Driver's Guide, pages 87-88.
