A guide to right-of-way laws in West Virginia
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A guide to right-of-way laws in West Virginia

The key to safe driving is based on basic courtesy. But since not everyone is polite, West Virginia also codifies the rules of the road. These laws are for your safety and you need to know them. Most collisions occur because someone has not ceded the right of way to the right of way to whom it should be granted. Learn and obey West Virginia's right-of-way laws so you can be safe and not endanger anyone who shares the road with you.

Summary of West Virginia Right of Way Laws

Right-of-way laws in West Virginia can be summarized as follows:

Intersections

  • If you are entering a public road from a private road, driveway or lane, you must give way to vehicles that are already on the public road.

  • At an uncontrolled intersection, if you reach it at the same time as another driver, give way to the driver on the right.

  • When approaching an intersection with a “Give Way” sign, yield to any vehicle already at the intersection, as well as to oncoming traffic.

  • When turning left, give way to oncoming traffic.

  • When turning right, give way to vehicles and pedestrians.

Ambulances

  • Any emergency vehicle using a siren or horn and/or flashing lights must be granted right of way.

  • If you are already at an intersection, continue driving and stop as soon as you clear the intersection.

funeral processions

  • You are not required by law to give way. However, it is considered polite.

Pedestrians

  • Pedestrians at pedestrian crossings should be given the right of way.

  • Pedestrians crossing a sidewalk at right angles to a carriageway or lane must be given the right of way.

  • Blind pedestrians should always be given priority. You can recognize a blind pedestrian by the presence of a guide dog or by a metal or white cane with or without a red tip.

  • Pedestrians who cross the road against the light or in the wrong place are subject to a fine. However, in the interest of safety, you must still give way, even if the pedestrian crosses the road illegally.

Common Misconceptions About Right of Way Laws in West Virginia

Many motorists believe they are legally entitled to the right of way if the light favors them, if they are first at an intersection, and so on. However, safety is invariably more important than right of way. No one has the right of way - it must be yielded. If you “claim” the right-of-way and use it under any circumstances, you may be charged in the event of an accident.

Penalties for non-compliance

Failure to yield the right-of-way in West Virginia will result in three demerit points on your driver's license. Penalties will vary by jurisdiction.

For more information, see West Virginia Driver's License Handbook, Chapter 6, pages 49-50.

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