A guide to right-of-way laws in Maryland
Content
Right-of-way laws exist to give people the guidance they need to know how to react in the presence of other drivers or pedestrians. They determine who should have the right of way and who should give way in various driving scenarios.
No one should ever think that he automatically has the right of way. There are many scenarios that can happen in a traffic jam and the most important thing is to make sure you don't cause an accident. This means that sometimes you will have to give way.
Summary of Maryland right-of-way laws
The laws regarding the right of way in Maryland are simple and concise.
Intersections
At the intersection, you must give way to the driver who arrives first. If you are not sure, give way to another driver. If you both reach the intersection at the same time, the driver on the right will have the right of way.
If you are turning left, oncoming traffic has the right-of-way.
Anyone who is already at the intersection has the right of way.
Pedestrians
Pedestrians are required by law to obey traffic signals and can be fined in the same way as motorists if they fail to do so. However, since the driver of a car is much less vulnerable, he or she must give way to pedestrians, even if the pedestrian is not right. Basically, you don't have to worry about whether the pedestrian has the legal right to cross the road or not - all you have to do is make sure you don't run into the pedestrian. Let law enforcement worry about punishing pedestrians for crossing the street in the wrong place.
Of course, you should be especially attentive to blind pedestrians, who can be recognized by white canes, guide dogs, or the help of sighted people.
Ambulances
Police cars, fire trucks, ambulances and other emergency vehicles always have the right of way, provided they use their sirens and flashers.
If an ambulance is approaching, you are required by law to get out of the way. If you are at an intersection, continue driving and then stop on the other side. If you are not at an intersection, pull over as soon as it is safe to do so.
Common misconceptions about Maryland right-of-way laws
Drivers are always wary of accumulating points in their license and may panic over traffic violations such as failing to yield. The point is, however, that you will have to score between 8 and 11 points before you face disqualification, and being unyielding only earns you 1 point. So back off, regroup and try to drive more responsibly - you have no problems yet. However, you will be fined $90.
For more information, see Section III of the Maryland Driver's Handbook. B pp. 8-9, VII.AB p. 28.
